About this city
Also known as: Sock Capital of the World
Perched near the base of Lookout Mountain in northeastern Alabama, Fort Payne serves as the county seat of DeKalb County. Originally a major settlement of the Cherokee Nation, its modern history began in the 1830s when a military fort was erected here during the tragic Trail of Tears Cherokee relocation period. The city experienced an extraordinary industrial boom in the late 19th century due to iron mining investments, followed by a transition into textile production that earned it the title of the 'Sock Capital of the World' for producing a massive percentage of global hosiery during the 20th century. Today, Fort Payne is celebrated as a premier gateway to outdoor recreation, surrounded by dramatic rock formations, waterfalls, and steep river canyons.
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Practical Tourism Metadata
Suggested stay: 1–2 days
Hike the scenic mountain paths and see the deep gorges at Little River Canyon National Preserve. View the stunning cascades at DeSoto State Park. Visit the Fort Payne Depot Museum to learn about local Native American and industrial history.
