Are there fees or permits required for Butler Falls?

No, there are no fees required to visit Butler Falls.

Is swimming allowed at Butler Falls?

No, swimming is not allowed at Butler Falls.

Live Conditions · 23 ft³/s · About average

Butler Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Butler Falls?

No, dogs are not allowed at Butler Falls.

Alabama

By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026

Also For 1 other waterfall also named Butler Falls, see below

Photo Credits (2)

SeeMidTN.com (aka Brent) CC BY-NC 2.0 · Flickr

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

2.4 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

350 ft

About Butler Falls

Butler Falls is a small, scenic waterfall set in Alabama woodlands, prized for its peaceful cascades and a sense of solitude. Because it doesn’t draw big crowds, the falls are a great destination for photographers or hikers wanting a quiet natural escape — the short drop and surrounding forest create an intimate, restorative setting. The falls are reached by a moderate out-and-back hike of about 2.4 miles with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain, so it’s an easy half‑day outing for most reasonably fit hikers. The nearest developed campground is McDougle Camp, approximately 19.4 km (12 miles) away, so plan to bring water and supplies for your visit.

The Setting

Butler Falls sits at 810 feet along the Sipsey Fork, in the foothills of Alabama.

Nearby Falls Worth Visiting

Kinlock Falls (15 ft) lies 3.1 miles to the east.

Kinlock Falls

Trail & Hike Details

The Approach

The moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back trail gains 350 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.

Trail Description

Trail: 2.4-mile out-and-back (total distance) with approximately 350 ft of elevation gain. Difficulty: Moderate. The route features steady climbs rather than steep sustained grades, making for a rewarding short hike to the falls. Detailed surface and formal trail-class data aren’t well documented, so expect natural footpaths and some uneven terrain; sturdy footwear, a map or GPS, and water are recommended. The hike is best treated as a short backcountry outing rather than a fully developed trail system.

What to Expect

Visitors can expect a serene and natural setting with a small waterfall surrounded by forested areas. The site may be less developed, offering a more rustic experience.

Accessibility

The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.

Frequently Asked Questions

🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Butler Falls?

❌ Dogs are not allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🆖 No fees required

🏊 Is There Swimming at Butler Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall

Spring and fall are typically the best times to visit, as the weather is mild and water flow is often at its peak.

Seasonal Access

The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.

Safety Information

Visitors should be cautious of slippery rocks, uneven terrain, and potential wildlife encounters. Cell phone service may be limited in the area.

Current Water Conditions

Updated about 3 hours ago Barely Flowing

23 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

About average for this time of year

Very Low Low Normal High Very High

7 10 32 75

Based on 59 years of record

2.84 ft

Water depth at gauge

80°F

Comfortable

Pleasant for swimming

7-Day Discharge Trend

What does this mean for your visit?

Flow is about average for this time of year. The water is a comfortable 80 degrees F, pleasant for swimming.

About This Gauge

This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.

SIPSEY FORK NEAR GRAYSON AL

USGS 02450250

9.1 miles from waterfall

Drainage: 92 sq mi

Altitude: 540 ft

7-Day Flow Outlook

Based on the USGS gauge SIPSEY FORK NEAR GRAYSON AL (15 km away).

Moderate confidence

Barely Flowing right now

23 cfs

↓ Falling

Today

Barely Flowing

23 cfs

5/10

Tomorrow

Low

25 cfs

3/10

Thu

Low

26 cfs

3/10

Fri

Low

23 cfs

3/10

Sat

Low

24 cfs

3/10

Sun

Low

29 cfs

3/10

Mon

Low

31 cfs

3/10

Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).

Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid February to late March, peaking in March.

How we calculate this

This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.

Know when to go.

Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Haleyville hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.

Weather Forecast

Location & Access

Getting There

The exact location of Butler Falls is not widely documented. Visitors are advised to research local maps and consult with nearby park services or locals for directions.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking availability is unclear. Visitors should prepare for limited or informal parking options near the site.

Elevation

810 feet above sea level

Coordinates

34.305931° N, -87.556691° W

Visitor Tips & Gear

Bring a map or GPS device as the location may not be well-marked. Wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for uneven terrain. Check local weather conditions before visiting.

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With 2.4 miles and 350 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.