In the northeast corner of Alabama lies a hidden gem: DeKalb County. With over 30,000 acres of public land that stretches across two mountain ranges, a beautiful valley in between, a plethora of State Parks, and a National Preserve, DeKalb County is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

Fort Payne is a charming Southern town nestled at the foot of Lookout Mountain, serving as the gateway to DeKalb County's outdoor adventures. The city has a rich musical heritage — it's the hometown of the country music group Alabama, one of the best-selling musical acts in American history — and a growing culinary scene that reflects the region's agricultural abundance.

The Alabama Fan Club and Museum celebrates the band's remarkable career and the city's musical legacy, while the Fort Payne Depot Museum preserves the history of the town's railroad heritage.

Little River Canyon National Preserve is DeKalb County's crown jewel — a stunning gorge carved by the Little River, one of the few rivers in the United States that flows entirely atop a mountain. The canyon's rim offers dramatic views of the gorge below, and the canyon floor provides access to waterfalls, swimming holes, and exceptional hiking.

The preserve's 15,000 acres encompass a remarkable diversity of ecosystems, from the rocky canyon rim to the lush bottomland along the river. Wildlife is abundant, and the preserve is particularly renowned for its wildflower displays in spring.

DeSoto State Park, perched atop Lookout Mountain, offers camping, cabins, hiking, and swimming in a beautiful mountain setting. The park's centerpiece is DeSoto Falls — a spectacular 100-foot waterfall that is one of Alabama's most photographed natural features.

For more information, visit tourdekalb.com.