Attractions Along the Lookout Mountain Parkway
ALABAMA
Alpine Camp for Boys – Mentone, AL
Alpine is a summer camp for boys, a 350+ acre Alabama paradise: deep forests, massive rocks, and rushing waterfalls. It’s a world for exploration, getting dirty, and making hearts beat faster. Climbing, archery, mud wars, forts, fires, football – whatever the adventure, Alpine Camp always pushes boys to grow in independence and community.
Location: 721 County Road 614, Mentone, Alabama 35984
Website: alpinecamp.com
Phone: 256-634-4404
Cloudmont Ski Resort – Mentone, AL
Hit the slopes at Alabama’s only ski resort! Tucked away in Mentone, Cloudmont is a great spot for beginner and intermediate skiers to learn the ropes, sharpen their skills, and enjoy a little winter adventure. Since operations depend on weather and snowmaking conditions, check
Location: 138 County Road 619, Mentone, AL 35984
Website: facebook.com/cloudmont
DeSoto State Park – Fort Payne, AL
Discover the natural beauty of Lookout Mountain at DeSoto State Park, a 3,500-acre mountain retreat just outside Fort Payne, Alabama. Surrounded by lush forests, winding rivers, scenic overlooks, and cascading waterfalls, the park offers endless opportunities to explore the outdoors. Just a short drive away, DeSoto Falls plunges 104 feet into a breathtaking pool below, making it Alabama’s second-tallest waterfall and a must-see stop for nature lovers.
From more than 25 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails to kayaking, fishing, swimming, and picnicking, there’s an adventure for every kind of explorer. Visitors can also enjoy the park’s nature center, seasonal Olympic-size swimming pool, scenic picnic areas, and interpretive programs throughout the year.
Make a getaway of it with a variety of overnight accommodations, including rustic cabins, mountain chalets, motel rooms, and a campground with full-hookup sites for tents and RVs. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, hitting the trails, or simply soaking in the mountain scenery, DeSoto State Park and DeSoto Falls offer the perfect escape into Alabama’s great outdoors.
Location: 7104 DeSoto Parkway NE, Fort Payne, Alabama 35967
Website: alapark.com/desoto-state-park
Phone: 256-845-5380
Junkasaurus Wrecks by Ekim Snaggog – Fort Payne, AL
While taking a scenic drive along the Lookout Mountain Parkway and keep an eye out for a larger-than-life roadside surprise! Located in Fischer Crossroads, Junkosaurus Wrecks is a life-sized metal dinosaur created by local junk artist Mike, also known as Ekim Snaggog. What began with a 10-foot robot built from recycled odds and ends in 1999 grew into nearly 30 unique metal sculptures, each with its own quirky character. The crowning jewel of Mike’s creations is Junkosaurus Wrecks, who stands at a whopping twenty-one feet tall and weighs approximately one and a half tons. He consists of over two thousand pieces of junk. Stop by the Fischer Lot to see these imaginative creations for yourself!
Location: 4616 Desoto Pkwy NE, Fort Payne, AL 35967
Little River Canyon National Preserve – Fort Payne, AL
Discover one of the South’s most breathtaking natural treasures at Little River Canyon National Preserve, nestled atop Lookout Mountain near Fort Payne, Alabama. Carved over millions of years, this spectacular landscape features towering sandstone cliffs, forested canyon rims, sparkling pools, scenic overlooks, and cascading waterfalls. At the heart of it all flows the Little River, one of the few rivers in the nation that runs almost entirely along the top of a mountain.
Spanning more than 15,000 acres, the preserve offers endless ways to experience the great outdoors. Take in sweeping canyon views along the scenic drive, explore hiking trails, photograph rushing waterfalls, or venture out for kayaking, fishing, and other outdoor adventures. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful escape or a thrilling day in nature, Little River Canyon’s rugged beauty offers something to discover around every bend.
Make the Little River Canyon Center your starting point for exploration, where interactive exhibits, educational programs, guided hikes, workshops, and seasonal concerts bring the region’s natural and cultural heritage to life. With its unforgettable scenery and opportunities for adventure, Little River Canyon National Preserve is a must-see destination along Lookout Mountain Parkway.
Location: 4322 Little River Trail NE Suite 100, Fort Payne, Alabama 35967
Website: nps.gov/liri/index.htm
Phone: 256-845-3548
Mentone, Alabama
Nestled atop Lookout Mountain, rests a quaint little hamlet that beckons the weary and those seeking solitude from big city life. Mentone, it is called, penned for a French town whose name means ‘musical mountain spring.’ Once a thriving health resort, people came from all over the world to partake of the mineral springs that were believed to have healing powers. The springs are no more but the magic and appeal of Mentone remains. Accommodations in Mentone are as unique as the town itself. Cozy country cottages sit nestled among the pines along the west fork of Little River and the innkeepers of Mentone’s many Bed & Breakfasts Inns await your arrival. Enjoy the mountain’s gentle night sounds as they lull you to sleep. Then awaken to the melody of nature as it lures you to the breakfast table. One visit to Mentone and you too will feel the warmth and charm that has attracted tourists for over a century. Make plans today for an experience of a lifetime.
Website: mentonealabama.gov
Phone: 256-634-4444
Orbix Hot Glass – Fort Payne, AL
Discover the art of glassblowing at Orbix Hot Glass, a working glass studio and gallery nestled on 40 scenic acres near Little River Canyon National Preserve. Since 2002, owners Cal and Christy Breed have transformed their passion for glass into exquisite, handcrafted works of art inspired by the beauty and rugged spirit of Lookout Mountain.
Watch skilled artisans shape molten glass into striking pieces, browse the gallery for one-of-a-kind creations, or take part in a glassblowing demonstration or class to experience the craft firsthand. Every piece reflects a careful balance of color, form, and creativity, making Orbix a special stop for art lovers and curious travelers alike.
Whether you’re searching for a unique keepsake or simply want to see traditional craftsmanship in action, Orbix Hot Glass offers an unforgettable blend of art, nature, and Southern charm.
Location: 3869 County Road 275, Fort Payne, Alabama 35967
Website: orbixhotglass.com
Phone: 256-523-3188
True Adventure Sports – Fort Payne, AL
Get your adrenaline pumping with True Adventure Sports, your go-to outfitter for outdoor excitement in Fort Payne and across Lookout Mountain. With more than 34 outdoor activities to choose from, there’s no shortage of ways to explore the area, from rock climbing, rappelling, and bouldering to wild cave exploration, night hikes, zip lining, and canoeing. Experienced guides offer trips, lessons, and team-building experiences for adventurers of all skill levels.
Location: 13102 Alabama Hwy 176, Fort Payne, Alabama 35967
Website: trueadventuresports.com
Phone: 256-997-9577
GEORGIA
Cloudland Canyon State Park – Rising Fawn, GA
Take in some of the most breathtaking scenery on Lookout Mountain at Cloudland Canyon State Park, a 3,485-acre natural wonder near Rising Fawn, Georgia. Carved deep into the mountain by flowing creeks over millions of years, the canyon boasts towering sandstone cliffs, lush forested ravines, cascading waterfalls, and sweeping overlooks that stretch across the surrounding hills and valleys.
Explore miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, descend the staircase to discover Cherokee and Hemlock Falls, or enjoy a leisurely stroll along the scenic overlook trail. For those looking to stay a little longer, the park offers campgrounds, cozy cottages, yurts, and backcountry campsites, making it easy to turn a day of exploration into a mountain getaway.
Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, capturing stunning views, or finding a quiet spot to reconnect with nature, Cloudland Canyon State Park is a must-see destination on the Georgia side of Lookout Mountain.
Location: 122 Cloudland Canyon Park Rd, Rising Fawn, GA 30738
Website: gastateparks.org/CloudlandCanyon
Phone: 706-657-4050
Lookout Mountain Lavender Farm – Rising Fawn, GA
Find your moment of calm at Lookout Mountain Lavender Farm, a peaceful retreat where fragrant fields and mountain charm invite you to slow down and savor the simple things. Owned by Alice and Bill Marrin since 2016, this family-run farm offers a chance to escape the everyday and enjoy the beauty and soothing scent of lavender.
Visit during the month of June to wander the fields, cut fresh lavender, and spend quality time with family and friends. Browse the farm store for handmade, lavender-inspired products, discover lavender plants to grow at home, or take part in educational experiences like Lavender 101 classes and special events.
Whether you’re gathering fresh blooms or simply soaking in the peaceful surroundings, Lookout Mountain Lavender Farm is a lovely place to pause, unwind, and experience a little mountain serenity.
Location: 1039 North Moore Road, Rising Fawn, GA 30738
Website: lookoutlavender.com
Phone: 706-993-1145
Lookout Mountain Pottery – Rising Fawn, GA
Discover the beauty of handmade craftsmanship at Lookout Mountain Pottery, an artisan studio tucked away in the scenic hills of Rising Fawn, Georgia. Founded by potter Mark Issenberg, the studio specializes in distinctive, wood-fired stoneware, featuring rich textures, earthy tones, and beautiful ash-glazed finishes.
Each piece is thoughtfully crafted using traditional pottery techniques, making every creation a unique work of art. Whether you’re a pottery enthusiast, an art lover, or simply searching for a special keepsake, Lookout Mountain Pottery offers a glimpse into the creativity and craftsmanship that make this mountain community so special.
Location: 3005 Plum Nelly Rd, Rising Fawn, GA 30738
Website: lookoutmountainpottery.com
Phone: 706-398-3232
Lookout Mountain Flight Park – Rising Fawn, GA
Take adventure to new heights at Lookout Mountain Flight Park, a world-renowned hang gliding and paragliding destination offering spectacular views of Lookout Valley and the surrounding mountains. With miles of scenic ridgelines and ideal soaring terrain, this one-of-a-kind destination attracts pilots from near and far to experience the thrill of flight above Lookout Mountain.
Whether you’re an experienced pilot or dreaming of flying for the first time, the park offers flight instruction and tandem experiences for an unforgettable aerial adventure. Prefer to keep your feet on the ground? Relax at the landing zone, take a dip in the swimming pool, enjoy a game of volleyball, or unwind at the creekside campground around a crackling bonfire.
From breathtaking views to a welcoming community of outdoor enthusiasts, Lookout Mountain Flight Park is the perfect place to add a little extra excitement to your mountain getaway.
Location: 7201 Scenic Highway, Rising Fawn, GA 30738
Website: flylookout.com
Phone: 706-383-1292
TENNESSEE
Lookout Mountain Conservancy – Chattanooga, TN
Discover the natural beauty of Lookout Mountain through the work of Lookout Mountain Conservancy, a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting the mountain’s scenic landscapes, wildlife, and rich natural heritage. Founded in 1991, the conservancy preserves land across Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee, helping safeguard the forests, waterways, and open spaces that make this region so special.
Beyond conservation, the organization helps visitors connect with the outdoors through public parks and scenic trails, including the Guild-Hardy Trail, the River-to-Clouds Route, and Rockmont Park, home to a unique natural bouldering area. Whether you’re hiking a wooded trail, exploring local parks, or simply enjoying the mountain scenery, Lookout Mountain Conservancy helps keep these treasured landscapes thriving for generations to come.
Location: 3085 Broad St, Chattanooga, TN 37408
Website: lookoutmountainconservancy.org
Phone: 423-424-3882
Ruby Falls – Chattanooga, TN
Descend into an underground world of wonder at Ruby Falls, home to a spectacular 145-foot waterfall hidden deep inside Lookout Mountain in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Discovered in 1928 by explorer Leo Lambert, this breathtaking natural attraction invites visitors to journey through fascinating caverns filled with unique rock formations before reaching the sparkling waterfall tucked beneath the mountain’s surface.
After your guided cave tour, take in sweeping views of the surrounding landscape from Lookout Mountain Tower. With its remarkable geology, fascinating history, and unforgettable underground scenery, Ruby Falls offers an extraordinary adventure for visitors of all ages.
Location: 1720 S. Scenic Highway, Chattanooga, TN 37409
Website: www.rubyfalls.com
Phone: 423-821-2544