Located right in the heart of northeastern Alabama in the city of Gadsden, Noccalula Falls stands as a monumental tribute to the area’s natural beauty and rich history. Noccalula’s stunning waterfall, surrounded by amazing greenery and fascinating landscapes, has become a popular destination for tourists seeking a glimpse into the wonders of Mother Nature and the stories that have molded the community.
Table of Contents
- The Majesty of Noccalula Falls
- 7 Top Fun Things to do at Noccalula Falls Park
- How to Plan Your Visit
- Contact Information
- There You Have it!
My family and I throughly enjoyed our day trip to this north Alabama gem! It was in the summer and hot when we came and from my own experience the hot summers in Alabama can be very brutal! One thing that we really enjoyed seeing was the Noccalula Falls water fall! It was majestic to witness!
The Majesty of Noccalula Falls
How do you say Noccalula? Noccalula is correctly pronounced “KNOCK’-A- LOO’-LA.”
Noccalula Falls derives its name from a folk tale about a local Native American legend, adding a touch of mystique to this already charming site. According to legend, a young Cherokee Princess named Noccalula, in an act of defiance against a prearranged marriage agreed to by her father, who was a Cherokee Indian Chief, decided to leap to her death from the top of what was then named Black Creek Falls, casting herself into the swirling waters below. Her father, became heartbrokened over her death so he renamed Black Creek Falls with his daughter’s name, Noccalula. Since that day the waterfall has been called Noccalula Falls. A bronze statue, installed in 1969, is perched on the cliff to remind visitors about the legendary leap of Princess Noccalula.
Noccalula Falls, a majestic waterfall cascading over 90 feet into the Black Creek ravine, creates a breathtaking view of nature’s awesome power and beauty.
As visitors approach the falls, the sound of rushing water increases and grows louder, creating anticipation toward seeing the awe-inspiring sight. Viewing platforms are strategically located along the trails to allow visitors to sit and reflect on the grandeur of the falls.
7 Top Fun Things to do at Noccalula Falls Park
1. Explore the Park
Attractions
Beyond the falls themselves, Noccalula Falls Park offers countless recreational opportunities and historical attractions. The park is massive and spans over 250 acres, providing ample space to explore and enjoy your stay. Visit the gift shop and take home a souvenir of your visit to this magical place!
Here’s an map of Noccalula Falls
you can use as a guide that shows all the attractions.
Black Creek Trails
A network of 15 well-maintained trails winds themselves throughout the park, inviting those who enjoy walking, running, hiking and bicycling to immerse themselves in the natural surroundings. Trail enthusiasts will find a variety of trails adaptable for all skill levels. The trails meander through wooded areas, across bridges spanning the Black Creek, and along the rocky cliffs that lead to amazing panoramic views. Each step brings together a new aspect of the park’s diverse ecosystem, with native flora and fauna adding to the allurement of the trails experience.
Here’s an interactive trail map from Noccalula Falls that shows the trails.
2. Visit the Pioneer Village
Beyond its natural beauty, Noccalula Falls holds a tremendous amount of historical significance that adds depth to its charm. Noccalula Falls Park is home to the Pioneer Village, a collection of authentic century buildings that transport visitors back in time. My family and I enjoyed viewing many of these pioneer buildings. The photos below are just some of them that we viewed including a church and schoolhouse, a blacksmith shop, loom house, spring house, grist mill, and many others. They offer visitors a glimpse into the daily lives of the early settlers in the region.
3. See the Botanical Gardens
Adding to the park’s diverse attractions, the Noccalula Falls Botanical Gardens showcase the beauty of curated plant collections. The gardens feature a wide selection of native and exotic plants, with a variety of colors and textures that change with each season. Winding paths guide visitors through the gardens, highlighting different aspects of horticulture and landscaping.
The botanical gardens provide a serene escape, where visitors can stroll at their own pace and appreciate the beauty of nature. Benches are placed strategically throughout the gardens to sit down and enjoy the awesome plant life.
Here are some photos of the plants that we enjoyed viewing. They are simply beautiful to look at.
4. Stay at the Noccalula Falls Campground
The Noccalula Falls Campground offers its guests a tranquil retreat within its park. Campsites are nestled among the trees, providing a sense of seclusion while at the same time remaining conveniently near the main attractions. From primitive tent camping to RV hookups, the campground amenities includes a swimming pool, laundry facility, picnic pavilions, recreation room, and a playground. Visitors can enjoy the comforts of camping without sacrificing convenience.
While our plans did not include an extended stay at the Noccalula Falls campground but rather a day trip, I could only imagine the fun of camping under the beautiful nighttime starlit Alabama sky, in the midst of the crackling sound of the campfire! The campground provides a perfect opportunity to relax, roast marshmallows, and create forever lasting memories against the backdrop of the peaceful Noccalula Falls.
Here’s a map 
from Noccalula Falls showing the campground with amenities.
5. Rent a Log Cabin at Noccalula Falls
If you want to take your camping experience up a notch, rent a log cabin at Noccalula Falls Campground! They have 2 beautiful log cabins located on the edge of the Black Creek gorge that are available for rental for guests. The 2 bedroom and 1 bath cabin amenities include a fireplace, full kitchen, screened in porch and queen beds. Reach out to them for more information.
6. Enjoy Family-Friendly Entertainment
Noccalula Falls Park offers family-friendly attractions designed to captivate visitors of all ages.
See the Animal Habitat
The Animal Habitat is a super delight for children and adults, providing a learning experience with the animal kingdom. We really enjoyed seeing the deer, donkey, goats and all the other animals!
Play Mini-Golf
The park’s miniature golf course is located adjacent to the main area of the park. It has its own parking area that you can enter from the gift shop parking lot. The mini-golf course is super fun! Who doesn’t like to play mini-golf!
Ride the Train
The Noccalula Falls train ride offers a guided tour of the park, providing insights into its history.
7. Attend Special Events at Noccalula Falls Park
Throughout the year, Noccalula Falls Park hosts a variety of special events including the “The World’s Longest Yard Sale,” Barbarian Challenge Obstacle Course, Smoke on the Falls Noccalula Barbecue Competition, Art on the Rocks at the Falls, and Christmas at the Falls that begins on Thanksgiving Night and ends on December 31st.
Reach out to Noccalula Fall Park for more information including dates, time, sign up information and cost.
How to Plan Your Visit
When planning your visit to Noccalula Falls, check out the park’s official website for the latest information on opening hours, admission fees, and any special events or programs.
Also, dress appropriately for outdoor activities depending on the time of the year with comfortable footwear, weather-appropriate clothing, and, if planning to hike the trails, bring a refillable water bottle. Our visit was during the summertime and it was extraordinary hot that day. Always dress accordingly for sunny or cold or rainy weather and for what adventures you have planned to do.
Photography enthusiasts will find many super opportunities to capture the beauty of Noccalula Falls. I know we took many amazing photos of this marvelous place! I selected a few for this blog.
Contact Information
Noccalula Falls Campground
Hours of Operation: Monday-Saturday 9:00 am-7:00 pm and Sunday 11:00 am-5:00 pm
Telephone: (256) 549-4663 Press Option 2
Email: noccalulafalls@cityofgadsden.com
Address: 1600 Noccalula Road, Gadsden, Al 35904
Website: https://www.noccalulafallspark.com
Noccalula Falls Park
Hours of Operation: Open: March – October: Mon – Sun: 9 am – 5 pm CST
Christmas at the Falls Hr Monday – Sunday: 4 pm – 10 pm CST
Park Office Hours: Monday – Friday: 8 am – 4 pm CST
Telephone: (256) 549-4663
Email: noccalulafalls@cityofgadsden.com
Address: 1500 Noccalula Road, Gadsden, Al 35904
Website: https://www.noccalulafallspark.com
There You Have it!
Noccalula Falls is a marveleous getaway adventure filled with many fun things to do. I have given you 7 top fun things to do at the Noccalula Falls Park. The park provides a fun destination that appeals to a diverse range of interests.
Whether you come to see the falls, the trails, animals, visit the historical Pioneer Village, enjoy the family-friendly attractions, or attend some of the special events at the park you will not regret making the trip to this amazing adventure! Noccalula Falls has something to offer for everyone!
So drive on up to Gadsden, Alabama to Noccalula Falls and have the time of your life!
As always my friend, be safe in your travels!
