Noccalula Falls
Alabama • 90 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.4 miles
Trail Type
Loop
Elevation Gain
150 ft
About Noccalula Falls
Noccalula Falls is a stunning 90-foot waterfall located in Gadsden, Alabama. It is part of Noccalula Falls Park, a popular destination featuring hiking trails, a botanical garden, a petting zoo, and historical exhibits. The waterfall is named after a Cherokee legend about a young woman who leapt to her death at the falls.
The Setting
Noccalula Falls sits at 597 feet within Noccalula Falls Park, fed by the Coosa River, in the foothills of Alabama. The falls drop 90 feet.
Height: 90 feet
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 1.4-mile loop trail gains 150 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The Black Creek Trail is a well-maintained, easy loop trail that offers scenic views of the waterfall and surrounding area. The trail is mostly flat with some gentle inclines and is suitable for families and casual hikers.
What to Expect
The falls cascade 90 feet. 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 Noccalula Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $6.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Noccalula 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 and the surrounding vegetation is vibrant.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Safety Information
Stay on designated trails and avoid getting too close to the edge of the falls. The rocks can be slippery, especially after rain. Supervise children closely.
Current Water Conditions
1,130 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
20.91 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
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge COOSA RIVER AT GADSDEN STEAM PLANT NR GADSDEN, AL (6 km away).
Today
Moderate
1130 cfs
8/10Tomorrow
Moderate
1130 cfs
8/10Wed
Moderate
1130 cfs
8/10Thu
Moderate
1130 cfs
8/10Fri
Moderate
1288 cfs
6/10Sat
Moderate
1300 cfs
6/10Sun
Moderate
1333 cfs
6/10Best 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 Gadsden 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.
Through the falls the surface drops roughly 105 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. It lines up with the 90 feet the falls are usually credited with. Elevation at the pin is about 685 feet.
Water arrives on almost flat ground and leaves through a ravine that loses about 83 feet in the first 500 feet below the falls. Facing southwest, the falls sit in full sun for most of the day, best photographed early or late.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 685 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 105 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southwest
- Sunlit most of the day. Go early or late for softer light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Noccalula Falls is located at 1500 Noccalula Road, Gadsden, Alabama. It is easily accessible by car and well-signposted from major roads in the area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is ample parking available at Noccalula Falls Park, including spaces for larger vehicles and RVs.
Elevation
597 feet above sea level
Coordinates
34.041486° N, -86.021084° W
Land Management
Managed by CITY
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially on weekends. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a camera to capture the scenic views. Check the weather forecast, as the waterfall flow is more impressive after rain.
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This easy 1.4 miles hike is straightforward — comfortable trail shoes and plenty of water should do. Icy conditions are common in winter — traction cleats are a smart addition.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Kahtoola MICROspikes
Cult-favorite traction cleats that grip ice and wet rock — essential for winter waterfall hikes.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
Where to Stay
Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott Gadsden
Hampton Inn Gadsden
Comfort Suites Gadsden Attalla
Gadsden Inn and Suites
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include the Coosa River, Gadsden's downtown area, and the Imagination Place Children's Museum.
Wildlife
Visitors may encounter birds, squirrels, and other small wildlife along the trails.
Cities near Noccalula Falls
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