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DeSoto State Park
4.8 ★★★★★ 2,827 Google reviews · Running trail in Fort Payne, Alabama · Dawn to dusk
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Boardwalk
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Dawn to dusk
Confirmed from DeSoto State Park's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Mountaintop 3,502-acre state park with waterfalls, a nature center, pool & 25 mi. of trails.
What runners say about DeSoto State Park
“Well-maintained, AMAZING cabin rentals (seriously, rent a CCC cabin and thank me later).”
“Was absolutely beautiful but super cold forest couple days but we had warm clothes and were able to explore and see some awesome views and waterfalls.”
“The park is surrounded by rushing waterfalls, peaceful trails, and the sweet fragrance of wildflowers that will absolutely take your breath away.”
🌲 DeSoto State Park – A Hidden Gem in Alabama! 🌊 DeSoto State Park is truly a gem! Conveniently located just eight miles northeast of Fort Payne, Alabama, it’s nestled atop the breathtaking Lookout Mountain.
Christmas camping was the best! We dos most of the trails amid camped 6 nights at the campground. Was absolutely beautiful but super cold forest couple days but we had warm clothes and were able to explore and see some awesome views and waterfalls.
First, I’ll start with the campground ⛺️. Hands down the best campground I’ve camped at to date. The ladies at the Country Store where you check in are super friendly and very helpful. Warning cell service in the campground is very limited and the only service that works is Starlink.
Great place here in northeast Alabama. One of the many beautiful hidden gems Alabama has to offer. This state park is very well managed and maintained. Very clean bathrooms. Lots of picnic areas with tables and charcoal grills. So much to see and do here. Hiking trails all over the place.
Trail conditions & character
“Was absolutely beautiful but super cold forest couple days but we had warm clothes and were able to explore and see some awesome views and waterfalls.”
“The store is great to grab a soda or stop at bathroom coming or going to hiking trails.”
“The park is surrounded by rushing waterfalls, peaceful trails, and the sweet fragrance of wildflowers that will absolutely take your breath away.”
“The only negative thing was the roads in and out we're so dangerously steep.”
“Along the boardwalk there are plaques with the trees leaves and info.”
“The hiking paths were clear and easily accessible.”
Plan your run at DeSoto State Park
The practical stuff
- AccessDawn to dusk — the gates close, so do not plan a run that finishes after dark
- SurfaceBoardwalk — flat and scenic, and slick when wet, so watch your footing
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadrestrooms — reported by runners
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitealapark.com
- Phone+1 256-845-0051
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 9 am–9 pm |
| Tuesday | 9 am–9 pm |
| Wednesday | 9 am–9 pm |
| Thursday | 9 am–9 pm |
| Friday | 9 am–9 pm |
| Saturday | 9 am–9 pm |
| Sunday | 9 am–9 pm |
Running trails near Fort Payne
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Indian Falls
4.6 ★★★★★ 122 reviews
Located in Desoto State Park, this hiking area features a kid-friendly trail leading to a waterfall.
