Birmingham: DeSoto Scout Trail

This easy 3.4-mile dayhike skirts the swift waters of the Little River, then gently climbs to clifftop views of a deep river canyon in DeSoto State Park.

Heading out the door? Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members! Download the app.

Trail Facts

  • Distance: 2.8

Waypoints

DST007

Location: 34.4987411499023, -85.6159286499024

Towering rock outcrop to R of trail overlooks long stretch of West Fork Little River canyon

DST008

Location: 34.500659942627, -85.6153793334961

Turn R onto blue-blazed trail and cross Sharp Brook

DST010

Location: 34.5056533813477, -85.6132736206055

Trail ends @ intersection with dirt road; retrace steps to trailhead

DST009

Location: 34.5014686584473, -85.6139297485352

Covered pavilion shelter sits near edge of cliff

DST004

Location: 34.4953002929688, -85.6164321899414

Turn R to continue on DeSoto, traveling N

DST002

Location: 34.4915924072266, -85.6099624633789

Turn R @ trail intersection and follow DeSoto Scout Trail (marked with yellow blazes)

DST003

Location: 34.4925575256348, -85.6101531982422

Trail reaches riverbank; turn L @ T intersection, staying with yellow blazes

DST005

Location: 34.4974937438965, -85.6163787841797

Look R: Large, flat rock perched above river provides a good spot to relax with view of rapids

DST006

Location: 34.49853515625, -85.6166915893555

Cross wooden bridge above waterfall and continue straight, traveling N