Little River Canyon Rim Ride

Little River Canyon Rim Ride

In northeastern Alabama, just outside Ft. Payne, and almost within shouting distance of the Georgia State Line is a ride that isn't publicized much outside the local area.  

A part of Lookout Mountain Parkway, AL Hwy 176 traverses the edge of the Little River Canyon and is known as the Little River Canyon Ride.  

This 12 mile undulating and twisty stretch is perhaps the best, and potentially the most dangerous stretch of asphalt in the entire state of Alabama.

I love this ride for two reasons.  There are 4 or 5 areas to pull off and enjoy tranquil and beautiful views of the canyon floor, and during the weekdays the road is all but deserted.  

The exception being late fall when the leaves change colors and seasonal tourists frequently clog the two lane road.  

Start the ride either on the north end, near Ft. Payne, or pickup AL Hwy 176 on the south end by taking I-59 out of Gadsden/Attalia and getting on Hwy 11 to Collinsville where 176 merges with Hwy Hwy 68.  

From Georgia, the ride is just over 45 minutes from Downtown Rome.  Take Hwy 27 north to Summerville and then Hwy 48 west to Menlo and onto Mentone Alabama. Once in Mentone, my favorite route is south towards Desota State Park, (a good destination if you've never been) and then continue on Hwy 89 (Desota Parkway) to where it intersects with AL Hwy 35 and turn left on AL 35 for a few miles until you reach 176 on your right and the entrance to the Rim Ride.  

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