Desoto Falls – Mentone, AL

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This rural waterfall is said to be haunted by Nancy Dollar, known as Granny, who passed away in January 1931 when she was 108 years old. After her death, her beloved dog, Buster, was put to sleep and buried alongside his master. Shortly thereafter, the old mountain woman and her dog were seen walking through the woods around this rural waterfall or near the ruins of her old cabin. Legend says she was looking for justice.

Shortly before her burial, some thieves stole the old woman’s savings, which she had been saving so she could buy a proper headstone. Her restless spirit rose in search of the thieves and the lost money. She was sighted so frequently that her neighbors finally bought her a proper headstone in 1973. Reports say that Granny seems to have been appeased by this, but they say her dog still appears.

Mentone is in eastern DeKalb County, just off I-59 on Highway 117.

You can find out more about Desoto Falls here.

Visiting DeSoto Falls

The falls sit on the West Fork of Little River at the north end of DeSoto State Park, a short drive from Mentone on Lookout Mountain. There is a parking area and an overlook, and the trails nearby are an easy autumn walk when the leaves turn. Park hours and access can change, so check with the state park before you go, and stay behind the railings: the rocks near the edge are steep and slick.

FAQ

Who is the ghost at DeSoto Falls?

Local legend says it is Nancy “Granny” Dollar, a mountain woman who lived to a great age, along with her dog Buster.

Is the ghost still seen?

The story goes that Granny was content once her neighbors bought her a headstone, but people still tell of a dog seen on the trail.

What else is haunted nearby?

Alabama has plenty more. Read about Lucas Tavern in Montgomery and the legend of Railroad Bill, or plan a whole weekend with our Alabama haunted road trip.