Little River is unique because it flows for most of its length atop Lookout Mountain in northeast Alabama. Forested uplands, waterfalls, canyon rims and bluffs, pools, boulders, and sandstone cliffs offer settings for a variety of recreational activities. Natural resources and cultural heritage come together to tell th
Yes — your pass gets you in.
Your pass covers the $15 park entrance fee.
- Fee type Entrance fee — The standard per-vehicle park entrance fee. Entrance - Private Vehicle: $15Entrance - Motorcycle: $15
- HoursThe main park is open during daylight hours every day including holidays.
- Source National Park Service ↗
- Last verifiedJuly 6, 2026 · Confirmed
- Official pagewww.nps.gov ↗
- Contact 2568459605 · liri_information@nps.gov
Little River Canyon National Preserve follows along the Little River and covers approximately 40 miles from the northeast corner to the southwest corner. The easiest way to access the park is by Alabama Highway 35 about 10 miles east out of Fort Payne, Alabama. Interstate 59 is the closest interstat
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Little River Canyon National Preserve — always confirm with the managing site before you go.
Yes Does the America the Beautiful pass work at Little River Canyon National Preserve?
Yes — your pass covers the entrance fee here.
Yes Can you fish at Little River Canyon National Preserve?
Yes — fishing is one of the listed activities here. You’ll need a valid state fishing license.
Yes Can you kayak, paddle, or boat here?
Yes — there’s water for boating and paddling at Little River Canyon National Preserve. Hand-launched craft usually need no permit; motorized boats may need registration or a launch fee.
Yes Are there hiking trails?
Yes — trails here include 01 Loop, 09 Trail E, 09 Trail W, and more. Check length and difficulty before you go.
Yes Can you bike here?
Yes — biking is available at Little River Canyon National Preserve. Confirm which roads or trails allow it.
Depends Can you ride OHVs or ATVs here?
Yes — off-highway vehicle use is among the activities here. Stay on designated routes and check any permit or registration rules.
Depends Do you need a permit to climb?
Rock climbing is available here; some routes or areas may need a permit. Check current climbing regulations first.
Depends Can you bring a dog?
Usually only leashed and in developed areas, campgrounds, and paved paths — not on most trails or in buildings. Pet rules vary by park, so check first.
No Are drones allowed?
No — launching, landing, or operating drones is prohibited on National Park Service land.
Nearby sites
Sauta Cave National Wildlife Refuge
CheckThis U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
NPS Photo / Mary Dawson National Park Service Russell Cave National Monument
ConfirmedFree entry — there is no entrance fee here, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
