Alabama Bound
The state's abundant natural beauty perhaps is best showcased in this mountainous region. Mentone is a picture-pretty little town at the intersection of Alabama State 117 and County 89, with several shops and galleries. Hungry? We're partial to the fried catfish platter ($7.99) at Dessie's, about a quarter mile from the intersection.

Continue south on County 89 to DeSoto State Park, a 3,000-acre property highlighted by DeSoto Falls, which cascades 104 feet into a rocky canyon formed by the Little River. Ten miles of hiking trails lead through deep woods to scenic views of rock cliffs and waterfalls.

Little River Canyon National Preserve, 8 miles down Alabama State 35, ranks among the prettiest, lesser-known areas in the state. Pull into the parking lot at G. E. Hill Bridge for an up close look at Little River Falls, which tumbles 45 feet at the canyon's entrance. Then cross back over the bridge, and turn left on Alabama State 176 for a drive along the canyon's rim.

If you have time for only one stop, turn off I-59 at Exit 188 for Noccalula Falls in Gadsden. It's not quite as impressive as the other natural wonders along the highway, but there's something about the sound of water cascading down a ledge that holds endless appeal--especially in autumn.

Directions: To get to the Lookout Mountain Scenic Highway from I-24 in Chattanooga, take the Lookout Mountain Exit 178 to South Broad; continue along Tennessee Avenue to the Ochs Highway (you'll see the signs for Rock City/Incline Railway). From I-59 in Birmingham, take Exit 188 to Noccalula Falls Park/Gadsden; then turn left on Tabor Road.

Attractions

• Cloudland Canyon State Park: 122 Cloudland Canyon Park Road, Rising Fawn, GA 30738; (706) 657-4050. Hours: 7 a.m.-10 p.m. daily.
• DeSoto State Park: 13883 County 89, Fort Payne, AL 35967; (256) 845-0051. Hours: open 24 hours daily.
• Little River Canyon National Preserve: Alabama State 176, Mentone; (256) 845-9605. Hours: sunrise to sunset daily.
• Noccalula Falls Park: 1500 Noccalula Road, Gadsden, AL 35902; (256) 549-4663. Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. daily.
• Reflection Riding Arboretum & Botanical Garden: (423) 821-9582. Chattanooga Nature Center: (423) 821-1160. Both are at 400 Garden Road, Chattanooga, TN 37419. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Saturday; 1-5 p.m. Sunday.
• Rock City Gardens: 1400 Patten Road, Lookout Mountain, GA 30750; 1-800-854-0675. Hours: 8:30 a.m.-6 p.m. daily.

LODGING
Chattanooga area

• Chanticleer Inn: 1300 Mockingbird Lane, Lookout Mountain, GA 30750; toll free 1-866-777-1045. A charming, 17-room inn next to Rock City Gardens; rates range $100-$195.
• Cloudland Canyon State Park: Basic cottages range $85-$115; 1-800-864-7275 or www.georgiastateparks.org.

Northeast Alabama

• DeSoto State Park: Lodge rates $70, cabins and chalets $75-$110; 1-800-568-8840.

A NOTE TO OUR READERS:
"Road Trip to Fall Color" is from the October 2004 issue of Southern Living. Because prices, dates, and other specifics are subject to change, please check all information to make sure it's still current before making your travel plans.