Little Falls, formerly called Martha Falls, is a low ledge waterfall reached by the Little Falls Trail and its 127 steps. Flow changes with the weather and the season, so confirm conditions and access with the managing agency before you go.
Details
- County: DeKalb
- Type of place: Waterfall
- Type: Ledge falls
- Getting there: Little Falls Trail, about 127 steps
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Safety: No lifeguards. Water can rise quickly after upstream storms. Wear a life jacket and do not jump or dive
- Access: Public, in a national preserve
- Managed by: National Park Service
Find it
Part of Little River Canyon National Preserve in DeKalb County. Use that page for directions, hours and the map.
Source: National Park Service (https://www.nps.gov/liri/planyourvisit/water-safety.htm). Heights and distances vary between sources. Last checked Nov. 11, 2026.
Ask Buck
Questions about Little Falls at Little River Canyon
AboutWhat is Little Falls at Little River Canyon?
Little Falls, formerly called Martha Falls, is a low ledge waterfall reached by the Little Falls Trail and its 127 steps.
Getting thereWhere is Little Falls at Little River Canyon?
Little Falls at Little River Canyon is in DeKalb County, Alabama.
Getting there: Little Falls Trail, about 127 steps.
Things to doWhat can you do at Little Falls at Little River Canyon?
Little Falls at Little River Canyon is listed for hiking, photography and waterfalls. Each activity links to more places across North Alabama.
Things to doWhat kind of trail is Little Falls at Little River Canyon?
Listed details: difficulty Moderate.
Before you goIs Little Falls at Little River Canyon open to the public, and who manages it?
Access is listed as “Public, in a national preserve”. Little Falls at Little River Canyon is managed by National Park Service.
Rules, hours and closures are set by the manager and can change, so confirm before you go.
Before you goAre there rules or safety notes for Little Falls at Little River Canyon?
Safety: No lifeguards. Water can rise quickly after upstream storms. Wear a life jacket and do not jump or dive.
Things to doWhen does Little Falls at Little River Canyon flow best?
Little Falls at Little River Canyon is listed as a waterfall. Flow depends on recent rainfall and can be a trickle in dry spells, and wet rock is slippery, so go after rain and watch your footing.
Before you goHow do you check conditions and closures at Little Falls at Little River Canyon?
Contact National Park Service for current conditions, closures and rules.
This page lists public information. It does not replace posted signs or the manager's notices. Hours, fees, permits and closures change, so confirm with the managing agency before you go.
TrustHow accurate is this listing for Little Falls at Little River Canyon?
Source: National Park Service (https://www.nps.gov/liri/planyourvisit/water-safety.htm). Heights and distances vary between sources. Last checked Nov. 11, 2026.
This page was last updated on November 11, 2026.