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. Consider the DeSoto Scout Trail for your next unit activity. Within DSP, from the northern border going south, the DST has a great trailbed and travels along the bluff line. It is a steep descent to the river, so be prepared for that. Beautiful rapids and a awesome waterfall. This 3.1-mile loop trail has a difficult rating. It offers several short (less than 1 mile in length) hiking trails that take you to various overlooks e.t.c. You'll notice the trail crosses a few DeSoto Scout Trail Emergency Exit signs. Some areas of the trail have minor washouts and/or brush growth, but nothing unmanageable. In Little River Canyon National Preserve there are 4 access points along with 3 campsites close by. As my phone had no service and I used the trail map provided by the park, my experience was not what I was expecting. 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. 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. 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. Trail runners or boots with a very solid grip on them is a must. You turn between Cabins. 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. I also went in with a full battery charge, but used my GPS a lot bc I got turned around. 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. I started the trail by Indian falls and hiked in to the DeSoto Scout Trail heading south following the river. Very secluded. Trail is narrow and rocky in places with some roots but easy to follow. The Desoto Scout Trail (DST) is actually a 16 mile trail, with several different entrances. The access points will be on the Left. You just have to pay attention to where you are stepping. It’s short, and you can park right by the trail head. 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. It traverses a varied terrain and has a great wealth of biodiversity and plant life. Water is very clear and several waterfalls on the route. These exits can be ridden. I doubled back and stopped into the park store to check the trail location. Rocks are slick and covered in leaves (late October). At the end of the trail you still have 2 miles to go on a gravel/dirt road up hill. Park at the Pool, Picnic Area, Talmadge Butler Boardwalk, Lodge, or Gillam Loop Trailheads and hike towards the river. It’s just too rocky not to have one past sunset. The trail is known for its stunning views including orchids and wildflowers, as well as wildlife like wild pigs, deer, and foxes. Challenging down Exit 1 and along the River! The 13 mile Desoto Scout Trail goes along the canyon here as well. 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. Other easy access points are at Desoto Lodge, Comer Scout Reservation, Gilliam Trailhead, and the new Backcountry Parking Lot. This is a really high waterfall falling off a cliff with a rockhouse behind. Here, 5 Alabama state parks great for 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. 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. Length 3.1 miElevation gain 341 ftRoute type Loop (Dunn Road /Backcountry Road 5) The Trailhead is 2.35 miles after the turn on the left. 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. So much fun! Climbing out is easier then the descent. Several rare and beautiful plants find themselves right alongside the DST in this special riverine environment. 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). From there you wind down the road just bit until you see Cabins 21 and 22. I would bring either a map and/or GPS if you are not familiar with the trail systems. This It’s a fun trail with an unexpected descent and a beautiful river. 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. 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. I ended up just crossing the little barrier and walking down the rest of the road until I got to the Exit 2 entrance. If you use the link to google maps for directions it’s going to put you in the middle of some private properties. 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. 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. Past Indian Falls, the DST descends to the riverside. The footbed is sand river rocks, and some huge sunken boulders as this area is in the floodplain. As you continue along you will intersect the Desoto Scout Trail or DST. The thick layer of damp leaves also made it slippery. It’s VERY rocky. It is VERY steep going up. Has the trail to ourselves. DeSoto State Park 256-845-0051 Chalet trail not very well marked at all. 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. Natalie Cone. Additional Information: The DeSoto Scout Trail goes through the park and offers a challenging hiking experience. Glad we had AllTrails, again! 6.5 miles in) goes much faster. › Alabama › DeSoto State Park › DeSoto Scout Trail › Photos Photos of DeSoto Scout Trail DeSoto Scout Trail. Depending on which portion you want to hike/see, you can access from any of these entrances. Once I got to the river I don’t think the reviews I read before properly articulated exactly how rocky the trail actually is. There are several exits you can take to make it shorter. 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. 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. The DeSoto Scout Trail is a 16-mile trail that begins at the Comer Scout Reservation (north of DeSoto State Park on CR 89). 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. I plan on doing this one again. Desoto Falls Bottom and Bluff Overlook Loop. It can be reached via the Gilliam Loop Trailhead/CCC Road to Exit 1 … 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. 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. Alabama Exploration and Conquest by Hernando de Soto, 16th century. Poison Ivy Falls is between DST Exit 1 and Exit 2 along DST. I accessed today at EX4, which is off of Dunn Rd. There are some rocks on the trail too. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. Taking a slight left, you will follow the trail along the ridgeline. The trail itself was beautiful especially by the river but there are A LOT of ticks. Approximately 300 more signs are to be added before November, so it will be easier to find your way. (653k) Shawn Waddell, The DeSoto Scout Trail (DST) has had a great deal of work done this summer, and the entire trail on public lands is open. Great trail! From hiking and walking to wildlife watching (watch for lots of woodland birds), the trail offers many opportunities to connect with nature. Backcountry Trailhead/Canoe Trailhead: This provides Access to the DeSoto Scout Trail and the Little River Canoe Trail. 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. 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. Get the App. Length 0.9 miElevation gain 62 ftRoute type … Because of all the rocky points, this is a great trail to break in those new hiking boots! The signs will lead you there easily. At that point the trail follows backcountry road 5 to Edna Hill Church. DeSoto Scout Trail, located in Fort Payne, is a 16 mile scenic trail that follows the West Fork of Little River. This trail starts at Comer Scout Reservation, goes through the DeSoto State Park, and finally ends at the Little River Canyon National Preserve. 80 Reviews. Parts of this trail I would consider strenuous due to steep grade, rock scrambles, and creek crossings. I also recommend that you take snacks and plenty of water (I took 40oz and it was enough). Seasonal waterfalls, river fords and swimming stops are along the trail. This 16 mile trail located on Lookout Mountain takes you through breathtaking views of some of Alabama’s treasures. DeSoto Scout Trail-Project on Facebook The 2 mile section that belongs to Comer Scout Reservation is currently closed to the public. Explore. The Full DeSoto Scout Trail (DST) was established in the 1970’s but had a great deal of work done in 2011. 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. Located on the strenuous Desoto Scout Trail-between DST Exit 1 & 2. This large seasonal waterfall is the hardest to get to. There are several places to stop for a great view of the river below. Discover trails like DeSoto Scout Trail Alabama, find information like trail length, elevation, difficulty, activities, and nearby businesses. 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. Once on the trail the markers are prevalent. Ranger Shawn Waddell The descent to the river is steep. Blue Trail in the Black Creek Trail System. A lot of climbing and ups and downs. I highly recommend you and your dogs are treated for ticks before tackling this hike. This hike is kid friendly and dog friendly, however your furry kids must on leash. The trail head actually begins in the state park just beyond the lodge and cabins. That trails markings are crap. Then we hiked towards the lodge to see Lodge Falls, which is on a tributary just below the park lodge. 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. 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 … Camp DeSoto is a Christian summer camp for girls, ages 8-16, located on Lookout Mountain in Mentone, Alabama. The photos linked with this trail on this app do not do it justice. To get to the trailheads, take CR 89 (DeSoto Parkway) from DeSoto State Park. The Road will turn to Dirt when you enter the National Preserve. The shelter provides a … Challenging but pretty views! We then headed back to the car and drove to Gilliam Loop Trailhead to access the DeSoto Scout Trail. Fun hike with a rock bluff scramble but there’s a rope to help. 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’ll be heading back again to hit a few other trails in the park. The DeSoto Scout Trail follows the west fork of the Little River as is meanders through the mountains of NorthEast Alabama. even the dog loved it. You will come to the CCC Shelter. Happy New Years. 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. Very heavy shade. Just log your hikes in the Trail Trekker log and record the date for each trail listed. The entire trail is marked with "DST" signs, except within DSP, where it is marked with a yellow blaze. In the beginning I meant to say that you turn between Cabins 21 & 22 on to a dirt road. They are marked as "EX4" "EX5" "EX6" and then the "Backcountry Trailhead", Little River Canyon National Preserve 256 845 9605 Some areas are not well marked, and can be a bit confusing, but in general it is difficult to get lost. It’s very short, and you can park right by the trail head. Alabama Trails Bing Maps has a collection of great trails with directions to trail heads as well as photos. The Civilian Conservation Corps created DeSoto State Park in the 1930s protecting the northern portion of Little River. I did only part of this trail and it’s amazing. Hikers on DeSoto Scout Trail follow the cascades of the west fork of the Little River. Showing results 1 - 90 of 147. Be careful while driving as there are lots of kiddos riding bikes . This is just a section on the Scout Trail witch is 13 miles long (I think). A brand new patch is available for those who complete the trail and can be ordered through the Scout Office in Birmingham. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. 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. The whole trail is approximately 16 miles long. Turn Left on CR 476 (oakhill road) Go about 2 miles... pass oakhill curch, then turn left on Dunn Road. Hiked the loop clockwise. It parallels a road that takes you down to a CCC bridge, if you want to add some distance. A 4.5-mile segment (one way) runs through Little River Canyon National Preserve as it follows the West Fork of the Little River. 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. a very awesome trail I have son the loop. No loop. 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. DeSoto State Park is known for the waterfalls, both big and small. You pull all the way through the parking lot of the Lodge, and turn right out the back end of the lot. The complete trail is approximately 16 miles long. Overall, the DeSoto Scout Trail is awesome! By far, my favorite trail at D.S.P. Real fun trail with a fun mixture of paths. The section past Straight Creek Bridge between Exit 4 and 5 (approx. The canyon cut by the Little River through the sandstone has an average depth of 600 feet. 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). DeSoto.StatePark@dcnr.alabama.gov 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. 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. I was glad I tossed my extra charging block in my day pack. We took Exit 1 down which was a great choice as Exit 2 was a much easier climb back out! The area I explored parts of were the violet trail. Great weekend for a hike today (7april19). 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’. There are many access points at DeSoto State Park along with camping. ***For some reason this format won’t let me go back and edit . 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). DeSoto Scout Trail Complex 2-8-2002 (ALL MAPS COMBINED).kml . I started at the trailhead in Desoto State Park. Lovely views of the river/canyon. The trail is primarily used for hiking and nature trips. Sign completed form and turn in to DeSoto State Park Country Store or Lodge to receive your patch! Exit 2 is steep but not as steep as E1. The most well-known is 107-foot-high DeSoto Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in Alabama. Check out the maps on the DeSoto Scout Trail facebook page. Gorgeous river and rocks. Going back to do the how trail from DSP to 35falls can't wait. This trail is bi-directional loop trail. Also there is a a little waterfall. Not an easy trail but rewarding. 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. At Camp DeSoto girls are invited to experience the fun of summer camp as part of a nurturing Christian community. Several waterfalls. Totally by myself self on this one. The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. I took the Exit 1 route out. Most of the other trails in the park focus on Little River, Lost Falls Trail … You never know when you'll run into some water along the trail. Lodge Falls is an easy waterfall to spot just behind the Lodge. I am in moderate shape, and this trail is totally doable and enjoyable. This trail is a great hike the whole family is sure to enjoy. The trail by the river was completely underwater and impassable. The trail can be accessed within the park from the Gillam Loop Trail head near the Lodge. Show more photos. DESOTO SCOUT TRAIL, Greater Alabama Council, Birmingham, AL ODUM SCOUT TRAIL, Greater Alabama Council, Birmingham, AL The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. They are marked as "EX4" "EX5" "EX6" and then the "Backcountry Trailhead". The Little River Canyon National Preserve is located in the foot hills of the Appalachian Mountains near Fort Payne Alabama. The section inside DSP is quite rough and slow-going with lots of rocks and obstacles to traverse. The Road will turn to dirt when you enter the National Preserve. It meanders around a few creeks and waterfalls that flow into the River. 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. Check out the DeSoto Scout Trail! The access points will be on the Left. The trail along the the river has rocky spots that have to be navigated. 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. This historic trail starts at Comer Scout Reservation, continues through Desoto State Park, and into Little River Canyon National Preserve. It follows the beautiful West Fork of Little River and continues downstream to Highway 35. it was as great. DeSoto's Alabama Trails: Written by Donald E. Sheppard Drawings: Cheryl Lucente INTRODUCTION TO THIS POINT S.E. 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