Cedar Creek Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (2)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Cedar Creek Falls
Cedar Creek Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in the Bankhead National Forest in Alabama. It is known for its serene surroundings and the beautiful cascade of water into a clear pool below. The area is popular among hikers and nature enthusiasts.
The Setting
Cedar Creek Falls sits at 30 feet along the Chickasaw Creek, in the coastal lowlands of Alabama.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Cedar Creek Falls is relatively short and easy, making it accessible for most visitors. It winds through a forested area with gentle terrain, leading to the waterfall. The path may be muddy or slippery after rain, so proper footwear is recommended.
What to Expect
Swimming is permitted. Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Cedar Creek Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Cedar Creek Falls?
✅ Swimming is allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the waterfall is typically at its fullest due to seasonal rainfall.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
The rocks around the waterfall can be slippery, so visitors should exercise caution when exploring near the falls. Always stay on marked trails and avoid climbing on wet rocks. Be aware of potential flash flooding during heavy rain.
Current Water Conditions
Based on a USGS gauge 18 miles away
54 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 74 years of record
3.21 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual for this time of year.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a regional waterway. Conditions at the falls may differ, especially after local rain.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge CHICKASAW CREEK NEAR KUSHLA AL (29 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
54 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
52 cfs
5/10Thu
Low
62 cfs
3/10Fri
Low
65 cfs
3/10Sat
Low
60 cfs
3/10Sun
Low
61 cfs
3/10Mon
Low
59 cfs
3/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early February to early April, peaking in February.
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 Movico hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
Here the descent is spread out: 1-meter lidar measures about 17 feet of drop through Cedar Creek Falls, stretched along the creek rather than stacked in one wall. The brink sits at about 29 feet above sea level.
Both above and below, the ground is gentle; the falls are the one abrupt step in an otherwise easy-going creek. The falls face northwest and stay mostly shaded, with soft, even light all day.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 29 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 16 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northwest
- Mostly shaded, so the light stays soft and even all day.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading northwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Cedar Creek Falls is located within the Bankhead National Forest. Visitors can access the falls via a trailhead near the Sipsey Wilderness area. Specific directions may vary, so it is recommended to use a GPS or consult local maps.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available near the trailhead, but spaces may be limited during peak seasons. Visitors should arrive early to secure a spot.
Elevation
30 feet above sea level
Coordinates
31.056568° N, -88.074168° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early to avoid crowds and secure parking. Wear sturdy shoes, especially if visiting after rain, as the trail can be slippery. Bring water and snacks, and pack out all trash to help preserve the natural beauty of the area.
Where to Stay
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Saraland, AL
La Quinta by Wyndham Mobile Satsuma / Saraland
Hampton Inn & Suites Saraland Mobile
Sleep Inn & Suites North Mobile Saraland
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
The Sipsey Wilderness area, also located in Bankhead National Forest, offers additional hiking trails and waterfalls to explore.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Visitors should be cautious of snakes, especially during warmer months.
Cities near Cedar Creek Falls
Other waterfalls named Cedar Creek Falls
2 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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