Where? DeSoto Falls in DeSoto State Park (North Alabama) 901-905 County Road 613 Mentone, AL 35984 34.5490° N, 85.5905° W

How long is the trail? You can park at the top of the falls and walk right up to the top of the falls. There are stairs that take you next to the falls and allow for close viewing. There is a “lake” at the very top of the falls. There is a pull off on the right side of the road when you are almost to the top of the falls. This pull-off has a trail that takes you to beautiful views of the falls. It also takes you to Welsh Cave. Both trails are a little over a mile each round trip.

How hard are we talkin? If you are going for the views of the falls, the trail for this is super easy and flat.

Can I swim there? You can swim at the bottom of the falls. I’ve seen people in kayaks, canoes and just swimming. It’s far away from the shore so not a perfect “swimming hole” type spot. You’d have to paddle out to the falls from the shore. The people I’ve seen swimming were likely intoxicated or bound by a double dog dare.

Any other details? The top of the falls isn’t the best spot for viewing. DeSoto Falls is huge and you only get a side view from the top parking lot. I highly recommend the dirt pull out before you get to the parking lot. There are a couple of trails you can follow. Leave no trace: People are so trashy. Please don’t leave trash in pretty places. Pick it up and take it with you!