💦🐾 Exploring DeSoto Falls & the Ice Cave with Simba the Adventure Pup! Mentone, AL 🪨🌲

Hey trail friends! Ash here — and Simba the Adventure Pup and I are back with another epic Alabama waterfall stop, and this one packs a serious wow factor! 😍💦 We took on the short but exciting DeSoto Falls Bottom Trail in DeSoto State Park — complete with a detour to the mysterious Ice Cave near the base of the falls! 🐕🪨🌬️

If you love hidden caves, dramatic cliffs, and the sound of crashing water, this trail is 100% for you.

📍 Trail Overview

Location: DeSoto Falls – Mentone, AL
Trail: DeSoto Falls Bottom & Ice Cave Trail
Distance: ~1 mile round trip
Difficulty: Moderate (rocky + uneven terrain)
Dog-Friendly: Yes! Simba was a brave little explorer 🐾🐾
Highlights: DeSoto Falls base views, the Ice Cave, and rugged natural beauty 💧🪨

🥾 The Hike

This trail might be short, but it’s big on adventure. The path down to the base of DeSoto Falls includes rocky steps, uneven footing, and a couple of boulder-hopping moments that made Simba feel like a mountain goat 🐐🐶.

As we descended into the gorge, we could hear the thunder of the falls echoing through the trees — and then boom: DeSoto Falls in all its glory. 🌊 It's one of the most iconic waterfalls in Alabama, and seeing it from below is something special.

❄️ The Ice Cave

Tucked into the side of the rock wall just past the base of the falls is a small but very cool cave opening — nicknamed the Ice Cave. It stays chilly inside year-round, and it’s become a favorite stop for photos, shade breaks, and curious pups. 😉

Simba gave it a sniff, peered inside like the brave explorer he is, and decided the mossy rock outside was more his vibe. 😂

🐶 Dog-Friendly Trail Tips

✔️ Leash up — the terrain is rocky, and there are a few steep edges
✔️ Paw protection recommended if your pup has sensitive feet 🐾
✔️ Bring water & snacks — even short hikes need fuel!
✔️ Watch for loose footing — and take your time on the way back up
✔️ Cool off near the base — Simba loved the breeze and splash zone 💦

🚐 RV Travel Notes

• DeSoto State Park has RV sites with hookups, plus nearby trails and plenty of shade 🌲
• Trailhead parking for the falls is available — just be mindful it can fill up on weekends
• Only about 15 minutes from Mentone, a cute mountain town with local eats and small shops 🍳🏞️

🎥 Watch the Full Adventure


In this week’s video, we:

🎬 Tackle the rocky descent
🐶 Explore the base of DeSoto Falls
❄️ Peek inside the Ice Cave
📸 Capture some golden retriever glory in front of the falls

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📲 Follow us on all platforms: @lifeonpawsandwheels

✨ Why We Loved This Trail

✔️ Big reward for a short distance
✔️ Waterfall + cave = double the adventure
✔️ Great for dogs who love to explore
✔️ Unique views you can’t get from the overlook
✔️ One of the coolest (literally!) spots in North Alabama 🌬️💦

Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, traveling with your pup, or just love discovering hidden trails, DeSoto Falls + the Ice Cave is a must-hike experience. 🐾💚

Until next time — stay curious, stay safe, and keep those paws on the trail!
– Ash & Simba 🐕✨

Location: Mentone, AL, USA

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