Mother’s Day Urban Outing in Birmingham

Does yoga or brunch sound fun to you and the mom in your life? How about wandering around the local farmers market and showing off your culinary skills? We have listed ideas for an urban outing in the Magic City this Mother’s Day weekend.

Urban Outings in the Magic City:

Plan a Farmer’s Market theme day

On Saturday, spend the morning strolling around Pepper Place Farmers Market or Birdsong Farmers Market. While you’re there, buy ingredients for a special ‘Farmers Market dinner’ with fresh ingredients from your local farmers. She will love supporting local and spending quality time with you.

 

*Mother’s Day gift pairing: Bogg Bag Tote (any size). Mom is going to need a cool tote for those dinner ingredients and other fun finds at the market! Made from EVA foam, Bogg Bags are waterproof, easy to clean, and will hold up for all of her adventures. That being said- they are the go-to tote for busy Moms! 

 

Eat local at a Mother’s Day Brunch 

Treat Mom to brunch at one of Birmingham’s delicious eateries. Here are some of our favorites that will warm your soul, fill your tummy and deliver Insta-worthy pics. Plan ahead for this as they may have a special menu or may take reservations.

 

  • The Essential, downtown. The Brioche French Toast is jaw-dropping divine. Afterwards walk along the historic cobblestone streets of Morris Ave and visit the other local businesses.

 

  • Avondale Common House, Avondale. Outside patio seating, live Jazz, and good eats- it doesn’t get much better than this. 


*Mother’s Day gift pairing:
Women’s Gresham Maui Freshwater Pearl Bracelet. These are perfect dressed up + adorable in photos.

 

Yoga + Spa

Start the morning with a rejuvenating Vinyasa Flow at the Yoga Lab. After, head next door and surprise her with a facial from our friends at Fancy Face Facial Bar. You will leave feeling renewed, refreshed, and ready to take on the day.


*Mother’s Day gift pairing:
Women’s On Cloud 5 are a perfect shoe to slip on after a workout and to go around town. Light as clouds- they will keep her comfortable + cool wherever the day takes her. 

 

Support local artisans and businesses

Brews and art more her speed? On Saturday May 7th, Cahaba Brewery is hosting a Mother’s Day Market. There will be over 50 vendors on site including artists, makers, beer, and food. There will also be live music, and obviously- all of the pups!


*Mother’s Day gift pairing:
Birkenstock Women’s Arizona Soft Footbed Sandals are a perfect sandal for days at the brewery and market. Style + comfort is key here.

 

Relax and enjoy a sunset over The Magic City

Whichever day adventure you choose, whether it’s in the city or the great outdoors, end the day with a picnic dinner and sunset view over the city at Vulcan Park. It’s magical. 


*Mother’s Day gift pairing:
Nomadix Festival Blanket in Palms Night is the perfect blanket for a picnic + lounging at the park. With an adorable soft plush top and water-resistant base, this blanket will keep you comfortable + clean. Plus the print is a fan favorite house plant- need we say more? 

 

 

Would you rather explore the outdoors, go paddle boarding for the day, or sleep under the stars near Birmingham? Check out our ideas here.

How about the best of both worlds? These ideas will get you enjoying nature while in the city limits of Birmingham + give you time for more activities. Check out our ideas here.

 

 

Get Mom something she will love to go with your fun-filled weekend or to show her you care from far away! Click here for the Top Gifts this Mother’s Day. We want everyone to enjoy the outdoors, and we work to build loyalty one connection at a time. Visit one of our stores or take advantage of our shipping or curbside pickup! #BeOutdoors

How to pick outdoor shoes; a two part guide.

How to pick outdoor shoes.

Part Two

Trail shoes versus hiking shoes. Light hiking boots versus trail-running shoes. Outdoor shoes are confusing sometimes. Use the guide below to learn more about each style and figure out what’s best for you.

Once you’ve determined all your feet’s needs using our guide, you can start looking at what kind of shoe you’d like. We’ve broken these different styles down below with some recommendations at the end. 

6 different styles of outdoor shoes

  • Hiking sandals:
    The hiking sandal is a lightweight sandal upper with a hiking-style sole. These are best for quick adventures where you want a versatile pair of day-hike shoes that can get wet.
  • Hiking shoes:
    The trail shoes are best for day-hikes and weekend adventures. The best hiking shoes have a technical upper and midsole without the ankle support of boots. These are a good option if you have ankle pain or don’t want something too warm. If you have problems with rolling ankles or stability issues though, a full boot may be better.
  • Hiking Boots:
    The boot is an above-the-ankle style hiking shoe with full control. These are a staple of hiking for a reason. The best hiking boots give you full control and ankle support and keep you comfortable mile after mile. While some dislike the extra weight and stifling warmth, boots are your best bet for support.
  • Trail-running shoes:
    The trail-running shoe is an upgraded version of the running shoe. Trail-runners take the core of a running shoe and add a grippier outsole, sturdier midsole, and a water-resistant upper. As a result, they’re durable shoes that take on anything. The advantage to trail runners is their breathability and comfort. They can, however, wear down easier and don’t offer the exact support you need for walking.
  • Light-hikers:
    Light-hiker is a term for hiking boots/shoes made with lightweight, synthetic materials. They’re breathable, lightweight alternatives to old-school boots. If you prefer a breathable shoe with less support and comfort than traditional boots, consider a light-hiker. They are best for shorter trips and hotter environments.
  • Approach shoe:
    An approach shoe is a combination of climbing and hiking shoes. Approach shoes are designed for hiking, “scrambling”, and light climbing. Approach shoes handle day-hiking well but are specifically made for climbing.

Now that you’re familiar with these styles, check out some of our suggestions. There are plenty of shoes and boots that fit each need, but we’ve shared our favorites to help you pick. If you’re still on the fence, stop by one of our stores or reach out online via email or on the phone!

 

For injury prevention: 

The full-height boot is best to accommodate ankle and foot problems. While you sacrifice some breathability, extra support and control are essential to keep you safe. You can also look at dedicated hiking shoes if you prefer. A shoe is a better option than a boot if you struggle with ankle/calf swelling or hot spots. 

  • Our favorite:

    Keen Targhee II Mid Hiking Boots – These are mid hiking boots with a mesh and nubuck leather upper. The removable metatomical dual-density EVA footbed is perfect for flat feet.

For warmer weather: 

Try a light-hiking option or a non-waterproof trail running shoe. Oftentimes, these stripped-down shoes are the most breathable and still provide support. For day hikes on maintained paths, you don’t always need the extra weather resistance. High-quality wool hiking socks are often all you need.

  • Our favorite:

    Altra Men’s Lone Peak 6 Trail-Running Shoes – These low-top running shoes are great for wider feet with unrivaled trail support. Thanks to the aggressive tread and the breathable mesh upper, they’re a great choice for hot hikes.

For mixed-use: 

If you don’t want a dedicated pair of trail shoes and only need a supportive option for short hikes, try a more dedicated running shoe. Running shoes provide all the support of a trail shoe in a lighter package. And while they aren’t made for serious terrain, they’re still great on maintained trails. Plus, you can go from the gym straight to the trailhead!

  • Our favorite:

    Hoka Men’s Clifton 8 Running Shoes – These versatile running shoes feature a plush midsole with a breathable upper. For short trips on well-maintained trails, they’re supportive and comfortable enough.

For your first real pair of hikers: 

When you’re ready to upgrade from your starter boots, check out a mesh option. These padded yet breathable uppers are perfect for long thru-hikes. They’re versatile enough for three-season use.

  • Our favorite:

    Salomon Men’s X Ultra 3 Mid GTX Hiking Shoes – These trail-running inspired boots are perfect for hiking. The rugged Missiongrip outsole and tech lacing upper have unlimited grip. The breathable upper makes a world of difference in sweltering heat.

For versatile trail-use:

If you want trail-running performance that can still tackle day hikes, check out trail-running shoes from On, The North Face, and Salomon. These are great for maintained trails.

  • Our favorite:

    On Men’s Cloudvista Trail-Running Shoes – These trail-running shoes combine a light mesh upper with a Missiongrip outsole. Their breathable design is perfect for hot trails while the DWR coating keeps out moisture. Go as fast or as slow as you want with superior control and light, breathable design.

For a spare pair of trail shoes:

Check out some hiking sandals. They’re great as camp shoes. Since they strap onto the side of your pack, won’t hold water, and can make runs to the camp store, they’re all you need. If you’re car camping and don’t want heavy-duty boots, a pair of hiking sandals are a great alternative. And if you’re around water, having a pair of sandals with a toecap is great for exploring waterways safely.

  • Our favorite:

    Chaco Sandals – Try a pair of Chacos for versatile trail needs. From camp shoes to beach sandals, they do anything and everything comfortably.

 

So whether you’re heading out for a day-hike or hitting the trails for a while, step in confidence.

 

Wanting to get out and explore? Find what you need for your next adventure and explore the fresh. We want everyone to enjoy the outdoors, and we work to build loyalty one connection at a time. Visit one of our stores or take advantage of our shipping or curbside pickup! #BeOutdoors

What makes an outdoor shoe?

A two-part guide on how to pick outdoor shoes.

Part One

When looking for new shoes, there are a lot of factors to consider. Outdoor shoes are easy to pick with this guide. And there’s a simple process to finding the best pair of hiking shoes. So follow along and use this guide to ensure you get the right pair of hiking shoes to enjoy your time outdoors.

To figure out what shoes are best for you, start by understanding your feet’s needs. This process is simple. First, you need to figure out your shoe size. It varies based on the manufacturer and the style. Check out some size guides from our top brands like On, Hoka, and Altra. The easiest way to get your shoe size is to stop by one of our store locations. There, you can get your size taken using a Brannock Device. This measures the length and width of your foot and identifies flat feet or arch problems. You can also measure your foot size at home following these simple steps.

The next piece is understanding your foot’s needs. Feet are a complex body part and shoes can make or break your time outdoors. We’ve broken down some basic considerations below and what factors to consider with each shoe component when shopping for your next pair of shoes. 

Pronation vs supination

  • Pronation is the natural motion as your foot rolls from heel to toe while running or walking. While it is often seen as a bad thing, it’s normal for your foot to pronate a little bit. Overpronation is the real problem. Overpronation occurs when your foot overcorrects for this rolling motion and flattens your arch. This puts too much pressure on your arch, heel, and toes leading to issues with your foot and ankle. Overpronation is best solved with supportive and cushioned shoes. Some of the best options for overpronators are Hoka, Keen, and Altra.
  • Supination is the opposite of pronation. Supination occurs when your foot rolls too far outward. This causes extra pressure on your heel, toes, and ankles. It’s especially dangerous as your body distributes too much weight over the thinnest part of your foot. Supination is best treated with supportive shoes, like Overpronation. Check out support options from Keen, Salomon, and On.

 

Stability vs neutral

Shoes are often classified as either stable or neutral.

  • Stability shoes include extra support on the inside of the shoe to accommodate overpronation.
  • A neutral shoe is more balanced and features an even amount of support spread over the entire sole. Thanks to the more firm foam, neutral shoes are often better for those who want a fast and light option.

 

Always try on to find your perfect fit by following these steps:

  • First, shop for shoes when it’s warmer out and at the end of the day. That way you can account for foot-swelling and get the best size. This also lets you test how breathable the shoe is.
  • Next, when you put them on but before you lace them up, knock the heel against a surface to set your foot as far back in the shoe as possible. 
  • Then, lace them up. When lacing boots, be sure to avoid over-tightening them on hot spots. If your toes are in pain after a hike, try a looser lacing around the toebox. If you often feel numbness in your feet, try a lacing pattern that doesn’t cross over the top of your foot. 
  • Finally, walk in them a lot. Walk on inclines and loose surfaces if possible, and up and down a hill. 

 

If you aren’t able to shop for shoes in person, try getting something from a brand you’ve worn before. Shoe manufacturers use the same “last”, the wooden foot model that the shoe is constructed on. That lets you order with more confidence since you’re used to the fit.

 

When you start shopping for shoes you may find a lot of confusing information. Shoes are simple. The average pair of outdoor or trail running shoes feature these key parts:

Upper 

The upper of a shoe is key to preventing pain and maximizing comfort. With a padded mesh construction, most outdoor shoes lock onto your foot from the heel. This keeps the midsole in place while ensuring your feet can wick moisture.

Key terms:

  • One-piece liner:
    A liner is a part of the shoe that lines the inside so the shoe fits your foot as one piece.
  • Collar:
    A shoe collar is a rigid piece at the top of the heel and around the top of the laces. The collar ensures the shoe holds its shape after you tie the laces. It also makes the shoe easy to put on. Some collars are a flexible knit material, while others are rigid foam blends.
  • Toe box:
    The toe box is the upper section where your toes sit. Often, the toe box is the first part of your shoe to wear out due to constant friction from your pinky and big toes. Shoes with a wider toe box, such as Altra’s, will help if you have this issue.
  • Upper:
    An upper features a combination of polyester mesh and other materials to create a padded, breathable structure. Mesh is preferable for day hiking and running thanks to its breathability and comparable support. 
  • Heel cup:
    The heel cup is the back part of the midsole. It’s a critical part of the shoe. The heel cup keeps your shoe from slipping down at the back and maintains the structure of the shoe as you walk. Heel cups use a firm plastic that curves around the back of your foot to provide rigidity. The most important factor with heel cups is to ensure your shoes fit and feel good on long hikes.

Waterproofing

Waterproof hiking boots come in three main options. These include waterproof membranes, a chemical treatment, or a water-resistant shell. These range from how water-resistant they are and how breathable they are. The more breathable a waterproof treatment is, the less waterproof it usually is. We’ve summarized these options below. Check out the descriptions below to ensure you pick the best waterproofing option for you!

  • DWR:
    Durable water-resistant chemical treatment is the standard waterproofing option. DWR is a moisture-wicking chemical layer that coats porous fibers. This prevents them from absorbing water but is small enough to not block airflow. Oftentimes a DWR isn’t considered a “fully waterproof” option since you can’t submerge the boots. The DWR option is great for day hiking shoes that might only handle a bit of ambient moisture from mud and rain.
  • Waterproof membrane:
    A membrane is overlapping layers of mesh and polyester. The top layer is often a waterproof layer with tiny holes, smaller than a water molecule, that let the shoe breathe. The inner layers provide a cushion and space for moisture to flow off your skin. The membrane is best for thru-hiking and camping on the trail, as the waterproofing keeps your feet dry. This option isn’t as breathable, so get moisture-wicking hiking socks like Smartwool or Swiftwick. Most use either Gore-Tex or their own
  • Water-proof shell:
    A shell is the most water-proof option. A shell is a fully waterproof outer without a “membrane”. Shell options are made for technical needs like mountaineering or similar terrains. A shell option is best for navigating snow. There are some hybrid shell options, like Sorel Duck Boot. These have a breathable leather upper with a full rubber toe cap and outer. 

 

Midsole

The midsole of your shoe creates stability and support. Modern shoes utilize a blend of plush EVA foam with a sturdy TPU foam inside for support and structure. 

Key terms:

  • EVA Midsole
    EVA is a type of foam found in shoes. These midsoles are popular thanks to their responsive and comfortable foot feel. It’s also very durable and maintains its support for a long time. It’s rare to find outdoors shoes made without EVA foam, but pay attention to a “TPU” foam as well. TPU is a denser foam that provides more support for more technical options. TPU is often found in approach shoes, mountaineering boots, and trail runners.
  • Stack Height
    The stack height is the height of the actual sole, from the bottom to the insole where your foot sits in the shoe. This measurement lets you know how bulky the outsole is.
  • Shank:
    A shank is a rigid piece of plastic that runs the length of the outsole. It provides structure and keeps the shoe rigid through the stepping motion. Then, the shank flexes and provides the “bounce” as you roll your foot forward.

 

Outsole

The outsole provides the necessary grip and structure to move you forward. Some shoes use a proprietary outsole called Missiongrip™. Missiongrip™ features a special diamond shape and rubber compound. When looking for trail shoes, the sole only makes a difference if you’re running versus hiking. Trail-running shoes need an aggressive tread, with deep, grippy channels and lugs. Hiking shoes need a wider, stable forefoot with grippy heels.

Key terms:

  • Drop:
    A shoe’s drop is the distance from the highest part of the outsole down to the lowest part. It measures how much curve there is in the shoe’s sole. This helps you figure out if the shoe is a good fit for your foot. While the average shoe has a 6mm drop, like Hoka or On, some have an 8-10mm drop like The North Face. Other brands like Altra are famous for having a 0mm drop and can be a good option for flat-footed hikers.
  • Missiongrip™/rubberized outsole:
    Some shoes use a proprietary rubber blend for their outsoles. The Missiongrip™ outsole technology from On Running specifically use a diamond-shaped tread with a super-sticky rubber for long-lasting performance. Other outsoles use specially formulated rubber to maintain grip.

 

Now that you’re familiar with the components of outdoors shoes, you can shop with confidence. Check out part two of our outdoor footwear guide, launching Thursday April 21, 2022, for an explanation of different outdoor shoe styles and which one is best for you!

 

Wanting to get out and explore? Find what you need for your next adventure and explore the fresh. We want everyone to enjoy the outdoors, and we work to build loyalty one connection at a time. Visit one of our stores or take advantage of our shipping or curbside pickup! #BeOutdoors

7 Underrated Ways to Leave No Trace in the Outdoors

Everyone knows about packing out your trash, or what to do when nature calls in the wilderness. These are number one and number two (literally) in the leave-no-trace playbook for those of us who care about preserving outdoor spaces for future generations to enjoy.

Well, okay, apparently not everyone knows. We see trash (and pick it up) all the time, just like you do. We’re as baffled as you are when we see some yahoo flick a cigarette butt out the window of their car. Do some people simply not care? Further education is clearly needed.

For those of us in the know, though, minimizing our own impact goes beyond these two obvious line items. If you’re already doing the easy stuff, here are a few often-overlooked ways to tread lightly in the great outdoors.

1. Travel on durable surfaces.

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Hiking the Ice Lakes Trail in Colorado’s San Juan National Forest. Paxson Woelber

This one should be easy: walk on the trail. Don’t cut switchbacks, which creates both erosion problems and ugly “social” trails. If you have to go off-trail, tread carefully; avoid fragile alpine flora or cryptobiotic desert soil. Of course, we all see evidence that many outdoor users aren’t doing this. We see all those social trails near lakes and campsites, and trampled vegetation near crags and scenic overlooks.

For all trail traffic, including mountain bikers: think about durable surfaces, and whether your boots or bike tires are leaving a discernible mark on the terrain. If you’re leaving ruts because of wet or freeze-thaw conditions, ride somewhere else; no matter how many slow-motion edits online seem to imply otherwise, it’s not okay to skid your tires and sling “brown pow” or pioneer off-trail alternate lines.

This goes for photographers, too, despite the temptation to stomp off-trail to that perfect vantage point. Sure, the adage may say: “Take nothing but photographs, leave nothing but footprints.” The photos are fine… but why leave footprints where you don’t have to?

2. Park your car on durable surfaces, too.

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Parking at a snowy campground in Glacier National Park. D.Taylor in Idaho

What do you do when you arrive at a trailhead, and the parking lot is full? Do you just pull off the road wherever it’s convenient? In some environments this may be acceptable, but in many it’s not. If simply walking on cryptobiotic soil or alpine meadows has a negative impact on those surfaces, imagine what parking your 4Runner on them does. Additionally, if that parking lot is in a neighborhood, imagine how thrilled the neighbors will be if you’re parking on their lawn.

I’ve seen more than a few parking lots in National Parks absolutely overrun with cars parked all over sensitive terrain and their inhabitants absolutely trampling that terrain on the way in and out of those cars. We don’t think the answer is more parking and bigger parking lots, especially when the mission of the National Park Service is to protect and preserve these beautiful places; we think preservation includes an awareness of where you pilot your vehicle in the first place.

3. Respect permit limits, closures, and quotas.

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View of Yosemite Falls from Glacier Point, Yosemite National Park. Mitchel

Speaking of full parking lots, some areas have chosen to counteract overuse by instituting lotteries, permit systems, and daily quotas. Sometimes that parking lot is full because, frankly, that’s how many visitors per day are a sustainable number without degrading the resource. Sometimes, areas are temporarily (or permanently) closed so they have a chance to recover. Some places, as we’ve noted in the past, are being loved to death.

We know it sucks when you arrive at the start of your day’s objective and it’s closed, or when you don’t win the lottery for that bucket-list trip, but the outdoors isn’t yours alone. We’re in this together, and we need to work together to protect the wild places we love. There are plenty of incredible places out there; be flexible with your plan, have a backup, and don’t fall into the trap of thinking that the only places worth visiting are on “10 best” lists and inside National Parks.

4. Avoid creating new campsites.

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Campsite on rocky cliff. ih

Well, aren’t we a buzzkill! While social media can seem like a competition to see who can pitch their tent in the most ridiculous place (we love @youdidnotsleepthere), existing campsites are usually there for a reason. Limiting the number of sites at a given location helps limit human impact to those designated places. If there are two camp spots at your favorite backcountry overlook, and you create a third, you’ve increased the visible impact by fifty percent!

You might be disappointed that the designated sites at that pristine alpine lake are two hundred feet from the water instead of two feet, but there’s a reason for it. You don’t have the right to overrule the land manager by making a new one! It’s easy to convince yourself “if I just put my tent here for this one night, I’m not really creating a campsite,” but you’ll leave signs of your visit; the visitor after you is likely to repeat your indiscretion, and the visitor after that, and what’s done cannot be undone.

5. Don’t build fire rings, and consider skipping the campfire entirely.

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Utah camping without a fire. Zach Dischner

Look, we know that your Instagram shots are soooo much cooler with the glow of a campfire, and we all know a boutique, hand-painted hatchet is the ultimate accessory for the modern lumbersexual. We’ve also seen campsites surrounded by stumps where small trees used to be, the surviving tree stripped of every branch within arm’s reach.

It should go without saying that you should definitely skip the campfire if your region is experiencing a drought, you should respect any and all burn bans in place and, if you absolutely must have a fire, you must also make certain it’s completely out before moving camp. It almost sounds silly to type out, but every year major wildfires are started by careless campfire management. Roasting marshmallows over a canister stove may not be as sexy, but it’s also less likely to incinerate your favorite wilderness.

We recently published an article about campfire safety, but there are also some excellent articles about whether campfires are necessary at all (we recommendthis one). Think about it. Do you really need to have one?

6. Wash your gear, wash your kayak, and don’t transport firewood.

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Packraft on the Anaktuvuk River, Alaska. Paxson Woelber

It’s important to understand that our impact on outdoor environments goes beyond what we can see, and beyond what is immediately apparent. A variety of pests and invasives—the hemlock woolly adelgid, the emerald ash borer, zebra mussels, water hyacinth—can be transported from watershed to watershed, and from forest to forest, sometimes with heartbreaking results.

We’re slowly watching our Eastern Hemlock trees die off, one by one, as the Adelgid spreads throughout the Appalachians. These ghost trees are solemn reminders that, sometimes, we leave behind more than footprints if we’re not careful.

You’ve probably seen signs at campsite kiosks and ranger stations instructing visitors to avoid transporting firewood and so forth. Not only should we be following these rules, we should make sure our fellow outdoor enthusiasts are aware of them, too.

7. No dams… and, seriously, stop stacking rocks!

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Rock piles creekside along Middle Fork Trail, Washington. +Russ

Rock-stacking has become a major trend, and it absolutely has to stop. Cairns to mark a trail are fine, and are sometimes necessary, but we’re not talking about cairns. We’re talking about the bizarre proliferation of stacked rocks in certain parts of the world. No, you’re not enhancing the beauty of the natural environment. No, the wilderness doesn’t need improvement, especially if you consider ubiquitous signs of human meddling to be an improvement. It’s more of an eyesore.

As for dams, we see lots of river rocks being moved to create swimming holes, capture hot springs, and the like. This has a real impact on certain types of aquatic creatures, specifically the extremely interesting (and highly endangered) hellbender. Seriously, just leave the rocks where they are, and enjoy nature as it is. Scree slopes and rocky creek beds are not your personal Lego set.

Last Word

We’re not going to tell you exactly how to enjoy the outdoors; maybe you like to listen to Swedish death metal on your trail run; maybe you like to yell “wooo” at the end of a long downhill on your mountain bike, and more power to you on both counts.

Outside activity does, however, require an awareness of the world around you, and of the impact your visit has on it. We think that awareness should go beyond just burying toilet paper and carrying out your Snickers wrappers, and we hope you agree.

*We highly recommend some level of Leave No Trace training, not only for those new to the outdoors but for experienced outdoor enthusiasts. Learn more about Leave No Trace here. *

 

 

Wanting to get out and explore? Find what you need for your next adventure and explore the fresh. We want everyone to enjoy the outdoors, and we work to build loyalty one connection at a time. Visit one of our stores or take advantage of our shipping or curbside pickup! #BeOutdoors

 

Written by Jeff Bartlett for RootsRated in partnership with BCBS of Tennessee and legally licensed through the Matcha publisher network. Please direct all licensing questions to legal@getmatcha.com.

Featured image provided by Jeff Bartlett

The 5 Best Places to Go Stargazing in Alabama

How many times as a kid did you head out into your backyard, lie back on the thick grass, and gaze endlessly at the countless stars in the night sky? Or, maybe it was a camping trip where you first discovered the magnificence of our universe.

Sadly, finding “dark sky,” or areas where there is very little to no artificial lighting, is becoming more difficult these days. From the Mississippi River to the Atlantic Ocean, light pollution diminishes our view of the heavens.

Lucky for us, there are still places where you can get lost in the stars. We thought it would be a good time to share with you some of our favorite locations in Alabama to watch the nighttime sky. Remember, this is only a sampling, and you can visit the Dark Site Finder website to find a stargazing location near you.

Conecuh National Forest

Many Alabama areas offer broad views of the night sky and little light pollution. Andrew Jenkins
Many Alabama areas offer broad views of the night sky and little light pollution.
Andrew Jenkins

The Conecuh National Forest near Andalusia is becoming known as a prime stargazing location. Within the national forest, the the Open Pond Recreation Area and Nellie Pond are two top spots to get lost in the stars. Open Pond does have some lighting for campgrounds, but overall it’s a nice place to view stars and meteor showers. Plus, it has restrooms.

For a darker sky, take a little hike to beautiful Nellie Pond. To reach the pond, park at the north trailhead on Alabama 137 in Andalusia and hike 1.6-miles. Along the bank of the pond, you’ll find ample room to set up a scope or simply sit and gaze. By the way, this is also a great place to camp, but keep in mind that hunting is allowed here in the fall and winter. For hunting season dates, visit Outdoor Alabama.

Moundville Archeological Park

Moundville Archeological Park near Tuscaloosa is best known for the 28 dirt mounds that were built by Native Americans of the Mississippian Period between the years 1100 and 1541. The park itself is a huge, flat field ringed by the mounds. Because the land is largely free of trees and artificial light, it’s a fantastic spot to view the vastness of space and all of its magic.

The park closes daily at dusk, so you’ll have to camp there to view the heavens at night. For information on camping fees and reservations, visit the Moundville website.

If you don’t want to camp, the University of Alabama Department of Physics and Astronomy hosts a public viewing night at the park about once a month.

Von Braun Observatory in Monte Sano State Park

Huntsville’s Von Braun Astronomical Society opens its doors to the public every month. Joe Cuhaj
Huntsville’s Von Braun Astronomical Society opens its doors to the public every month.
Joe Cuhaj

Located atop Monte Sano Mountain, the Von Braun Astronomical Observatory was built by the famous rocket scientist Werner von Braun, who led U.S. efforts to put a man on the moon and helped Huntsville earn its nickname, the The Rocket City.

The facility was opened in 1956 and has been operated by the Von Braun Astronomical Society ever since. On Saturday nights, the observatory is open to members of the public who can pay a small $2 admission fee to see presentations by astronomers and astronauts in the planetarium. If the weather is favorable, visitors can then use presenters’ telescopes to gaze into space.

Oak Mountain State Park

While Birmingham includes large swaths of urban landscape, the “Magic City” still offers the opportunity to catch a little stardust. Each month on a Saturday near the time of the full moon, the Birmingham Astronomical Society (BAS) hosts a Star Party at Oak Mountain State Park. For each gathering, members of BAS set up their scopes at Double Oak Lake and invite the public to come out and take a gander at the moon, planets, and stars.

Cheaha Mountain

Some Alabama destinations offer excellent views of the Milky Way. Nathan Anderson
Some Alabama destinations offer excellent views of the Milky Way.
Nathan Anderson

As the state’s highest mountain, Cheaha is one of the best places to get in a night of “dancing with the stars.” If you camp at Cheaha State Park, head to the Group Camping Area on the north side of the park. Along the park’s main road, you can stargaze in a wide-open field where there’s little light to obscure your view. Plus, there are a few trees where you can suspend your hammock and relax under starlight.

To explore another great spot for stargazing, take Alabama 281 west of Cheaha State Park to a point 1 mile north of Adams Gap. On the west side of the road, you can park in a wide pull-off area that will accommodate about 10 vehicles. Because this remote area has virtually no light pollution, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of the thick blanket of stars better known as the Milky Way. Many people say that, from this vantage point, they feel like they can reach out and grab a handful of the stars. If you travel in a pickup truck, throw an air mattress in the bed so you can lie back and own the night sky.

If you travel 5.5 miles east of the state park on Alabama 281, you’ll reach the Cheaha Scenic Overlook, which offers an expansive view of the surrounding Talladega Mountains. After sunset, nature begins its light show with bright planets and shooting stars.

 

Written by Joe Cuhaj for RootsRated in partnership with Blue Cross Blue Shield of AL and legally licensed through the Matcha publisher network. Please direct all licensing questions to legal@getmatcha.com.

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