Dismals Canyon

Dismals Canyon is anything but. In fact, the Dismals are alive and vibrant with more natural beauty and wonder in this 85-acre natural conservancy than in most any other place in the state.

The canyon, located just 10 miles west of the Sipsey Wilderness, was first inhabited by Native Americans over 10,000 years ago. When Europeans arrived, they gave the canyon its name. Some believe it was named after the Dismals in Scotland, some say it was because early pioneers thought of it as being a "supernatural" place. Whatever the reason, Dismal Canyon is now known as Alabama's "last secret hiding place."

Within the boundaries of this canyon, which was declared a National Natural Landmark by the National Park Service in 1975, you will explore and learn of the history of some other "visitors" that came to this canyon, such as Jesse James, Aaron Burr and the Native Americans who first called this region home centuries ago.

Along the canyon floor the temperature drops 14 degrees, a true respite from the Alabama heat of summer. The path along Dismal Branch is vibrant green with moss and ferns. Waterfalls, such as Secret and Rainbow fill your senses as do geologic formations such as the towering boulders of Witch's Cavern and Temple Cave.

And, of course, there's this little oddity known as the Dismalites. Known only to thrive in a very few select locations on earth, the canyon being one of them, the Dismalites are nature's "glow sticks." Each night after twilight, these young larvae emit a bright blue-green light to attract food, a spectacular natural light show illuminating the canyon.

Special nighttime guided tours are given to view the Dismalites. Visit the canyon Web site or call them for exact times of the tours.