Dismals Canyon Glow Worms: A Family Weekend in Alabama

Did you know that you can see Glow Worms at Dismals Canyon in Alabama?  The only other place to see glow worms is in Australia and New Zealand.  No need to travel across the world!  When I read that I could see glow worms only a 4-hour drive from Atlanta – I had to see them for myself. Alabama’s glow worms are colloquially known as Dismalites due to their home deep inside Dismals Canyon in northwestern corner of the state. 

However, glow worms are not the only point of interest at Dismal’s Canyon.  The canyon is a spectacular hike during the day as well.  I recommend hiking the canyon during the day and returning in the evening for a guided Night Tour to see the glow worms.

Our Weekend at Dismals Canyon

Tucked away in the heart of northern Alabama, Dismals Canyon is a hidden gem that feels like stepping into another world. My family and I spent a weekend in early October in a cabin, surrounded by the serene seclusion of this natural wonder.

During the day, we hiked the canyon’s trails.  We discovered Rainbow Falls, Secret Falls, and the mysterious Witch’s Cavern.  We learned about the canyon’s history including the Chickasaw Indians and their forced departure on Trail of Tears.

But the real magic happened at night on the Dismalite Tour, where we witnessed the enchanting glow of Dismals Canyon’s glow worms, a rare natural spectacle that left us in awe. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, or looking for a unique family adventure, a trip to Dismals Canyon promises memories that glow long after the sun sets.

Planning Your Visit to Dismals Canyon

Visiting Dismals Canyon and the glow worms takes a bit of advanced planning, but the effort is worth it for a unique adventure. One important tip: reservations are not available online, so you’ll need to call ahead to book your stay. I reserved a cabin at the beginning of October for my family.  It offered a cozy, private spot tucked away in the canyon’s quiet wilderness. In addition to the cabins, Dismals Canyon offers camping, which is a popular option for scout troops and families looking for an immersive nature experience.

The canyon attracts a mix of visitors, from adults, families with children to scout groups, especially on the guided Dismalite Night Tour. If you’re traveling with kids or just want to enjoy the glow worms, this destination makes for a fun, family-friendly trip. 

If you live in Birmingham, Dismals Canyon is an easy day trip, otherwise, I recommend spending the night.  If you are not staying in a cabin, then you must book your guided Dismalite Night Tour in advance by phone.  Call on Sunday before the upcoming weekend to reserve your night tour via credit card over the phone 205-993-4559.  The operating schedule changes, so it is important to confirm timing and availability before you travel.

Where to Stay

Dismals Canyon offers camping on-site and two cabins.  My family stayed in one of the 2-bedroom cabins.  Our cabin had a queen-sized bed in one room and 4 bunk beds in the other room.  The earlier you call to reserve your stay, the more likely you are to book it.  Be prepared to pay by credit card over the phone.  Confirm that night tours of the glow worms will be available when you book your stay if your goal is to see the Dismalites.  Check in for cabins and camping at the General Store.

Dismals Canyon Cabins

There is a 2-night minimum stay for the cabins on regular weekends and a 3-night minimum stay for holiday weekends.  Check in time is between 4 and 5pm (central time) on most days. However, we were able to extend that window by contacting the staff and keeping them updated on our arrival time when we drove from Atlanta on a Friday night after school.  There is no cell service or internet in the cabin, but there is a landline for emergencies and satellite TV.  You must call to reserve the cabins 205-993-4559.  Dismals Canyon does not accept online reservations. 

If you stay in a cabin, you are guaranteed a spot on the Guided Night Tour to see the glow worms or Dismalites. 

Dismals Canyon Primitive Campgrounds

A limited number of private campsites are accessible via a short hike from the main parking lot.  A bathhouse is available near the main parking lot.  Bring your tent and camping supplies.  Standard tent sites and group tent sites are available.  Call to reserve your campsite in advance 205-993-4559. 

RV Camping

Dismals Canyon does not accommodate RV camping, however, there are RV Campgrounds nearby.

• Twin Forks Campgrounds, Haleyville, AL
• Black Bear Cove RV Campground, Haleyville, AL

What to Bring

If you are taking a night tour, then you should bring a flashlight or a head lamp with a red filter.  The red filter is especially important for the glow worm night tour.  We didn’t bring a red light and that was a mistake!  Red light helps you navigate the trail in the dark without compromising your night vision.  Your eyes must be adjusted to the darkness to see the glow worms!

• Bring a water bottle with you on the trail.  Wear hiking shoes that can get dirty because the canyon floor may be muddy and wet. 
• Pack food so you can prepare meals during your visit to Dismals Canyon to see the glow worms.  There is a country store that includes a Soda Fountain.  When the soda fountain is open it offers sandwiches, drinks, and sweet treats including ice cream and shakes. 
• Prepare to unplug!  Bring a book or a deck of cards to entertain yourself without internet in this remote location.

What is available at Dismals Canyon?

The Country Store serves as a hub at Dismals Canyon.  Here you can check in for your cabin or camping.  It Is also where you pay admission and register for your wrist band to access to the canyon floor.  You must go through the Country Store to access the canyon.  You also check in here for the Night Tour to see the Glow Worms. 

There is a Soda Fountain here if you need something to eat.  Plus, there is an amazing outdoor space to hang out and relax. 

The Country Store sells red flashlights and other items that you may have forgotten, plus Dismals Canyon t-shirts, candy and other unique merchandise. 

The best cell coverage on the property is in the main parking lot near the Country Store. 

Daytime Adventure in Dismals Canyon

Exploring Dismals Canyon during the day is a treat for both nature lovers and history enthusiasts. After a short hike down a steep trail into the canyon, we were immediately surrounded by towering sandstone cliffs, abundant foliage, and the peaceful sound of flowing water.  It is a perfect escape from the city.  My family spent an hour and fifteen minutes hiking through the canyon.

Do not touch the canyon walls – especially the walls covered with moss.  This is where the glow worms live!  Humans touch destroys their habitat.

Hiking Trails and Natural Wonders

The canyon offers several stunning spots:

• Rainbow Falls – A remarkable waterfall that historically powered a mill. The cascading water over the rocks creates a rainbow on sunny days.
• Secret Falls – Hidden away in a natural arboretum, this waterfall emerges from an underground stream, giving it a magical, secluded feel.
• Witch’s Cavern – A mysterious group of rock formations covered in moss and ferns which create a sense of intrigue.  It is the perfect place for kids to explore and imagine local legends.
• Each of these spots is accessible via trails that are manageable for families, making it easy to enjoy. 

Discovering the History of the Canyon

While the natural beauty of Dismals Canyon is unforgettable, the canyon’s history adds a meaningful layer to your visit. Paleoamericans used the canyon for sacred rituals and gatherings roughly 10,000 years ago.  The Chickasaw Indians also used the canyon as a campground and for ceremonial gatherings.  Sadly, they were held captive in the canyon before their forced departure along the Trail of Tears.

The Scotch-Irish settlers who named the canyon, may have named it after a place in Scotland named Dismals. Legends suggest that both Jesse James and Aaron Burr hid in the canyon.  The trail map helped us connect the landscape with its historical significance.

Tips for Day Hikes

• Wear comfortable shoes (that can get dirty) and bring water for the trails.
• Start early in the day to fully enjoy the canyon before dusk.
• Take your time at each waterfall and special rock formation.  These spots are ideal for photos and quiet moments of reflection.
• Keep an eye out for wildlife; the canyon is home to many native birds and small animals.

From cascading waterfalls to hidden caverns and incredible stories, Dismals Canyon offers a daytime adventure that combines natural beauty with cultural significance.  A day hike in the canyon is magical on its own without the glow worms!

Experiencing the Glow Worms

All about the Dismalites

North American Orfelia fultoni are a bioluminescent gnat larva that are colloquially known as Dismalites because so many live in the canyon.  Dismals Canyon is home to the largest population of these glow worms in North America because it provides the perfect habitat for these unique insects to thrive. 

These nocturnal creatures radiate a blue-green light from their heads and their bottoms while they are in their larvae state.  Their goal is to attract flying insects to their spider-like webs to enjoy as a meal.  This glow worm period lasts for approximately 6 months.  They live as an adult for a single day.  On this day, they reproduce and then they die.  The glow worms do not like warm temperatures.  If it has been warm, do not expect to see many Dismalites. 

Glow worms have two seasons.  Spring season lasts from April until early June.  The fall season runs from September into October.  My night tour guide explained that the absolute peak time to see the Dismalites glowing is the first weekend in June.  We did not see as many glow worms as I hoped when we visited on the first weekend of October.  It had been warm – which the glow worms do not like. 

The Dismalite Tour

After the sun sets over Dismals Canyon, the landscape transforms into a magical world illuminated by one of nature’s rarest spectacles: Dismals Canyon glow worms. Our family joined the Dismalite Night Tour in the evening.  Witnessing the tiny larvae emitting their soft, green glow was truly unforgettable.

As we began the night tour, we saw bioluminescent firefly larvae in Rainbow Falls – which was a surprise bonus.  There was a young scout group on our tour, and the kids kept their white flashlights on most of the time, which made it difficult for my eyes to properly adjust to the darkness. I saw the Dismalites glowing the most clearly in the Witch’s Cavern.  I beat the scout group and their flashlights to this spot.  Here, I saw the glow worms twinkling on the wall. 

I can only imagine what the Native Americans must have thought when they experienced this phenomenon so many years ago.  I am sure that they thought it was nothing short of magic!  I learned later that the largest concentration of glow worms live in Witch’s Cavern.

The Dismalite Tour: What to Expect

• It is incredibly dark in Dismals Canyon, which is important for bioluminescent creatures survival.
• Guided by knowledgeable staff, the tour takes you through the canyon trails at night to see the glow worms in their natural habitat.
• The glow worms, called Dismalites, are in their larvae stage, creating a sparkling canopy along the canyon walls.
• Tours are family-friendly and often include children, making for a lively atmosphere.  Dismals Canyon recommends that children be at least 12-years old to get the most out of the glow worm tour.

Dismals Canyon Glow Worm Facts

• Dismalites produce light to attract prey, creating a natural “glow” that’s mesmerizing in the dark.
• Dismals Canyon is one of the few places in the United States where these glow worms can be seen in their natural environment.
• The blackness of Dismals Canyon at night is important because the glow is best viewed in complete darkness.  Leave bright white lights behind – including the flashlight on your phone.

Nighttime Tips

• Bring a red flashlight or headlamp – it preserves your night vision and helps you navigate safely without disturbing the glow worms.
• Dress warmly, as temperatures can drop in the canyon after sunset.
• Keep quiet and move slowly to fully enjoy the magical ambiance.
• Photography is challenging – our guide joked that the only way to get a photo of the glow worms was to take a screenshot from their website or social media.  Photography would require a long exposure on a tripod to capture the glow.  Call Dismals Canyon to inquire about your options if you are a serious photographer. 

Family-Friendly Tips for Visiting Dismals Canyon

Visiting Dismals Canyon is an adventure the whole family can enjoy, combining natural beauty, history, and the magical glow of the Dismalite glow worms. Here are practical tips to help you plan your trip.

Family-Friendly Tips

• Children 8 and Up: Trails are suitable for children, though younger kids may need help with steeper sections.  Dismals Canyon recommends that children be at least 12-years old to get the most out of the glow worm tour.
• Pace Yourself: Spend the day exploring waterfalls and caverns, then rest before the night tour.
• Engage Kids in History: Use the canyon’s stories about Aaron Burr, Jesse James, the Chickasaw Indians and the Trail of Tears to turn your hike into a learning opportunity.
• Safety First: Wear sturdy shoes, bring water, and watch for uneven terrain.
• Night Tour Preparedness: Bring a red flashlight, dress warmly, and keep children close to enjoy the glow worm experience safely.  Do not allow your children to blind others on the tour with white flashlights.

Why Dismals Canyon Glow Worms Are a Must-See

Our weekend at Dismals Canyon was an unforgettable mix of adventure, history, and natural wonder. From hiking canyon trails that revealed Rainbow Falls, Secret Falls, and Witch’s Cavern, to learning about the Chickasaw Indians’ history, the canyon offered experiences that engaged both our minds and our senses.

But the highlight of our trip was undoubtedly the Dismals Canyon glow worms. Seeing these tiny creatures illuminate the canyon walls on the Dismalite Tour was pure magic. Even with a crowd of families and scouts, the enchanting glow of the Dismalites made the evening unforgettable.

For families, nature lovers, or anyone looking for a unique weekend getaway, a trip to Dismals Canyon in Alabama offers something for everyone: scenic hikes, historical insights, and a rare opportunity to witness one of nature’s most enchanting spectacles.

Plan your visit today: call ahead to reserve a cabin or campsite, pack your hiking shoes and red flashlight, and prepare to experience the magic of the Dismals Canyon glow worms for yourself. Your adventure into this hidden Alabama gem awaits!

Frequently Asked Questions About Dismals Canyon and Glow Worms

Where is Dismals Canyon, Alabama?

Dismals Canyon is in northwestern Alabama, near the town of Phil Campbell.  It is known for its secluded, natural setting and the glow worms who make the canyon their home.  Click here for directions and maps.

How to see glow worms in the U.S.?

Dismals Canyon is one of the only places in the United States where glow worms, or Dismalites, can be seen in their natural habitat. It is unique because guided night tours are offered to safely view them.  No need to travel across the world to New Zealand or Australia!

Can you hike and see the canyon one day?

Yes! The daytime trails in the canyon to Rainbow Falls, Secret Falls, and Witch’s Cavern are accessible in a couple hours, leaving time to rest before the evening glow worm tour.

When is the best time to visit?

The glow worms are visible from late spring through fall, with fall visits offering fewer crowds and colorful foliage.  My night tour guide explained that the absolute peak time to see the Dismalites glowing is the first weekend in June. 

Is Dismals Canyon good for kids?

Absolutely! Many families and scout groups camp or stay in cabins. The daytime hikes and night tours provide a fun, educational, and safe adventure for older children (8-years old and up).  Dismals Canyon recommends that children be at least 12-years old to get the most out of the glow worm tour.

Can you bring your dog?

Yes, but please keep your pets on a leash.

Is Dismals Canyon a National Park?

The National Park Service designated Dismals Canyon a National Natural Landmark, BUT it is a privately owned and operated Natural Conservatory.

When is Dismal’s Canyon Open?

The Canyon is open seasonally beginning in mid-March through November.

Where Else in the World can you see glow worms?

Beyond Dismals Canyon near Phil Campbell, Alabama, you can see glow worms in New Zealand and Austria.  These glowing insects are also the larvae of a fungus gnat.

• Waitomo Glowworm Caves, New Zealand
• Spellbound Glowworm Cave Tour, New Zealand
• Te Anau Glowworm Caves, New Zealand
• Wellington Botanic Garden, New Zealand – seasonal tours
• Tamborine Mountain, Australia
• Natural Bridge Glow Worm Tour, Australia
• Glow Worm Tunnel in Wollemi National Park, Australia

By following these tips and knowing what to expect, families can fully enjoy the mix of hiking, history, and nocturnal magic that makes Dismals Canyon a unique weekend getaway.