No offense, Gulf Shores! There’s a new sheriff in town, at least for the fall season.
That’s not to say Alabama’s beautiful beaches aren’t worthy of a fall getaway, but tucked away in the state’s northeast corner is a little-known town boasting some truly amazing sites.
While Alabama always makes a name for itself during college football season, it’s time to shine a light on the natural wonders in the ‘Heart of Dixie’.
We still have a ways to go finishing off our summer fun, but it’s never too early to plan a fall escape, especially when it’s as gorgeous as Mentone.
Where Down-Home Charm Meets Eye-Popping Natural Wonders
‘Southern hospitality’ is real. Just don’t expect it anywhere else but the charming South.
While we’re often drawn to iconic cities’ skyscrapers like moths to a flame, there’s something intangible that connects us to old-timey, friendly towns such as Mentone.
Maybe it’s the fact that people actually talk to each other rather than sit stone-faced on a subway with both AirPods in, or it could be this is the way we’re supposed to be living, not perched on the 34th floor of a high-rise.
Any way you slice it, small-town vibes are always alluring, and even more so when the already pretty town begins to pop in color, showcasing autumn’s finest reds, golds, and oranges.
You can peruse the quaint downtown district lined with delightful boutique shops and indulge in some savory homecookin’ like the popular Wildflower Cafe famous for Tomato Pie (nope, not pizza!).
Mentone is undoubtedly the best gateway to exploring Alabama’s stunning natural features.
Desoto State Park: Where Falls Colors Illuminate The Treetops For Miles
Sometimes National Parks steal the spotlight, but don’t sleep on what State Parks have to offer.
They may not be as vast as, say, Yellowstone, but places Desoto State Park are more than worth a visit, especially when colors begin to transform the seemingly endless tree lines.
That will begin to happen before you know it as summer winds down. September begins to see rustic reds, golds, and oranges, making for perfect photo-ops even deeper into fall.
Bring your hiking shoes and enjoy immersing yourself in the picture-perfect backdrop of untouched scenery, where most agree Talmadge Butler Boardwalk Trail is best for the ‘gram.
Although, this trail just scratches the surface, as the park is home to over 30 miles of winding trails with various lookout points for epic views.
Conveniently located between Birmingham and Chattanooga, there are multiple access points to begin your journey, but make sure not to skip out on 11 scenic miles of fall foliage at nearby Little River Canyon Preserve.
According to Desoto State Park’s website, a small charge of $4 per vehicle is required to enter the park’s picnic area.
‘Bama’s Majestic Waterfalls
If anyone mentions waterfalls ’round these parts, they’re likely talking about Desoto Falls, a 107-foot high waterfall cascading into a picturesque pool below.
As September rolls around, this is one of the best times to visit for enhanced views of the majestic scenery as the surrounding forestry begins to sprout new colors.
Definitely the highlight of Desoto State Park, however, there are numerous waterfalls to ‘chase’ throughout the region.
- Laurel Falls
- Indian Falls
- Lodge Falls
- Lost Falls
- Azalea Cascade
Lost Falls may be the most underrated as it’s a trek to reach passing otherworldly rock formations and deep caves but it offers a spectacular reward as one of the park’s prettiest hidden gems.
You’ve Made It This Far – Why Not Stay A While?
Don’t expect the Four Seasons around Mentone, but there is an array of cozy accommodations to choose from.
If you’d like to explore downtown’s delights, visit the historic Mentone Inn, which dates back to the 1920s.
Otherwise, you can make a reservation at one of the many chalets, cabins, or campsites Desoto State Park offers.
The cheapest of which would be a ‘Lodge Room’ starting at $102 at the end of September for the first sight of fall colors.
There are private rentals available too on popular sites like VRBO and Airbnb.
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