The Fall Off
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
About The Fall Off
Tucked away in Alabama, The Fall Off rewards hikers willing to seek a quieter waterfall experience. The approach is a moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back hike with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain, making it a good half-day outing for hikers who enjoy a little effort for scenic payoff. While not widely documented in mainstream trail guides, the route offers a peaceful, less-crowded alternative to busier falls in the region and is ideal for those who like exploring off-the-beaten-path spots. Expect a trail that feels more like a true backcountry stroll than a polished park path: the hike’s moderate grade and steady climb are straightforward, but navigation can be part of the challenge. Bring a map or GPS, sturdy footwear, and basic day-hiking supplies; the modest length and gain make this an accessible, rewarding option for hikers looking to connect with nature without a long commitment.
The Setting
The Fall Off sits at 712 feet along the Big Nance Creek, in the foothills of Alabama.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Trail length: 2.4 miles (out-and-back). Elevation gain: approximately 350 feet. Difficulty: moderate. Trail type: out-and-back. Official USFS trail name/number and detailed USFS surface/grade/class data are not provided in the available sources. The trail is modest in length with a steady, moderate climb—expect natural, potentially unmarked sections rather than a fully developed paved or gravel path. Hikers should plan for uneven terrain, bring navigation aids, and be prepared for changing trail conditions.
What to Expect
Expect a quiet and secluded waterfall experience. The area may be surrounded by dense forest, and the waterfall itself could vary in flow depending on recent rainfall.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The trail may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at The Fall Off?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at The Fall Off?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and fall are typically the best times to visit, as the weather is mild and the waterfall may have a stronger flow due to seasonal rains.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
The trail may be unmarked and could have uneven or slippery terrain. Visitors should exercise caution and avoid visiting during heavy rain or after dark.
Current Water Conditions
2 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 80 years of record
1.01 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 nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge BIG NANCE CREEK AT COURTLAND AL (12 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
2 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
2 cfs
5/10Wed
Barely Flowing
2 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
2 cfs
5/10Fri
Barely Flowing
3 cfs
3/10Sat
Low
3 cfs
3/10Sun
Low
2 cfs
3/10Best 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 January.
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 Hatton 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.
The bare-earth surface loses about 63 feet through the falls, but gradually, the profile of a cascade rather than a plunge. The ground at the falls is roughly 712 feet above sea level.
Water arrives on almost flat ground and leaves through a ravine that loses about 63 feet in the first 500 feet below the falls. Facing east, the falls catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 712 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 63 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- East
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading east).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Specific directions to The Fall Off are not well-documented. Visitors may need to rely on local knowledge or GPS coordinates shared by previous hikers.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear. Visitors should prepare for limited or informal parking options near the trailhead.
Elevation
712 feet above sea level
Coordinates
34.610647° N, -87.431968° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring a map or GPS device, as the trail may not be clearly marked. Wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for uneven terrain. Check weather conditions before visiting.
Where to Stay
Best Western Plus Tuscumbia/Muscle Shoals Hotel & Suites
Home2 Suites By Hilton Decatur Ingalls Harbor
Days Inn by Wyndham Muscle Shoals
Hampton Inn & Suites-Florence Downtown
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
Nearby attractions are not well-documented, but visitors may explore other natural areas in Alabama.
Wildlife
The area may host typical Alabama wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Be cautious of snakes and insects.
Cities near The Fall Off
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