After our disaster on the way to Alabama, we needed a good Adventure Friday. The kids kept begging me to see the mountains, by reciting a Lord of the Rings line, "Mountains, I want to see mountains, Gandalf!" So I did some searching for something interesting they could see with some elevation changes, and found Noccalula Falls in Gadsden, Alabama.
The first thing we did upon arrival was take the train around the park and get an overview of what all we might like to see and do. We had alot of fun on the train, and it was a nice breezy way to see the park. I might note that everything in the park is pet friendly except the train. While riding around we spotted an arbor that we could sit under to have lunch. We roamed among some flower gardens to get there, and it was a nice area.
After lunch we walked down to the overlook at the falls. They are completely natural, fed by Black Creek. Since Alabama hadn't had rain in four weeks when we were there the water level was unnaturally low. As we followed the path over to the beginning of the gorge trail, we stopped and checked out several structures from the late 1700s and early 1800s. In addition to some houses that had been moved down from central Tennessee, there was a post office, blacksmith shop, and a covered bridge that had been moved to the park from the surrounding area. Everyone really enjoyed checking out the historical village.
Finally we reached the gorge trail which takes you down to Lower Black Creek and under the falls. It was rated as a moderate, paved trail with large elevation changes. They lied. It was more strenuous, and it was only paved in a few extra steep areas near the beginning of the trail. It was a very scenic trail. There are large boulders, small caves and greener all around. It was definitely cooler as we descended the trail, but not as much as you might have expected. The closer we got to the gorge floor the thicker the scattered sharp rocks became, and you had to be careful with your footing. But the views from underneath the falls were worth it.
Gary even made it down with some assistance. Going back up though was a little scary, because he definitely was over doing it. I drove the whole way back home. Once we reached the top again, Uncle Benji carried the kids over to see the animals and we all had a bathroom stop to cool down in the AC as much as anything. It was pretty close to 100 degrees out so rather than explore more or play putt-putt golf, we decided it was time to head back to the house to grill for supper.
We had a great time and the kids would like to visit again when the water is higher and the temperature is a bit cooler. If you'd like to make a trip the address to Noccalula Falls Park and Campground is 1500 Noccalula Road, Gadsden, Alabama. They're open February through October, and weekends in November. Of course, you can always call for more information at 256-549-4663. Entrance to the park costs $8 for an adult, $6 for seniors and children 4 to 12, and free for children 3 and under.
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