About Noccalula Falls
Noccalula Falls is a named waterfall in Etowah County, Alabama, located about 2.1 miles northwest of Gadsden. The U.S. Geological Survey records it on the Gadsden West 7.5-minute topographic quadrangle at 34°02′29″ N, 86°01′16″ W (34.04149, -86.02108). Historical sources also record the names Nachalula Falls, Black Creek Falls, Naccalulah Falls, Noccululu Falls, The Falls, Nahculola Falls, Nocalula Falls, Nahculoloa Falls, and Nacalula Falls. Named features close by in the federal gazetteer include The Brow (cliff, 0.8 mi), Clayton Fish Pond (reservoir, 1.3 mi), and Ewing Hill (summit, 2.0 mi). The nearest other waterfall in this directory is Swindell Falls, 17 miles to the north.
Visitors to this 90-ft. waterfall & huge park can hike, pet animals, putt-putt golf, picnic & camp.
USGS gazetteer description: 90 feet high. Located in sec 29,T11S,R6E, Huntsville Meridian.
More Photos
3,253 visitor photos are available on the Google Maps listing.
Weather at Noccalula Falls
Full NWS forecastForecast for the waterfall's exact location, not the nearest town. Mountain weather can change quickly.
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Source: National Weather Service.
Conditions at Noccalula Falls
Sun and Daylight Today
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Times in Chicago time. Canyons and steep valleys lose direct sun earlier.
Elevation
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At the mapped waterfall point, from the USGS 3D Elevation Program. Expect cooler temperatures than in nearby towns at lower elevation.
Nearest Stream Gauge
Checking for USGS gauges within about 8 miles...
Live discharge in cubic feet per second (ft³/s). The gauge may be on a different stream than the falls; use the trend as a rough guide to how much water is running in the area.
Map and Directions
The marker shows the USGS-recorded position of Noccalula Falls. Trailheads and parking can be some distance from the falls themselves, so plan your route with an up-to-date trail map.
Visitor Ratings
Noccalula Falls holds a 4.7 average from 1,271 Google reviews. Distribution by star rating:
Named Landmarks Nearby
These named features from the USGS Geographic Names Information System lie within two miles of Noccalula Falls. Stream positions mark the stream's mouth as recorded by USGS.
- The Brow — cliff, 0.8 mi
- Clayton Fish Pond — reservoir, 1.3 mi
- Ewing Hill — summit, 2.0 mi
Before You Visit
- Water levels change quickly. Flow is usually strongest after rain and during snowmelt; see the best time to visit waterfalls.
- Stay back from the brink and off wet rock. Our waterfall safety guide covers the most common hazards.
- Check land ownership and access before you go. Some named falls sit on private property or in areas without a maintained trail.
- Download offline maps and save the coordinates 34.04149, -86.02108. Use our waterfall hike packing list.
Waterfalls Near Noccalula Falls
- Little River Falls, AL33 mi northeast
- Piney Branch Falls, AL33 mi northwest
- Salt Creek Falls, AL38 mi south
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Noccalula Falls located?
Noccalula Falls is in Etowah County, Alabama, about 2.1 miles northwest of Gadsden. Its coordinates are 34.04149, -86.02108 (34°02′29″ N, 86°01′16″ W).
What town is closest to Noccalula Falls?
The closest town with 1,000 or more residents is Gadsden, AL, about 2.1 miles away in a straight line. Driving distance is usually longer, so check the route before you go.
What waterfalls are near Noccalula Falls?
The closest is Swindell Falls (17 mi north). Others within reach include Griffin Falls (18 mi), Short Creek Falls (22 mi), and High Falls (25 mi).
Which USGS topographic map shows Noccalula Falls?
Noccalula Falls appears on the USGS Gadsden West 7.5-minute quadrangle. You can view it in The National Map viewer or download the US Topo sheet for offline navigation.