Great Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Great Falls
Great Falls is a scenic Alabama cascade prized for its photogenic drop and the quiet, wooded setting that surrounds it. The falls draw nature lovers and photographers looking for a compact outing with a rewarding viewpoint where the water tumbles over rocky ledges into a tree-lined pool. Access to the falls is typically via a short out-and-back hike of about 2.4 miles round trip with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain. The route is rated moderate, making it a good half-day option for hikers with some experience who want a relatively brief but satisfying trail-to-waterfall experience.
The Setting
Great Falls sits at 968 feet along the Talladega Creek, in the foothills of Alabama.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Out-and-back trail, approximately 2.4 miles round trip with about 350 feet of elevation gain; rated moderate. The route follows a well-maintained path from the trailhead to a viewing area overlooking the falls. Specific USFS trail surface, grade, and technical class are not provided in the available trail data.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Great Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $4.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Great Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the waterfall flow is typically stronger due to seasonal rainfall.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Exercise caution near the waterfall as rocks can be slippery. Avoid visiting during heavy rain or after storms, as water levels may rise rapidly.
Current Water Conditions
67 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 55 years of record
3.38 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge TALLADEGA CREEK AT ALPINE AL (23 km away).
Today
Moderate
67 cfs
8/10Tomorrow
Moderate
67 cfs
8/10Tue
Moderate
67 cfs
8/10Wed
Moderate
67 cfs
8/10Thu
Moderate
67 cfs
8/10Fri
Moderate
72 cfs
5/10Sat
Moderate
75 cfs
5/10Best window: Today — moderate flow, sunny (trip score 8/10).
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 Millerville 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.
1-meter lidar shows the creek losing roughly 70 feet through Great Falls over a long run of ledges. Elevation at the pin is about 967 feet.
The ground changes about 27 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 43 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face northeast and catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 967 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 70 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northeast
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading northeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Great Falls is located near the town of Geraldine, Alabama, within the High Falls Park area. It is accessible by car, and visitors can follow signs to the park.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at High Falls Park, which provides access to the waterfall.
Elevation
968 feet above sea level
Coordinates
33.250670° N, -86.018302° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit early in the day to avoid crowds, especially on weekends. Wear sturdy shoes as the area near the falls may be slippery. Bring water and snacks if you plan to spend time exploring the park.
Where to Stay
Postcard Cabins Talladega Valley, Outdoor Collection by Marriott Bonvoy
The Chapman House
Days Inn by Wyndham Childersburg
Super 8 by Wyndham Talladega AL
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.
Nearby Campground
Turnipseed Campground
16.9 miles away · 0 sites
Enjoy nature at its best especially during the fall when mother nature dazzles you with an array of vibrant colors. This primitive camp is located near the Cheaha Wilderness Area and offers camping and hiking. Turnipseed Camp has sanitary facilities.
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
High Falls Park offers picnic areas and additional trails for exploration. Nearby towns like Geraldine and Albertville provide dining and shopping options.
Wildlife
The area is home to various bird species, small mammals, and reptiles. Visitors may also spot fish in the nearby river.
Cities near Great Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
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