Southern hospitality and outdoor adventures await in Alabama. From the Gulf Coast to the wooded parks around Birmingham, there are plenty of pockets of wild to explore in the Dixie State.
Take the 60-foot dive into the waters of Lake Martin at Acapulco Rock. This adventure is accessible only by water, so rent a pontoon boat or paddle out in a kayak.
Snag a panoramic view of Lake Martin at the top of the 80-foot Smith Mountain Fire Tower. The tower was originally built in 1939 but restored and re-opened in 2012.
The 0.75-mile hike to Stephens Gap is totally worth it, even if you don't have the skills or gear to rappel into the cave itself. Pets are allowed on the hike, too! A permit is required to visit this Alabama gem.
Red Mountain Park in Birmingham is a unique non-profit park designed on the site of an old iron-ore mine. It has over a dozen miles of trails, including the neat Skyhy Ridge Walk to a treehouse in the canopy.
Little River Falls is a scenic and accessible waterfall in the Little River Canyon. Hike the short, paved path to the falls, then utilize the on-site picnic tables for eating lunch.
Get far above the trees on this 4.2-mile loop hike to King's Chair. The elevation gain isn't extreme, but the views will make it seem like you climbed higher than you did. Dogs on leash are allowed, too.
Chewacla State Park has worked in partnership with a local IMBA Chapter to create a network of varied and fun mountain bike trails within the park. Be sure to check out the 92-foot long Hank/Graham Bridge while you're there!
When you're in Alabama, don't forget about the beautiful Gulf Coast beaches. Orange Beach is about seven miles long and has plenty of free parking for a day on the water.
Make your way to the bottom of Noccalula Falls, which falls over 90 feet into the Black Creek Ravine. While you're there, check out the 15 trails and connectors that criss-cross the park.
You won't find too many folks on the backpacking route along the Pinhoti Trail to McDill Point. But if solitude and great views are what you're after, you'll find them here.
Cover photo by Edward Day
We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
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