took the entire family ages 6,9,12,36,32. we all are different levels of fit and was able to do this with ease. I would hike this clockwise to go down the small bluff than go up it. Past Indian Falls, the DST descends to the riverside. The trail itself was beautiful especially by the river but there are A LOT of ticks. The trail has not been fully open in way over a decade, so we are excited to see the public using it and enjoying it again. DeSoto State Park is known for the waterfalls, both big and small. This hike is kid friendly and dog friendly, however your furry kids must on leash. A lot of climbing and ups and downs. Check out the maps on the DeSoto Scout Trail facebook page. we started at the DeSoto Loge between cabin 21 and 22 on the Gilliam trail amd took exit 2 to the DST that is about 6.5 miles. DeSoto Scout Trail is a moderate hike in DeSoto State Park Alabama, near Chattanooga. The DeSoto Scout Trail follows the west fork of the Little River as is meanders through the mountains of NorthEast Alabama. Other easy access points are at Desoto Lodge, Comer Scout Reservation, Gilliam Trailhead, and the new Backcountry Parking Lot. I followed the DST until I hit exit 1 and switched over to the Gillam loop trail to head back north to where I parked. Additional Information: The DeSoto Scout Trail goes through the park and offers a challenging hiking experience. The trail is known for its stunning views including orchids and wildflowers, as well as wildlife like wild pigs, deer, and foxes. Seasonal waterfalls, river fords and swimming stops are along the trail. Not an easy trail but rewarding. Great trail, but we only made it from Indian Falls to a little past Lodge Falls (heading downstream) before having to backtrack and go up to the Green Trail at Lodge Falls. DeSoto Scout Trail is a 3.1 mile moderately trafficked loop trail located near Fort Payne, Alabama that features a waterfall and is rated as moderate. Lodge Falls is an easy waterfall to spot just behind the Lodge. A 4.5-mile segment (one way) runs through Little River Canyon National Preserve as it follows the West Fork of the Little River. You will come to the CCC Shelter. it was as great. Poison Ivy Falls is between DST Exit 1 and Exit 2 along DST. Be careful while driving as there are lots of kiddos riding bikes . A few areas could be marked better as I ended up off trail a few times but I didn’t go far before I realized it. Here, 5 Alabama state parks great for hiking. This 16 mile trail located on Lookout Mountain takes you through breathtaking views of some of Alabama’s treasures. This It’s a fun trail with an unexpected descent and a beautiful river. You turn between Cabins. I plan on doing this one again. The DeSoto Scout Trail (DST) has had a great deal of work done this summer, and the entire trail on public lands is open. There are many access points at DeSoto State Park along with camping. The trail is open from DeSoto State Park(DSP) to the new "Backcountry Trailhead" on Backcountry Road 5, in Little River Canyon National Preserve (LRCNP). I was glad I tossed my extra charging block in my day pack. Just log your hikes in the Trail Trekker log and record the date for each trail listed. The signs will lead you there easily. Some areas are not well marked, and can be a bit confusing, but in general it is difficult to get lost. Chalet trail not very well marked at all. This is just a section on the Scout Trail witch is 13 miles long (I think). This is the only video that I could find with a decent view of Shigley's Hole on the DeSoto Scout Trail in Little River National Preserve. The Little River Canyon National Preserve is located in the foot hills of the Appalachian Mountains near Fort Payne Alabama. This is one of the non-technical trails at DeSoto State Park. The most well-known is 107-foot-high DeSoto Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in Alabama. The 13 mile Desoto Scout Trail goes along the canyon here as well. Park at the Pool, Picnic Area, Talmadge Butler Boardwalk, Lodge, or Gillam Loop Trailheads and hike towards the river. Birmingham: Desoto Scout Trail This easy 3.4-mile dayhike skirts the swift waters of the Little River, then gently climbs to clifftop views of a deep river canyon in DeSoto State Park. The whole trail is approximately 16 miles long. At the end of the trail you still have 2 miles to go on a gravel/dirt road up hill. Explore. DeSoto Scout Trail-Project on Facebook It’s very short, and you can park right by the trail head. This trail is bi-directional loop trail. The photos linked with this trail on this app do not do it justice. I took the Exit 1 route out. In the beginning I meant to say that you turn between Cabins 21 & 22 on to a dirt road. The trail head actually begins in the state park just beyond the lodge and cabins. It traverses a varied terrain and has a great wealth of biodiversity and plant life. Hiked the loop clockwise. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. Natalie Cone. The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. Showing results 1 - 90 of 147. Birmingham: DeSoto Scout Trail This easy 3.4-mile dayhike skirts the swift waters of the Little River, then gently climbs to clifftop views of a deep river canyon in DeSoto State Park. I am in moderate shape, and this trail is totally doable and enjoyable. The thick layer of damp leaves also made it slippery. But the trail is open from DeSoto State Park (DSP) Northern Border at CR 165 “Howard’s Mill” to the new “Miller Branch Trailhead” / Backcountry Road 5, in Little River Canyon National Preserve (LRCNP). Several waterfalls. (Dunn Road /Backcountry Road 5) The Trailhead is 2.35 miles after the turn on the left. I accessed today at EX4, which is off of Dunn Rd. From there you wind down the road just bit until you see Cabins 21 and 22. The area I explored parts of were the violet trail. This large seasonal waterfall is the hardest to get to. Beautiful rapids and a awesome waterfall. Nice trail, however it can be a little rough to get down to the river plus there are many rocks you have to climb over. The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. The trail can be accessed within the park from the Gillam Loop Trail head near the Lodge. The footbed is sand river rocks, and some huge sunken boulders as this area is in the floodplain. If you do this hike later in the day, and there is a chance you might still be in the woods come night fall you will need a head light. Alabama Exploration and Conquest by Hernando de Soto, 16th century. Check out the DeSoto Scout Trail! The DeSoto Scout Trail, located within DeSoto State Park, near Fort Payne, Alabama, is accessible year-round and offers a variety of recreational activities such as hiking, birding, trail running and so much more. This hike was not difficult, and it was similar to the hiking in Oklahoma around Stillwater, the change in incline was less than I experience in Kansas walking to the river from my house. DeSoto Scout Trail is a recently revitalized, 16 mile scenic trail that follows the West Fork of Little River.The DeSoto Scout Trail starts at Comer Scout Reservation in the North, goes through DeSoto State Park and into Little River Canyon National Pr … Most of the other trails in the park focus on Little River, Lost Falls Trail … The length of the trail is marked with metal “DST” signs, except within DSP, where it is marked with a yellow blaze and an occasional old yellow wooden DST signs. Get the App. The Civilian Conservation Corps created DeSoto State Park in the 1930s protecting the northern portion of Little River. No loop. At the top of Exit 1 you have to do a little rock climbing, but there is a black rope attached to a tree on top of the bigger rock to help pull yourself up. I did only part of this trail and it’s amazing. Ranger Shawn Waddell Discover trails like DeSoto Scout Trail Alabama, find information like trail length, elevation, difficulty, activities, and nearby businesses. DeSoto State Park: Laurel Falls Trail, CCC Quarry Trail, and DeSoto Scout Trail (CCC Trail Shelter to Lodge), Fort Payne, Alabama 6/3/2016 0 Comments As one of Alabama's first state parks, DeSoto State Park was developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the 1930s, and much of their work can still be seen throughout the park today. Rocks are slick and covered in leaves (late October). shawn_d_waddell@nps.gov, DeSoto State Park is located on CR 89 (DeSoto Parkway) nd can be accessed by the Valley Head or HWY 35/Fort Payne exits on I59. Within DSP, from the northern border going south, the DST has a great trailbed and travels along the bluff line. At Camp DeSoto girls are invited to experience the fun of summer camp as part of a nurturing Christian community. If you don’t hike with some regularity I would suggest going down to the river using Exit 1 and coming back up using Exit 2. You never know when you'll run into some water along the trail. Once on the trail the markers are prevalent. The shelter provides a … Challenging down Exit 1 and along the River! Consider the DeSoto Scout Trail for your next unit activity. It’s short, and you can park right by the trail head. Overall, the DeSoto Scout Trail is awesome! DeSoto Scout Trail Complex 2-8-2002 (ALL MAPS COMBINED).kml . Great trail! The DeSoto Scout Trail is the park's longest trail, connecting Little River Canyon National Preserve and DeSoto State Park through the Wildlife Management Area (backcountry). The trail is primarily used for hiking and nature trips. Water is very clear and several waterfalls on the route. There are several places to stop for a great view of the river below. I doubled back and stopped into the park store to check the trail location. To get to the trailheads, take CR 89 (DeSoto Parkway) from DeSoto State Park. In Little River Canyon National Preserve there are 4 access points along with 3 campsites close by. DeSoto Scout Trail is a recently revitalized, 16 mile scenic trail that follows the West Fork of Little River.The DeSoto Scout Trail starts at Comer Scout Reservation in the North, goes through DeSoto State Park and into Little River Canyon National Preserve, where the majority of the trail is located. On the DST, It’s a lot of bouldering along the river with plenty of slippery rocks but it’s a nice atmosphere with the sounds of the rushing water. You pull all the way through the parking lot of the Lodge, and turn right out the back end of the lot. This is best accessed by Dekalb 89 (DeSoto Parkway) to Dekalb 476 (Oakhill Road) After 1.58 miles, take the second left past Oakhill Church. Trail is narrow and rocky in places with some roots but easy to follow. A brand new patch is available for those who complete the trail and can be ordered through the Scout Office in Birmingham. The section past Straight Creek Bridge between Exit 4 and 5 (approx. Happy New Years. There are some rocks on the trail too. The trail by the river was completely underwater and impassable. ***For some reason this format won’t let me go back and edit . Going back to do the how trail from DSP to 35falls can't wait. You just have to pay attention to where you are stepping. If you use the link to google maps for directions it’s going to put you in the middle of some private properties. The 2 mile section that belongs to Comer Scout Reservation is currently closed to the public. It is VERY steep going up. I started at the trailhead in Desoto State Park. It’s VERY rocky. DESOTO SCOUT TRAIL, Greater Alabama Council, Birmingham, AL ODUM SCOUT TRAIL, Greater Alabama Council, Birmingham, AL The Desoto Scout Trail (DST) is actually a 16 mile trail, with several different entrances. 6.5 miles in) goes much faster. Hike the designated 22 miles of trails in DeSoto, (whether on your own or in a group, no time limit) and collect your prize, a Trail Trekkers Patch. Challenging but pretty views! The trail network in the park leads you past several waterfalls, while visiting any time between March and November should give you a chance to see spectacular wildflowers in bloom. › Alabama › DeSoto State Park › DeSoto Scout Trail › Photos Photos of DeSoto Scout Trail DeSoto Scout Trail. I started the trail by Indian falls and hiked in to the DeSoto Scout Trail heading south following the river. We took Exit 1 down which was a great choice as Exit 2 was a much easier climb back out! I’ll be heading back again to hit a few other trails in the park. This 3.1-mile loop trail has a difficult rating. great places to get in to cool off too. Alabama may not have a national park in its borders, but its state parks are full of opportunities to explore. DeSoto Scout Trail, located in Fort Payne, is a 16 mile scenic trail that follows the West Fork of Little River. The DeSoto Scout Trail is a 16-mile trail that begins at the Comer Scout Reservation (north of DeSoto State Park on CR 89). Fun hike with a rock bluff scramble but there’s a rope to help. The mountain is Alabama’s highest point at an elevation of 2,407 feet above sea level, while the trail entwines itself around the mountain and extends towards the south to a place known as the ‘High Falls’. It parallels a road that takes you down to a CCC bridge, if you want to add some distance. The DST intersects with many other backcountry trails, as well as other trail systems as it enters Desoto State Park and Little River Canyon Park, respectively, so be aware you don’t get off course. It is a steep descent to the river, so be prepared for that. By far, my favorite trail at D.S.P. I ended up just crossing the little barrier and walking down the rest of the road until I got to the Exit 2 entrance. even the dog loved it. DeSoto.StatePark@dcnr.alabama.gov Hikers on DeSoto Scout Trail follow the cascades of the west fork of the Little River. The trail along the the river has rocky spots that have to be navigated. Taking a slight left, you will follow the trail along the ridgeline. These exits can be ridden. Exit 2 is steep but not as steep as E1. 80 Reviews. Gorgeous river and rocks. This trail connects hikers with several locations in Northeast Alabama, from a long-time favorite, the Desoto State Park to the deepest canyon east of the Mississippi, the Little River Canyon National Preserve. As you continue along you will intersect the Desoto Scout Trail or DST. Several rare and beautiful plants find themselves right alongside the DST in this special riverine environment. Then we hiked towards the lodge to see Lodge Falls, which is on a tributary just below the park lodge. This trail starts at Comer Scout Reservation, goes through the DeSoto State Park, and finally ends at the Little River Canyon National Preserve. Hiking | Birmingham: Desoto Scout Trail | This easy 3.4-mile dayhike skirts the swift waters of the Little River, then gently climbs to clifftop views of a deep river canyon in DeSoto State Park. So much fun! The access points will be on the Left. As my phone had no service and I used the trail map provided by the park, my experience was not what I was expecting. They are marked as "EX4" "EX5" "EX6" and then the "Backcountry Trailhead", Little River Canyon National Preserve 256 845 9605 The access points will be on the Left. I would bring either a map and/or GPS if you are not familiar with the trail systems. Located on the strenuous Desoto Scout Trail-between DST Exit 1 & 2. I also went in with a full battery charge, but used my GPS a lot bc I got turned around. The Road will turn to dirt when you enter the National Preserve. Backcountry Trailhead/Canoe Trailhead: This provides Access to the DeSoto Scout Trail and the Little River Canoe Trail. Length 3.1 miElevation gain 341 ftRoute type Loop We then headed back to the car and drove to Gilliam Loop Trailhead to access the DeSoto Scout Trail. Blue Trail in the Black Creek Trail System. DeSoto's Alabama Trails: Written by Donald E. Sheppard Drawings: Cheryl Lucente INTRODUCTION TO THIS POINT S.E. Camp DeSoto is a Christian summer camp for girls, ages 8-16, located on Lookout Mountain in Mentone, Alabama. Length 0.9 miElevation gain 62 ftRoute type … Once I got to the river I don’t think the reviews I read before properly articulated exactly how rocky the trail actually is. Alabama Trails I had high expectations for this trail and was disappointed. Real fun trail with a fun mixture of paths. The section inside DSP is quite rough and slow-going with lots of rocks and obstacles to traverse. Show more photos. It’s just too rocky not to have one past sunset. That trails markings are crap. This trail is a great hike the whole family is sure to enjoy. There are several exits you can take to make it shorter. Climbing out is easier then the descent. Glad we had AllTrails, again! The descent to the river is steep. It can be reached via the Gilliam Loop Trailhead/CCC Road to Exit 1 … To get to the "Backcountry Trailhead" from DeSoto State Park, turn Left on CR 476 (oakhill road) Go about 2 miles... pass oakhill curch, then take the second left on Dunn Road. Desoto Falls Bottom and Bluff Overlook Loop. It offers several short (less than 1 mile in length) hiking trails that take you to various overlooks e.t.c. Sign completed form and turn in to DeSoto State Park Country Store or Lodge to receive your patch! The Road will turn to Dirt when you enter the National Preserve. DeSoto State Park 256-845-0051 Great weekend for a hike today (7april19). Turn Left on CR 476 (oakhill road) Go about 2 miles... pass oakhill curch, then turn left on Dunn Road. DeSoto Falls Bluff View Trail is a 0.9 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Mentone, Alabama that features a waterfall and is good for all skill levels. Lost Falls Trail Takes you to Laurel Falls, Lost Falls and Azalea Cascade Description: Located in DeSoto State Park, Lost Falls Trail is a combination of several different trails each marked with their own color. The canyon cut by the Little River through the sandstone has an average depth of 600 feet. The complete trail is approximately 16 miles long. Bing Maps has a collection of great trails with directions to trail heads as well as photos. Because of all the rocky points, this is a great trail to break in those new hiking boots! From hiking and walking to wildlife watching (watch for lots of woodland birds), the trail offers many opportunities to connect with nature. This trail starts at the Comer Scout Reservation to the north of the park and ends at the Little River Canyon to the south of the park. Some areas of the trail have minor washouts and/or brush growth, but nothing unmanageable. Very heavy shade. Parts of this trail I would consider strenuous due to steep grade, rock scrambles, and creek crossings. At that point the trail follows backcountry road 5 to Edna Hill Church. If you want more of a physical challenge, six miles of the 16-mile DeSoto Scout Trail wind their way through the park, eventually leading south to Little River Canyon National Preserve. DeSoto Scout Trail is a 3.1 mile moderately trafficked loop trail located near Fort Payne, Alabama that features a waterfall and is rated as moderate. a very awesome trail I have son the loop. A solid walking stick or trekking poles is also a must for this trail. It follows the beautiful West Fork of Little River and continues downstream to Highway 35. Totally by myself self on this one. They are marked as "EX4" "EX5" "EX6" and then the "Backcountry Trailhead". This project is made possible through a partnership between The Alabama Trails Commission, The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs and The University of Alabama Center for Economic Development. You'll notice the trail crosses a few DeSoto Scout Trail Emergency Exit signs. Very secluded. I highly recommend you and your dogs are treated for ticks before tackling this hike. (653k) Shawn Waddell, The Full DeSoto Scout Trail (DST) was established in the 1970’s but had a great deal of work done in 2011. Depending on which portion you want to hike/see, you can access from any of these entrances. Also there is a a little waterfall. This is a really high waterfall falling off a cliff with a rockhouse behind. Approximately 300 more signs are to be added before November, so it will be easier to find your way. This historic trail starts at Comer Scout Reservation, continues through Desoto State Park, and into Little River Canyon National Preserve. At that point the trail mostly follows Backcountry Road 5 to the Exit at Edna Hill Church parking area on CR 295, alternatively there is a parking lot at the Backcountry Road 5 entrance that is marked for horse trailers is also available. DeSoto Scout Trail is a recently revitalized, 16 mile scenic trail that follows the West Fork of Little River.The DeSoto Scout Trail starts at Comer Scout Reservation in the North, goes through DeSoto State Park and into Little River Canyon National Preserve, where the majority of the trail is located. 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