Noccalula Falls: One of Alabama’s Best Waterfalls

If you know me, then you know that despite TLC’s desperate pleas, I go chasing waterfalls. That’s why Noccalula Falls, located in Gadsden, Alabama became one of my most anticipated destinations after I discovered it online.

The waterfall stands an impressive 90 ft tall and roars loudly for all who visit it. It provides truly picturesque views, and my favorite part is that you have access to walk behind the waterfall if you choose to do so.

Noccalula Falls History

Noccalula Falls is named after Princess Noccalula. Legend has it that a Native American Chief’s daughter, Noccalula, was loved greatly by her community for her beauty and kind heart. Therefore, it came as no surprise that several men competed for her hand in marriage. However, only the richest chief gained the father’s approval.

Sadly, Noccalula had already fallen in love with another. Despite her protests, her father refused to allow her to be with the one she had chosen.

When the day of the wedding tragically arrived, the princess snuck off to stand over the waterfall before jumping off and taking her own life. Her heartbroken father later on named the waterfall after his daughter.

Today, if you visit Noccalula Falls, you will see a statue of the young Princess Noccalula standing over the waterfall moments before her final decision.

How to Access the Nocalula Falls Waterfall

There are two ways to get to the waterfall. One way is to pay the 6-dollar admission fee at the entrance, and another is to hike the Black Creek Trail. This trail requires a bit of climbing up and down rocks, so it might not be an easy trail for all. The entrance to this trail is located near the wedding chapel.

However, if you have no desire to get down under the waterfall, there are several viewing platforms that do not require a hike or a fee.

More Photos of Noccalula Falls

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