Enjoy the beauty of nature and the gifts that it offers on the lovely trails of DeSoto State Park. Please remember that Alabama State Parks preserve land for the benefit of present and future generations. You can participate in this preservation effort by remembering that all plants and animals are protected in each Alabama State Park. Please leave all plants and animal life undisturbed for others to enjoy.
DeSoto State Park has over 20 miles of hiking trails, including up to 11 miles of mountain biking trails. Terrain on all trails varies from easy to strenuous. "Easy' biking can be found on the Family Loop, located just off the Lost Falls trailhead; while still rugged terrain, it is mostly flat. Bikes are also allowed on the cabin road & in the campground. Helmets are required for children 16 & under.
Please be sure to find out what type of terrain a trail might have before setting out; they may be more difficult than you think. Trail maps & more trail information can be found at the Lodge, Country Store, & Nature Center. All mountain bike trails are marked by white diamonds on the trail map.
On Alabama State Park Property surrounding the CCC Road, including the Gilliam Loop, is a multi-user area that include the following activities:
Bow Hunting ONLY - DeSoto Scout Trail Exit #1 South to the CCC unfinished bridge
Hikers and Biker are encouraged to wear bright colors or hunter orange during deer season
Be aware of Hunters on the CCC Road from - October 15 through January 31
Hunters DO NOT have permission to access the Wildlife Management Area through the DeSoto State Park Cabin Area.
Gilliam Loop and the CCC Road Trailhead is located between Cabins 21 & 22
DeSoto State Park is very fortunate to have a great bike club that volunteers their time & effort into making our mountain bike trails wonderful. Be sure to check them out on Facebook!
DeSoto State Park would like to extend a big thank you and acknowledge GH Metal Solutions's service to the community and the park.
Special thanks go out to Brad Scott, Alan Kilgo, & Edwin Stanley of GH Metal Solutions, located in Fort Payne Alabama. Brad Scott stands next to one of the many trails signs the company has donated to DeSoto State Park. These signs are laser cut and powder coated to withstand years of use and exposure to the elements. Many of the signs are constructed of stainless steel.
Access to Alabama State Parks and State Park Programs is available without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex or disabilities.