LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Quarter Creek Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainDifficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Quarter Creek Falls
Quarter Creek Falls is a quiet, lesser-known waterfall tucked into a forested stretch of Alabama that rewards visitors with a peaceful cascade and plenty of solitude. The approach keeps the vibe low-key — it’s a short, moderate hike rather than a long trek, making the falls a great option for day hikers and photographers who want a scenic stop without a full-day commitment. Expect a natural, wooded setting and a calm atmosphere at the water’s edge. The walk to the falls covers about 2.4 miles round trip with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain, so plan for a moderately paced outing. The route winds through trees and gentle terrain but can get muddy or slippery after rain, so grippy footwear is a good idea. There are no campgrounds within 10 km of the falls, so most visitors treat this as a half-day destination before returning to nearby towns or established camp areas farther away.
The Setting
Quarter Creek Falls sits at 787 feet along the Bear Creek, in the foothills of Alabama.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Out-and-back trail, 2.4 miles round trip with approximately 350 feet of elevation gain; rated moderate. The trail follows a wooded route with generally gentle grades and natural tread; specific USFS trail surface, grade, or class data are not provided in the available information. Footing can become muddy and slippery after rain, so wear appropriate footwear and allow extra time for wet conditions.
What to Expect
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 Quarter Creek Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Quarter Creek Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and fall are the best times to visit, as the waterfall flow is typically stronger after seasonal rains, and the weather is more comfortable for hiking.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall. Avoid visiting during heavy rain or immediately after, as the trail may become hazardous. Cell phone reception may be limited in the area.
Current Water Conditions
7 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 24 years of record
1.70 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle.
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 BEAR CREEK NEAR HACKLEBURG AL (14 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
7 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
7 cfs
5/10Wed
Barely Flowing
8 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
8 cfs
5/10Fri
Low
9 cfs
3/10Sat
Moderate
9 cfs
4/10Sun
Moderate
8 cfs
4/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early March to mid April, peaking in April.
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
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 60 feet through Quarter Creek Falls over a long run of ledges. Elevation at the pin is about 797 feet.
The ground is already steep on the way in, falling about 88 feet in the 500 feet above the pin, and levels out below the falls. The falls face southwest and 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
- 797 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 60 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
Quarter Creek Falls is located in a remote area of Alabama. Access may require navigating unpaved roads, so a high-clearance vehicle is recommended. Exact directions should be confirmed through local resources or trail guides.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is limited and may consist of roadside pull-offs or small gravel lots near the trailhead.
Elevation
787 feet above sea level
Coordinates
34.283154° N, -87.619470° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes, as the trail may be uneven or muddy. Bring insect repellent, especially in warmer months. Check weather conditions before visiting, as rain can make the trail slippery.
Where to Stay
Best Western Plus Russellville Hotel & Suites
Days Inn by Wyndham Hamilton
Americas Best Value Inn Hamilton
Pet-Friendly Haleyville Cabin Rental with Kayaks!
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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Nearby Campground
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Other natural attractions in the area include hiking trails and scenic overlooks. Check local guides for more details.
Wildlife
The area is home to various bird species, small mammals, and reptiles. Be cautious of snakes, especially in warmer months.
Cities near Quarter Creek Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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