About Walls of Jericho
The Walls of Jericho, often called the "Grand Canyon of the South," is one of the most spectacular natural areas in the southeastern United States. This breathtaking 6.6-mile roundtrip trail descends over 1,000 feet into a pristine canyon, revealing towering limestone bluffs, lush forests, and a stunning natural amphitheater.
Located on the border of Alabama and Tennessee within the Skyline Wildlife Management Area, this trail offers hikers an unforgettable wilderness experience. The canyon's unique microclimate supports diverse plant life, including rare ferns and wildflowers found nowhere else in the region.
Trail Distance
Roundtrip to the canyon floor and back
Elevation Change
Steep descent and challenging return climb
Estimated Time
Allow extra time for photography stops
Difficulty
Challenging due to elevation and terrain
Why You Need an Offline Map
The Walls of Jericho trail is located in a remote area with no cell phone coverage. We strongly recommend downloading an offline map before you leave home.
- Navigation safety – The trail has multiple confusing junctions, especially near the canyon floor where several paths diverge
- Tracking your progress – Know exactly how far you've hiked and how much farther to your destination
- Emergency preparedness – Mark your location in case you need to retrace your steps or call for help
Trail Highlights
- The Natural Amphitheater – A stunning 200-foot limestone bowl at the canyon's heart
- Turkey Creek – Crystal-clear stream perfect for cooling off (seasonal)
- Limestone Bluffs – Towering 150+ foot cliffs with ancient rock formations
- Diverse Wildlife – Home to wild turkeys, white-tailed deer, and over 100 bird species
Planning Your Hike
Best Time to Visit: Spring (March-May) for wildflowers and waterfalls, or fall (September-November) for cooler temperatures and fall foliage. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter offers solitude but potentially icy trail conditions.
What to Bring: Plenty of water (at least 2 liters per person), sturdy hiking boots with ankle support, trekking poles for the steep descent/ascent, snacks, and a charged phone with offline maps.
Trailhead Access: The main trailhead is accessible from Paint Rock, Alabama. A day-use permit may be required – check with the Alabama Department of Conservation for current regulations.
Recommended Mapping Tools
To hike this trail safely, we recommend using trusted apps like AllTrails, Gaia GPS, or Organic Maps. Search for "Walls of Jericho" in any of these apps to download the trail data for offline use.