Mentone, AL
This time, we’re delving into the past and exploring the historic town of Mentone in the great state of Alabama! Mentone’s charm lies in its ability to preserve the essence of small-town mountain life. Whether it’s the echo of children’s laughter from summer camps, the memories of quiet mornings in a mountain cabin, or the sight of hand-painted signs on roadside markets, Mentone embodies a more straightforward time many people long for. It’s a place where families return generation after generation to relive treasured moments, reconnect with nature, and experience the warmth of a historic mountain village that time seems to have gently passed by.
Why Visit Mentone?
Historical Aspect
Highlights of Mentone’s History
- Madoc Legend: A captivating but disputed tale suggests that Welsh prince Madoc may have explored the area in 1170, leaving remnants of fortifications in caves near DeSoto Falls.
- Cherokee Heritage: Mentone was once part of the Cherokee Nation. It is especially significant because Sequoyah, the brilliant mind behind the
Cherokee written language, lived nearby, leaving a lasting cultural imprint. This connection makes Mentone a meaningful place for those interested in Native American history. - Civil War Connections: During the Civil War, Mentone saw activity as Union troops moved through the area during their 1863 campaign, although it did not witness major battles. The rugged terrain of Lookout Mountain played a role in military strategies, particularly during the Chattanooga and Chickamauga campaigns.
- Resort Origins: In the 1880s, Ed Mason promoted it as a health resort, believing that the town’s mineral springs possessed curative properties. This led to the development of hotels and resorts that attracted visitors seeking relaxation and healing in the crisp mountain air.
Natural Attractions
DeSoto Falls: Visiting DeSoto Falls in Mentone, Alabama, is a must for
nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. This breathtaking waterfall, one of the tallest and most scenic in Alabama, plunges over 100 feet into a crystal-clear pool surrounded by rugged cliffs and lush forest. The serene atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for relaxation, photography, and enjoying the beauty of the Appalachian foothills. With easy access via a short, paved trail, visitors of all ages can experience its grandeur without a strenuous hike. Nearby, DeSoto State Park offers hiking trails, picnic spots, and camping opportunities, making it an ideal destination for a day trip or a weekend getaway. Whether you’re captivated by the roar of the falls, the vibrant autumn foliage, or the peaceful setting, DeSoto Falls is a hidden gem that showcases the natural beauty of Alabama.
Lookout Mountain Parkway: Lookout Mountain Parkway in Mentone, Alabama, is a scenic drive that offers breathtaking views, charming small towns, and outdoor adventures. Stretching across Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee, this picturesque route winds through lush forests, rolling hills, and stunning overlooks, making it a perfect escape for nature lovers and road trippers. Along the way, visitors can explore waterfalls like DeSoto Falls, hike trails in DeSoto State Park, or stop by quaint shops, art galleries, and cozy cafés in Mentone. The parkway is especially stunning in the fall when the foliage transforms into a vibrant display of reds, oranges, and yellows. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful drive, an outdoor adventure, or a taste of Southern hospitality, Lookout Mountain Parkway offers a memorable experience in one of Alabama’s most beautiful regions.
Culture and Local Attractions
1. A Timeless Mountain Village
Mentone is often described as a “step back in time” due to its preserved, rustic atmosphere. The town’s small-sized, historic buildings and lack of commercialization give it a quaint, old-fashioned feel. Visitors fondly recall winding mountain roads, vintage cabins, and the slower pace of life that’s rare in modern times.
2. Historic Summer Camps
Mentone is known for its long history of summer camps, which began in the early 20th century. Camps like Camp DeSoto (established in 1925) and Camp Skyline have welcomed generations of children who return year after year. Many families have cherished memories of carefree summers spent in the Mentone woods, making friendships, enjoying outdoor activities, and experiencing the magic of campfires under the stars. Mentone represents a nostalgic connection to childhood and simpler, joyful times for many.
3. The Lookout Mountain Hotel
Once known as the “Grand Hotel,” the Lookout Mountain Hotel opened in the 1920s as a luxurious resort during the Roaring Twenties. It drew wealthy visitors seeking cool mountain air and panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. Though the hotel no longer stands as it once did, its legacy lingers in the town’s history, and remnants can still be explored. For many, Mentone remains symbolic of that golden age of mountain tourism.
4. Arts, Crafts, and Handmade Traditions
Mentone is known for its vibrant arts and crafts community, deeply rooted in nostalgia for handmade traditions and local artistry. Visitors often recall wandering through antique stores, art galleries, and shops filled with locally made pottery, quilts, and folk art. Events like the Mentone Colorfest celebrate the town’s artistic heritage and bring back the feeling of simpler, community-centered times.
5. Scenic Beauty and Romantic Getaways
The surrounding natural beauty of Mentone, with its rolling mountain vistas, waterfalls, and forests, has long made it a nostalgic destination for couples and families. Spots like DeSoto Falls, one of Alabama’s most beautiful waterfalls, and the serene Little River Canyon offer moments of reflection and peace. Visitors have come to Mentone for decades to spend quiet weekends in cozy log cabins or quaint bed-and-breakfasts, creating lifelong memories.
6. DeSoto State Park & Outdoor Traditions
DeSoto State Park, located near Mentone, is steeped in nostalgia for outdoor lovers. For generations, the park has been a haven for hiking, fishing, picnicking,
and camping. Families often pass down traditions of visiting the park, exploring its trails, or enjoying the beauty of the Little River. There is so much to do and see, so be sure to carve some time out to walk around and enjoy the natural beauty!
7. Local Charm and Community
Mentone’s community spirit contributes to its nostalgic charm. The town hosts events like the annual Rhododendron Festival and other small-town gatherings that foster connections between visitors and locals. Its small cafes, such as the popular Wildflower Café, are cozy spots that transport visitors to a time when life was slower and more personal.
8. A Place to Unplug and Reconnect
Many visitors associate Mentone with a time before modern distractions. Little cell service in parts of the area encourages visitors to unplug and reconnect with family, nature, and themselves. This “escape” has a timeless appeal and makes Mentone feel like a sanctuary from the modern world.
Places to Eat in Mentone
Hunt Brothers Pizza: Hunt Brothers® Pizza is a story of four brothers bringing to life the American dream for their families and their customers. Don, Lonnie, Jim, and Charlie Hunt got their start on a long journey in the food business at a young age, working for their father at Austin’s Drive-In. In 1991, the brothers combined each of their decades of experience and knowledge in the pizza and convenience store industries, founding the company now known as Hunt Brothers Pizza. Today, the company remains family-owned, with the next generation of the Hunt family ensuring the brothers’ core mission of being a blessing remains the same.
Wildflower Cafe: Enjoy a great meal in our hippie-chic dining areas while
being entertained by talented local musicians! The Wildflower Café’s dedicated staff treats you like family and is committed to providing you with an enjoyable dining experience. Visit our Country Store for locally handmade pottery, jewelry, clothing, local artwork, handmade cards, Good Stuff cacao, bath and body products, candles, books, and various other gift items and mementos.
RV Parks 
1776 RV and Campground:
1776 RV and Campground offers 14 full-hookup RV sites. Each site has a picnic bench, a stone fire ring, a BBQ grill for your enjoyment, and a central bonfire ring. We also have 10 tent sites with power, water, stone fire rings, and BBQ grills, as well as a central bonfire ring. And, if you don’t have an RV, we also have RV rentals on site. There is a babbling brook and pond in the rear of the park, and clean, modern bathrooms are centrally located. Having visited many parks over the years, we can say this park has a special, relaxing feel to it that we think you’ll enjoy. The campground is located just minutes from the DeSoto Falls and DeSoto State Park.
Tranquility Campground:
Tranquility RV & Campgrounds is located in a quiet heavily wooded setting with plenty of separation between the sites.
Camping is equally popular by both RV’s, tents and pop-ups for peace and relaxation. While the campground has a remote feel, it is actually within 10 minutes of a variety of restaurants and activities.
Modern Mentone & Local Festivals
Today, Mentone offers visitors a blend of mountain cabins, cozy bed-and-breakfast inns, unique shops, dining experiences, and breathtaking natural scenery.
Nearby DeSoto State Park draws outdoor enthusiasts with its stunning landscapes, waterfalls, hiking trails, and recreational facilities, including a lodge, cabins, and campgrounds.
Annual Events
Mentone is also known for its lively annual events, including:
The Rhododendron Festival: The Rhododendron Festival is a cherished yearly event in Mentone, Alabama, celebrating the vibrant bloom of native rhododendrons and the rich cultural heritage of the region. Traditionally held during the third weekend of May, the festival brings together locals and visitors for a weekend filled with arts, crafts, music, and community festivities.
Event Details:
Location: North Cool Street, Mentone, Alabama.
Dates: Traditionally the third weekend in May.
Admission: Free, with donations welcome.
Parking: Available for a nominal fee, with free shuttles transporting attendees to the festival site.
Fall Color Fest (third weekend in October)
The Mentone Fall Festival, formerly known as the Colorfest, is a cherished annual event in Mentone, Alabama. It celebrates the vibrant autumn foliage and the town’s rich cultural heritage. Traditionally held on the third weekend of October, the festival offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages.
Festival Highlights:Arts and Crafts: Local artisans showcase their handcrafted goods, providing unique shopping opportunities for attendees.
Live Music: The festival features performances by regional musicians, offering a diverse range of musical genres throughout the event.
Children’s Activities: Family-friendly activities are available to engage younger visitors, ensuring fun for the whole family.
Food Vendors: A variety of food options are provided by local vendors, allowing attendees to sample regional cuisine and festival favorites.
Event Details:
Location: Moon Lake Village, 2866 East River Road, Mentone, Alabama 35984.
Dates: Traditionally the third weekend in October.
- Admission: Free, with donations appreciated to support festival expenses and the maintenance of the historic Moon Lake School building.
Real Life Family Stories!
The Miller Family
The Millers spent a crisp October weekend in Mentone, hiking at DeSoto Falls and marveling at the vibrant fall colors. They explored the local artisan shops, picking up handmade pottery and wooden carvings before grabbing lunch at the Wildflower Café. Their kids loved watching glassblowers create art right before their eyes.
The Thompson Family
On a summer road trip, the Thompsons took a detour to Mentone and fell in love with the town’s charm. They picnicked by the Little River, took a scenic drive along Lookout Mountain, and ended the day eating homemade fudge from a roadside stand. The quiet, laid-back atmosphere made them promise to return.
The Ramirez Family
The Ramirezes visited Mentone for the Fall Festival, where they enjoyed live bluegrass music and browsed through booths of local crafts. Their son tried his first funnel cake, dusted with powdered sugar, while their daughter danced barefoot in the grass. As the sun set, they took a slow drive up to Brow Park to watch the valley glow in golden light.
Final Thoughts for The Smart RVer
Mentone remains a beloved stop along the Lookout Mountain Parkway, blending its rich history with the natural beauty of Lookout Mountain. So be sure to plan your next family RV trip to Mentone!
Disclaimer: Some of these photos have been generated by AI to comply with Copyright Law. Thank you for understanding.