Not only is Bethel Spring Falls one of Madison County’s largest waterfalls but it is also incredibly unique. Most waterfalls flow into a river or stream, but not Bethel Falls, this waterfall flows down into a cave below ground known as Paul’s cave. It then exits through a spring at the base of Keel Mountain.
Because this slightly challenging hike has you climbing over boulders and to the top of the Mountain, it isn’t for the faint of heart. In this guide, I will do my best to offset any challenges you may face throughout this hike. Not only will I walk you through the trail, and share my personal experience and advice but I’ll also share the best insights and tips so that you’ll know exactly what to expect.
Hiking To Bethel Spring Falls
Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Length: 2.4 mile loop
Elevation Gain: 400 ft.
Dog Friendly: Yes
Cost: FREE
With only 2 miles of free trails to explore, the preserve doesn’t hold back on its number of trails. Within these 2 miles of trails, there are a whopping 5 trails to show off all of its magnificent natural features. The trails are:
- Bethel Creek Loop Trail (0.33 mi)
You will begin your hike on this .33 mile loop trail, covered with crushed gravel. This easy trail was designed to accommodate visitors of different abilities. As you wander along, you’ll pass by active farmland, Spring Trail, and Bethel Creek, eventually returning to the trailhead and parking area. - Spring Trail (0.02 mi)
This very short trail, nestled in the beautiful forest, leads to a tiny spring with 2 benches. These two benches are a memorial to the sisters who donated this land. - Carpenter Trail (0.42 mi)
Carpenter Trail starts to gradually take you up the rocky mountain. Along this dirt path, you’ll see some small streams and a beautiful little waterfall. - Falling Sink Trail (0.59 mi)
This trail is where the hike becomes more challenging and rather quick. Not only does the incline become more steep, but there are boulders everywhere. - Mill Trail (0.48 mi)
Mill Trail is the steepest of the trails and it is very rocky.
We hiked this loop to Bethel Spring Falls: Bethel Creek Loop Trail – Spring Trail – Carpenter Trail – Falling Sink Trail – Carpenter Trail – Bethel Creek Loop Trail (across the bridge)
If you have young kids, dogs or are hiking after rain, I highly recommend you take the same route that we did. It’s easier and not as steep.
Most people hike the loop recommended on AllTrails which is slightly shorter and includes hiking Mill Trail instead of going back down the same way you came. It’d look like this: Bethel Creek Loop Trail – Carpenter Trail – Mill Trail – Falling Sink Trail – Carpenter Trail- Bethel Creek Loop Trail. This route is a total distance of 2 miles.
We planned on hiking Mill Trail back down, but when we saw the trail was incredibly steep and there were a lot of boulders, we opted to go back down the way we came (Carpenter’s Trail).
Bethel Spring Falls Location & Map
Address: 2641 Cherry Tree Rd, New Hope, AL 35760
Bethel Springs Waterfall is located within the 360-acre Bethel Spring Nature Preserve on Keel Mountain in Alabama.
While Bethel Springs Nature Preserve is kind of located in the middle of nowhere, it is still close enough to some large, well-known cities making it a great destination for a weekend getaway or a day trip. This is a great place to unwind and escape from the hustle and bustle for a little bit.
To help you better understand its Northern Alabama location, I have listed approximate drive times to Bethel Spring Nature Preserve from popular cities.
- Huntsville, Alabama: Closest major city, approximately 30-minutes drive.
- Scottsboro, Alabama: Approximately 30-minute drive.
- Chattanooga, Tennessee: Approximately 2-hour drive.
- Birmingham, Alabama: Around 2-hour drive.
- Nashville, Tennessee: Around 2.5-hour drive.
- Memphis, Tennessee: Approximately 4-hour drive.
These drive times are estimates and may vary based on specific starting points within each city. If you’re planning a visit, use the map above to input your specific starting point for the most accurate travel times and travel conditions.
Parking At Bethel Spring Nature Preserve
The gravel parking lot at Bethel Spring Nature Preserve is of decent size and can accommodate around 20 cars. The parking area can be easily accessed from Cherry Tree Road. Right next to the parking area, you’ll see a grassy area with a couple of picnic tables perfect for enjoying an outdoor meal.
You can easily spot the preserve’s trailhead from the parking lot making it simple to start your hike.
When Is The Best Time To Visit Bethel Spring Falls?
The best time to visit Bethel Spring Falls is between December and May. During these months, you can enjoy the trail comfortably, as the weather is generally pleasant for outdoor activities. The preserve offers a variety of natural wonders, and visiting during this period allows you to witness the beauty of the landscape without extreme temperatures or weather conditions.
We visited in early January and while it was more beautiful than my camera captured, everything was brown. I imagine this trail would be awesome to hike on a pretty spring day with flowers starting to bloom
I do not recomend hiking this trail after a rain storm. The boulders become very slick and the trail can get really muddy.
Keep in mind that the preserve is open from dawn to dusk daily, providing plenty of daylight hours for exploration and appreciation of the surroundings.
Bethel Falls Hiking Tips
Trail Conditions:
Be aware of the trail conditions, especially if it has rained recently. Some areas may be slippery and muddy, so be careful, especially with children.
Hiking Time:
Plan for the hike to take at least 1 hour, considering the 2.0-mile loop trail’s moderate hike difficulty.
Wildlife Awareness:
Bethel Spring Nature Preserve is a habitat for native wildlife. While exploring, be respectful of the environment and observe wildlife from a safe distance.
Did you know?
Bethel Spring Nature Preserve is home to federally endangered Indiana and Northern Long Eared Bats.
Take Breaks:
Pace yourself, and take breaks when needed, especially if you’re hiking with family members of varying fitness levels.
Not Stroller Friendly:
Most of the trails to get to Bethel Spring Falls are not stroller-friendly. The only one you might be able to push a stroller on is Bethel Creek Loop Trail.
Poison Ivy
Keep your eyes peeled for poison ivy. We didn’t see any but I read reviews where other people have.
Bathrooms
There are no bathrooms anywhere on this trail or in the parking lot. Make sure that everyone in your party uses the bathroom beforehand.
Dogs
Dogs are allowed but must be on a leash. We brought our dog and he did very well. He is scared of everything, so we had to help him over some of the boulders until he became brave.
What To Bring On Your Hike To Devil’s Bathtub
To ensure a comfortable and safe experience exploring Bethel Spring Falls, it’s important to be well-prepared. Here’s a checklist of what items to bring and wear for the hike:
Footwear:
Wear sturdy and comfortable hiking shoes with good traction. The trail involves varying terrain, including rocks and slippery surfaces.
My family wore tennis shoes but I wish we had worn our hiking boots because we rolled our ankles a few times due to the rocks.
Clothing:
Dress in layers appropriate for the weather. If you’re hiking during colder months, consider bringing a jacket. If hiking during the warmer months, consider moisture-wicking layers. They will keep you dry.
Hat, Sunglasses, Sunblock
Protect yourself from the sun by bringing hats, sunglasses and sunblock.
Backpack
Bring a backpack to carry all the essentials with you. We always use a hydration backpack and then fill it with everything else we need. It is more comfortable than hauling around water bottles.
Water
Bring plenty of water with you, especially during the summer months.
Snacks
Pack energy-boosting snacks to keep you fueled during your adventure.
Insect Repellant
Keep the pesky mosquitos and ticks away with insect repellant.
First Aid Kit
Carry a basic first aid kit with bandages, pain relievers, and any necessary medications.
Cell Phone
Bring a fully charged cell phone with emergency contacts saved.
Camera or Smartphone
Take pictures and videos to document your experience. You can also use your smartphone to access trail maps and other helpful hiking apps when needed.
Hiking Poles
Consider using hiking poles for stability, especially while hiking up the mountain.
History Of Bethel Spring Nature Preserve
Bethel Spring Nature Preserve, generously donated by sisters Doris McGee and Marcell Dean, spans 360 acres on Keel Mountain. Their contribution now supports the Land Trust of North Alabama’s efforts to preserve this picturesque landscape. The property is a habitat for native wildlife and serves as a potential roosting site for federally endangered bats. Bethel Creek, fed by the spring, hosts various aquatic species, including Flame Chub and Blackfin Darters.
The preserve’s main attraction, Bethel Spring Falls, which extends underground into Paul’s Cave, a 1,338-foot-long and 334-foot-deep cave listed on the Alabama Cave Survey.
Fun Fact – There are actually 3 caves on this 360 acre property. However, due to safety concerns and the delicate ecosystems, the property’s cave sites on Land Trust nature preserves are not open to the public without a permit.
Doris and Marcell’s legacy transformed their family property into a community treasure. Their commitment to preserving the mountain, farm, and natural features led to the Land Trust becoming stewards in 2014. Near the sisters’ former homesite, hosts a memorial with benches, providing a quiet spot for visitors to appreciate the extraordinary gift left by Doris and Marcell.
Things To Do Near Bethel Spring Nature Preserve
While exploring Bethel Spring Falls in Alabama, you might want to consider visiting these other nearby attractions.
Unclaimed Baggage:
The Unclaimed Baggage Center in Scottsboro is a unique shopping spot. Here, items from lost luggage find new homes, creating a one-of-a-kind collection of clothing, electronics, and more.
Stephens Gap Cave:
Stephens Gap Cave, located in Jackson County, features a 143-foot pit entrance with a waterfall, making it a popular destination for cave enthusiasts.
Monte Sano State Park:
Nestled in Alabama, Monte Sano State Park offers scenic trails and overlooks, making it a favored destination for those seeking outdoor tranquility.
Desoto Falls:
One of Northern Alabama’s most popular waterfalls, Desoto Falls.
Little River Canyon:
Little River Canyon National Preserve, located in Alabama, is a natural wonderland renowned for its deep gorge, stunning waterfalls, and abundant biodiversity.
Final Thoughts
Our moderate hike to Bethel Spring Falls, one of Alabama’s most beautiful waterfalls, was filled with stunning scenery, peaceful sounds of the water, and was fun and challenging.
This hike wasn’t our family’s favorite hike of all time but it was one of our favorite things that we did while in the Huntsville area.
Share your thoughts in the comments: Have you been to Bethel Spring Falls, or is it on your must-visit list? We’d love to hear about your outdoor escapades and any tips you have for fellow adventurers.
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