PHIL CAMPBELL-Tucked away near the tiny town of Phil Campbell, Alabama, is a natural wonder like no other, Dismals Canyon. Designated as a National Natural Landmarks Program by the U.S. Department of Interior, the canyon is a privately-owned natural terrain trail. Deep in the canyon is the grandeur that got it classified as a National Natural Landmark. Many native plant life species such as Hemlock, Tulip Poplar, Sweetgum and Big Leaf Magnolia line the floor of the canyon making it a biological and geological gem. In fact, botanists have identified more than 350 exotic flora on the canyon’s floor.
Dismals Canyon also has become famously known for its Dismalites, a select species of ‘glowworms’ that are kin to the
New Zealand glowworms. These glowworms have to have a special habitat to survive in and are unique to this part of the South. These species glow green and blue in order to attract food. They have been classified as Orfelia Fultoni and what makes them unique to this area is the vast number of them that can be found on the canyon wall.
If you go to explore the area yourself, make sure you take it all in, especially at night when you can’t tell the difference between where the glowworms illuminate and the stars begin. Dismals Canyon is a perfect escape for anyone looking to wind down.
The Canyon Floor:
The 1.5-mile hiking trail follows along the stream with boulders, waterfalls, mossy green ferns, natural bridges and giant trees. The area was a sanctuary to many Native American tribes such as the Cherokee, Paleo and Chickasaw. Visitors also will have the opportunity to explore the Temple Cave, a bluff that was home to the Paleoamericans.
Country Store and Soda Fountain:
This old-fashioned general store has candy, t-shirts, Native American goods, gifts and postcards visitors can purchase to remember their time at Dismals Canyon. The Soda Fountain is known for its sandwiches, specialty drinks, ice cream and milkshakes. Many visitors work up an appetite after exploring the canyon floor.
Cabins:
There are two cabins for rent throughout the year. The Bringing Up the Moon and Bringing Down the Sun cabins are located on the north end of the conservatory to ensure privacy. The cabins are constructed inside and out with Western Red Cedar. They have a fireplace, two bedrooms, a bathroom and a full kitchen. Pets are allowed for a fee. Note: There is no cell service in the cabins.
Camping:
Scattered throughout the canyon, and to protect its pristine beauty, are campsites designed for the ultimate outdoor experience. There are restrooms and a bathhouse for campers to use. Sleeping Water is a campsite that gives campers their own waterfall experience.
Spa and Massages:
Swedish Massages, Mini Facials, and Brown Sugar Body Scrubs are offered to cabin guests, day guests, and campers for purchase and by appointment only.
Media Release/
Alabama Tourism Department
