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Jun 20, 2025 | By: Lois Hall Photography
I've talked about how spending even short amounts of time in nature can greatly reduce stress and enhance wellbeing in my past blogs. Today I'd like to introduce you to a truly special place. Dismals Canyon is located in Franklin County, Alabama just outside the town of Phil Campbell. Far from the bustling crowds, this hidden gem is often overshadowed by more popular destinations, yet it boasts a breathtaking boulder-strewn forest canyon that reveals the raw beauty of the natural world. As you traverse its winding trails, you'll be captivated by the vibrant greenery, towering rock formations, and serene atmosphere that define this unique ecosystem. The first thing you'll encounter as you start down into the canyon is a beautiful waterfall that i honestly could have stayed at all day
Some interesting facts about this place are that it was designated as a National Natural Landmark in May of 1974. As you make your way through the trail you will discover the sanctuaries paleo Cherokee, and Chickasaw people used for shelter nearly 10,000 years ago as well as discovering narrow winding passages of moss-covered sky reaching boulders and hidden caves. The canyon trail is also home to one of the few remaining virgin growth forests, such as Beech, Tulip Poplar, Hemlock, sweetgum, and Big Leaf Magnolia. The photos below give just a glimpse of how beautiful, and peaceful this place is.
This Landmark is not only beautiful during the day, sign up for one of the night tours for the chance to see the "Dismalites"! They are actually insects that glow in the dark (sometimes called glow worms). I didn't have the opportunity to see it on my first trip, but I will definitely be planning a second trip. Even though there are other people on the trail it never seems crowded, and the one constant thing I experienced besides the striking beauty and hidden delights, was that every person or group I encountered were sporting beaming smiles and the same sense of wonder I was. I look forward to your comments or stories/ memories you have of our beautiful natural world!
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