Alabama offers a variety of hiking trails. While some of these trails are intended to be explored during daytime hours, others are best taken at night. One of the best trails in Alabama to hike at night is located at Dismals Canyon. For information about Dismals Canyon, including why everyone should take this unique night hike, read on.
Dismals Canyon is a beautiful sandstone gorge that’s located in the tiny North Alabama town of Phil Campbell. It’s one of the state’s true hidden gems.
flickr/e.c.johnson
Covering approximately 85 acres, Dismals Canyon became a National Natural Landmark in 1975. It’s a must-visit for all ages.
Google/Ryan Beverly
From moss-covered boulders to…
Google/Steven Sharp
…breathtaking waterfalls, you’ll encounter lots of natural scenic beauty while exploring this historic canyon.
Google/David W Spivey
The most unique feature of Dismals Canyon is that it’s one of the few places in the world where rare insects called dismalites (glowworms) live.
www.dismalscanyon.com/Jeff Payne
During daylight hours, visitors can follow the canyon’s 1.5 mile hiking trail that meanders through the beautiful canyon. During nighttime hours, Dismals Canyon offers something truly special - a dismalite night tour.
Google/Michael Cody Meigs
This guided night tour, which allows visitors to see dismalites up close, is currently taking place on Saturdays at 8:00 p.m.
Reservations for this special hike are highly recommended, and a maximum of only four night tours are held each night.
www.dismalscanyon.com/Ronnie Harris
A visit to Dismals Canyon, whether day or night, is the perfect outdoor activity for everyone. Don’t forget to add this magical place to your summer bucket list. You’ll love it!
www.dismalscanyon.com/Ronnie Harris For more information about Dismals Canyon, including admission rates and rules, you can view its website here and its Facebook page here. You can visit Dismals Canyon at 901 Hwy 8, Phil Campbell, AL 35581. NOTE: Don’t forget your flashlight!
If you’ve ever visited Dismals Canyon, whether day or night, please share your experience with us.
flickr/e.c.johnson
Google/Ryan Beverly
Google/Steven Sharp
Google/David W Spivey
www.dismalscanyon.com/Jeff Payne
Google/Michael Cody Meigs
www.dismalscanyon.com/Ronnie Harris
For more information about Dismals Canyon, including admission rates and rules, you can view its website here and its Facebook page here. You can visit Dismals Canyon at 901 Hwy 8, Phil Campbell, AL 35581. NOTE: Don’t forget your flashlight!
There’s no denying that Dismals Canyon is reminiscent of Tolkien’s “Middle Earth.” For reasons why, be sure to check out our previous article: The One Place In Alabama That Looks Like Something From Middle Earth.
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