DeSoto Falls Maintenance
According to Mountain Valley News, DeSoto Falls Picnic Area will temporarily close Monday, January 24, 2022, for dredging work. The project Is expected to take approximately two months. During this time, the park and overlook will be closed to both automobile and pedestrian traffic.
The dredging work will remove years of silt and debris that has washed up along the shore of DeSoto Falls and will safeguard the area. This work will also allow the park to re-establish a beach and designated swim area for park guests.
In addition, the park also has plans to re-pave the entire parking area after the dredging project concludes. That work will also cause temporary closures.
“DeSoto Falls is one of Alabama’s true treasures, and we take our responsibility to protect it seriously,” Alabama State Parks Director Greg Lein said. “We apologize for any inconvenience this work will cause for our visitors, but it is critical to making sure the Falls is here for generations to come.”
Park officials hope to re-open the park by spring.
Lazy River Cottage Guests
Although the DeSoto Falls Picnic Area and Overlook will be closed for the next few months, guests at Lazy River Cottage will still have access to Little River from our dock. This work will not impact our guests’ view of Little River or access to the water. Our guests can still use our kayaks to enjoy Little River, however we ask that you head north (left when facing the river from the cottage) when heading out on your adventure and stay clear of the work bring done on the south side of the river from the property.
View DeSoto Falls
During the maintenance closure, DeSoto Falls can still be viewed by guests via hiking trails. Guests can walk or drive to the trailhead from the cottage. The trailhead parking area is on your right just before arriving at the cottage. We have a blog post, DeSoto Falls Hiking Trails, with pictures and lots of information about these two trailhead options to view the falls.
DeSoto Falls Overlook Trail
The DeSoto Falls Overlook trailhead is relatively easy and short trail, navigable by most. It is just under a one mile round trip hike with a rewarding stunning view of the falls to enjoy.
DeSoto Falls Basin Trails
There are two trails that lead to the DeSoto Falls Basin. These are more challenging trails, but well worth the hike if you’re up for it. Be sure to read our blog on DeSoto Falls Hiking Trails before hiking to the basin. We have lots of trail pictures and recommendations of paths.
Preservation
Although the DeSoto Falls Picnic Area and Overlook will be temporarily closed for guests, the beauty and adventure of the area is still at your fingertips during your stay at Lazy River Cottage. We look forward to the years of enjoyment the maintenance during this temporary closure will provide guests to the area. The DeSoto Falls, DeSoto State Park, and Little River areas are very special places. Great care has been taken by the State Park and private conservation groups to ensure it will be able to be enjoyed for generations to come.
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Stay With Us
We would love to host your next mountain getaway to Mentone, AL! Located on Little River by DeSoto Falls, kayak beautiful Little River during your stay at Lazy River Cottage with kayaks provided for guest use. Check out our website at www.littlerivervacay.com for more information about Lazy River Cottage in Mentone, AL, just steps from DeSoto Falls and DeSoto Falls Trailheads.
