Dismals Canyon is full of natural beauty and wonders

Dismals Canyon is located in Haleyville, Alabama. The Canyon is full of natural beauty and wonders such as undisturbed terrain on the floor, the winding stream, which enters the canyon - Dismals Branch from the roaring Rainbow Falls. Hiking trails that follow the stream past sky high boulders, thundering waterfalls, natural bridges, and grottos are formed by huge boulders, which have broken off bluffs during ancient earthquakes and into the mossy green mysterious forest.

The canyon was originally occupies over ten thousand years ago by native Indian tribes. From archaeological explorations over the years, the artifacts found round the bluff shelters and sanctuaries, it has been discovered about the culture of the Stone-Age man who inhabited the Canyons.

In the sunken forest are sanctuaries that were used for shelter and rituals by Pueblo, Cherokee and Chikasaw Indians. The area became a National Natural Landmark due the uncommon wild character of the canyon.

The area was once a primeval swamp but due to the geological event of the late Paleozoic era the draining waters carved the canyon and gorge and created the grottos, waterfalls, natural bridges and boulders from ancient earthquakes. The forest in the canyon is the oldest primeval forest east of Mississippi that has not been touched by fire or axe and is opened to the public.

There are over 350 different species of exotic flora in the canyon including virgin timber, which is comprised of Hemlock, Tulip Poplar and Beech. Roots from the trees grow around the giant boulders rather than underground and the boulders are covered with a thick blanket of moss. One of the trees at the canyon is the Canadian Hemlock, this tree is one of the oldest species of tree in Alabama, it is estimated to be 360 years old and stands at 138 feet tall with a crown spread of 50 feet.

Parts of the canyon include Temple Cave, which is a bluff shelter on the canyon floor and home to Paleo Indians. Pottery and arrow points have been found throughout the canyon. At the top of Rainbow Falls is a small pool, here the Old Mill Grinding Wheel is located that was built by early settlers. The wheel is now located below the falls as it was washed down there during a flood sometime in the 1950s.

Points of Interest for visitors throughout the canyons include the Dismalites, these are tiny creatures that light up after twilight, night tours with an experienced guide are available through the year to view the Dismalites. Swimming is available in a natural pool at Dismals Creek. Rainbow Falls is where the source of power for the great mill until destroyed by the flood. The grotto was created by a large earthquake sending house sized boulders to form natural bridges and a green grotto. Pulpit Rock is where visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the canyon and the Kitchen is a covered area, which the Chickasaw Indians used for cooking and tribal rituals.

Accommodation is available at the Canyon. These include two romantic cabins at the north end of the conservatory with maximum privacy. The cabins are constructed from Western Red Cedar with vaulted ceilings and stone fireplaces. A complimentary wine basket is given to guests upon arrival. The cabins have two bedrooms, one bath and can sleep up to eight people. Amenities include full linen and kitchen, TV, porch with rocking chair and pets are allowed.

Primitive campsites are available throughout the canyon. These include Sleeping Water, which can accommodate up to twenty campers, Caveman, Dead Water Bluff, Scout Site and the Bunkhouse. A modern bath house is available to all campers, each site has a fire ring and firewood is supplied. Sites are available on a first come first served basis apart from Dead Water Bluff.

Upon entry to the canyon is The Country Store, this stores is where visitors are to register to access the floor of the canyon, check in/out for camping sites or to purchase candy, Indian items, gifts and food.