Having a blast at Moss Rock Preserve, Alabama.

Ask any outdoors-loving dog-owner: Hikes are much more fun when Fido comes along. Whether they love sniffing under every rock and root along the trail or running free in the local dog park, there’s no better way to strengthen the bond between dog and owner than exploring the outdoors.

To that end, here are eight amazing dog-friendly trails in Alabama—including easy outings, scenic excursions, and dedicated dog parks—where young pups and grown dogs alike can get a taste of the outdoors.

Unless otherwise noted, keep your canine companion leashed up within the following parks and forests. Some parks offer off-leash areas or other dog-friendly accommodations, but the rest welcome dogs—as long as they’re on leashes.

Moss Rock Preserve

With 12 miles of trails forming a loop throughout the 349-acre Moss Rock Preserve, you and your four-legged friend are sure to find more than a little scenic beauty along the way.

Red Trail is one of the most popular hikes in the park, thanks to its distance (less than a mile), lack of elevation gain, and scenic views (including a picture-perfect crossing over Hurricane Creek, which flows through the park).

Elsewhere, Moss Rock Preserve hosts an unusual sandstone glade, where a variety of plants (including trees, grasses, and flowers) grow in between rocks—looking less like a natural forest than a martian landscape—and subsist on the meager rainfall they get each year. Some of the pine trees here are more than 200 years old.

Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve

With more than 1,000 acres to explore and 14 miles of interconnected trails to enjoy, Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve is something of a “choose-your-own-adventure” outing not far from downtown Birmingham. Interested in history? Native flora and fauna? Instagram-worthy city views? Ruffner Mountain has it all.

Along the way, you’ll catch glimpses of Ruffner Mountain’s mining past; the area was the site of mining operations between the late 1800s and the 1950s, and numerous trails traverse old mining sites. The 1.2-mile Quarry Trial, for instance, visits a limestone quarry where fossils remain embedded in the rock. Elsewhere, check out the Overlook Trail for unparalleled views of downtown Birmingham.

Adding to the Fido-friendly vibe: No bikes or cars are allowed on Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve’s trails, improving safety and giving dog owners peace of mind.

Mobile Botanical Gardens

The Mobile Botanical Gardens offers not just displays of well-manicured plants and flowers, but an up-close look at the Gulf Coast environment—all without ever leaving the city.

At more than 100 acres, Mobile Botanical Gardens is home to numerous trails that wind through the Rhododendron Garden, Japanese Maple Garden, Herb Garden, Fern Garden, and more.

(Note: The gardens are undergoing a $150,000 renovation throughout summer 2016. Parking might be limited, and some trails may be closed as workers create new walkways, upgrade the parking area, and more.)

Vulcan Trail

Following the ridge of Red Mountain, the two-mile Vulcan Trail out-and-back delivers natural beauty, impressive views, and a glimpse at the region’s history.

Trees line the Vulcan Trail’s wide path and part on occasion to reveal breathtaking glimpses of downtown Birmingham and other nearby mountain ridges.

The Vulcan Trail also follows the path of an old railroad corridor; Red Mountain was the site of iron ore mining operations between the late 1800s and early 1900s, and relics and ruins from the mountain’s hardworking history can be found along the trail today.

Talladega National Forest

Talladega National Forest was established in the 1930s as part of the United States’ New Deal. In doing so, the land was rescued from heavy logging; some 80 years later, the forest bears little resemblance to what had been acquired decades ago. Today, hikers can traverse trails throughout the forest’s roughly 400,000 acres and check out several gorgeous waterfalls.

Cheaha Mountain, the tallest point in the state at just over 2,400 feet, hosts a creek that eventually becomes the 30-foot Cheaha Falls (accessible via the six-mile Chinnabee Silent Trail). The hike to Cheaha Falls is easy enough, with mostly flat terrain, but keep your dog on a leash near the falls, where slippery rocks and a steep drop-off are dangerous. Elsewhere, High Falls can reach 300 feet wide at peak water flow; the hike to the falls is fairly steep, but stairs are available to help out tired hikers and tuckered pooches.

Little River Canyon National Preserve

Named for the river that flows along the top of Lookout Mountain, Little River Canyon National Preserve delivers a torrent of natural diversity. The park, nestled in the Southern Appalachians, hosts immense forests, cascading waterfalls, one of the deepest canyons in the region, impressive boulders, sandstone cliffs, and more.

Hiking options are numerous, and given the short lengths of some of the park’s trails, hikers can pick and choose their favorites for a fun day of exploration with their pup.

The Canyon Mouth Picnic Area promises an easy, flat one-mile hike, with views of the Little River Canyon. The 1.24-mile Beaver Pond Trail, meanwhile, leads to a pond dammed by beavers. The mostly-level hike is popular with birdwatchers, as well. Hikers can also take a boardwalk to the base of Little River Falls, with an offshoot trail that leads to nearby Martha’s Falls.

Note: The park’s Eberhart Point Trail is not recommended for pets, owing to the rugged nature of the hike and steep boulders that hikers must navigate along the way.

Gulf State Park

Dogs can’t enjoy the three miles of white sand beaches at Gulf State Park, but the park nevertheless deserves plenty of plaudits for its attention to man’s best friend.

Leashed dogs are allowed on the more than 15 miles of trails that comprise the park’s Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail system. The park’s trails lead through six different ecosystems, including a maritime forest, sand dunes, wetlands, and lakes. (Dogs may also hang out in the park’s campground and picnic area, provided they remain leashed.)

Itching to let Fido roam free? Unleashed dogs can run around and take a dip in the Dog Pond at Lake Shelby. (Note that Lake Shelby hosts a variety of wildlife, which includes alligators. Keep a sharp eye out while playing fetch around the water.)

The park also rents several cabins and cottages, some of which are dog-friendly.

Red Mountain Park

At 1,500 acres and just minutes from downtown Birmingham, Red Mountain Park is one of the nation’s largest urban parks.

Developed on the site of an iron ore mining site and offering 14 miles of hiking trails along the Red Mountain ridge, the park promises something for everyone—including hikers with their pups. Six of the park’s 1,500 acres have been set aside specifically for four-legged friends. Remy’s Dog Park offers separate off-leash areas for small and large dogs, as well as a wide open field so Fido can burn a few calories, too.

Other hiking opportunities range from a flat, two-mile out-and-back trail to a 6.5-mile, round-the-mountain trail that heads to Grace’s Gap Overlook. On the way to Grace’s Gap, hikers can check out old mining ruins that remain on the mountain.

Ready to be outdoors this Summer to celebrate National Camping Month? We have the camping + outdoor gear you need to get you on the trails! Not quite ready to commit to all of the gear? We get it! Click here to learn more about our Rental Program for your next trip! 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

A view from inside the massive Kinlock Shelter in the Bankhead National Forest.

 

In Alabama, history is all around you—especially in the wilderness. That trail you are walking may have been an old Indian path hundreds of years ago. Hidden just off the trail may be a cemetery dating back to the 1700s. That small, unassuming stone retaining wall nearby? It may have been built by hand by the Civilian Conservation Corps decades ago.

Here are five fun hikes in Alabama that each have a little hidden history along the way. The next time you hike one, perhaps bring along a friend, so you can wow them with your knowledge.

1. Cave Mountain

 

On the southern banks of Lake Guntersville near the dam that forms the lake is a small 34-acre piece of property protected by the Tennessee Valley Authority: the Cave Mountain Small Wild Area.

Cave Mountain has a fun little 1.4-mile lollipop loop hike that is filled with natural beauty: rocky climbs, tall bluffs, views of the lake, and a turtle filled tupelo swamp. It also has a backstory, in the form of the mountain’s namesake cave.

The trail is rocky and moderate in difficulty as it loops around then over the mountain just below 764-foot summit. At one point, the trail is wedged between a weeping rock bluff and a tupelo swamp teeming with birds and box turtles sunning themselves on logs. Before long, it winds up at the cave of Cave Mountain.

It is a quintessential cave opening — a neat, round hole in the rock wall that centuries ago was a small water channel. Widened by rain over the years, the cave at one time housed a huge population of bats, which disappeared in the mid-1850s. Their guano became a key ingredient of salt peter, which, when processed, was used during the Civil War to make black powder (the original gunpowder). During the war the Long Hollow Nitre Works Company began mining the guano driving the bats out. The workers would dig and carry out up to 1,000 pounds of the material a day by hand.

Hikers can peek into the cave, but unless you’re an experienced spelunker you shouldn’t venture in. The entrance tunnel goes back about 250 feet before the landscape turns pitch black, and then there is a dangerous vertical drop.

2. Kinlock Shelter

The trail leading to the Kinlock Shelter in the Bankhead National Forest is only one mile total out-and-back. But the steep climb down into a valley is well worth it for what’s at the bottom: the shelter itself.

Kinlock is part of the Kinlock Historic District, an area in which a plantation was established here near a spring in the 1800s. The shelter itself is a massive rock wall and cave that was used by Native Americans for centuries as a place of spiritual worship and ceremony. The cave itself is fascinating—but the walls really steal the show. Petroglyphs carved thousands of years ago adorn the sandstone surfaces. One depicts a turkey foot, a common bird found in the forest. You’ll also see a series of scratch marks where weapons and tools were sharpened.

Just a friendly reminder that Kinlock Shelter is a protected historic site. Due to its ceremonial significance, it should be treated with reverence.

3. Indian Tomb Hollow

 

Another fascinating historic site in the Bankhead National Forest is Indian Tomb Hollow. You’ll have to really work to get there, though: The 4-mile out-and-back trail is not blazed and requires intrepid hikers to cross several streams and scamper up a bluff line. For first-time visitors, the recommended way to get there is to join one of the many guided hikes scheduled through Wild South.

Along the way, you’ll see amazing geology and two significant historic features. The first are “marker trees”. Native Americans took young trees and bent them in such a way that when they grew they would point in a specific direction to indicate how to get to food, water, or a safe way out of the hollow.

The other highlight is Gillespie Cemetery. There are only three marked graves here, the oldest that of James Gillespie, a War of 1812 vet who was born in 1770 and died in 1849.

4. Ruffner Mountain Mines

 

Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve in Birmingham is well known among outdoor enthusiasts. But it’s surprising how many people never get off the preserve’s wide, main trail and explore the hidden treasures reflecting the area’s rich mining history. Travel about a half mile down the preserve’s backbone trail, the Quarry Trail, and turn off onto paths less travelled, the Crusher and Mine Ruins trails, for a trip back in time.

Depending on the route, the hike can be from 2.1 to 3 miles long and is moderately difficult. On these lesser traveled trails, you will find an abandoned mine that was opened by the Sloss Furnace Company in the late 1800s, stone foundations and retaining walls from the same period, and the real highlight of the trail: a huge steel iron ore crusher from around 1880. Workers would push carts carrying iron ore out of the mine on a tram to this crusher, which appears out of the forest like an ancient Mayan temple. Records show that in one year the workers here made 60 cents per car load.

5. Monte Sano Nature Preserve

 

The Land Trust of North Alabama has done an amazing job at protecting green spaces throughout the Huntsville area, and one of the best and the one with the most hidden historic treasures is the Monte Sano Nature Preserve.

More than 18 miles of trail with varying degrees of difficulty will take you to several historic sites that most people overlook when hiking the preserve. An easy walker is the 1.5-mile Old Railroad Bed Trail. Back in the 1800s, trains would chug along this route from the Huntsville Train Depot to the Monte Sano Hotel. You can still see remnants of trestle supports along the route.

There is also the 0.75-mile Waterline Trail, where the main waterline for the city ran from the 1950s; part of the waterline are still visible along the route. Other highlights include the Spring House, where settlers in the region built this stone building over a spring to store their perishable food items in sort of an early refrigerator, and the impressive Three Caves, a quarry that was mined for limestone from 1945 to 1955.

Find your favorite Fall gear at Alabama Outdoors. 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 free shipping on orders over $69.99 or free in-store pickup! #BeOutdoors

Featured image provided by dmtilley

Being in nature reduces stress, increases pleasant feelings and well- it’s just good for the soul. So if you’d like to spend some time in the great outdoors around Florence for Mother’s Day weekend, here are some ideas!

Exploring the outdoors near Florence:

Nearby day adventures

• Wichahpi Commemorative Stone Wall in Florence is a must visit and an even better activity for a nearby Mother’s Day adventure. Why? Well, a local man named Tom Hendrix spent over 30 years building a stone wall in memory of his great grandmother and her journey on the Singing River. We recommend reading further before you visit as the story is powerful and will make the visit that much better. Visitors have expressed the wall is healing and peaceful.

• The TVA (Tennessee Valley Authority) Rockpile Trail is a 2.67 mile out and back trail in Muscle Shoals that runs along the Tennessee River. This is very accessible but rated as moderate so be prepared with the right shoes! If Mom loves hiking she will love this, plus the waterfalls make this hike even better!

*Mother’s Day gift pairing: Aftco Women’s Ladyfish Shorts will take her from the trails to the water, and out for a local bite afterwards. Made from durable Nylon with UPF 50 sun protection and quick-drying DWR, these shorts are made for it all. 

Overnight + weekend excursions 

• Dismals Canyon is a hidden Alabama gem and popular bucket list item for Alabamians and other travelers. Located in Phil Campbell, AL this National Natural Landmark is a sandstone gorge filled with diverse plant life and wonder. There is a 1.5 mile hiking trail, Rainbow Falls, and the best of all- Dismalites. Dismalites are larvae that glow fluorescent blue at night to attract food, and the canyon offers night hikes to see them glow. Dismals Canyon also has stunning campsites and cozy cabins if your Mom prefers glamping. On site there is also a soda fountain, and a spa to treat Mom to during your stay.

• McFarland Park is an easy staycation + getaway as it is located right in Florence on the shores of the Tennessee River. McFarland park has 60 campsites, fishing piers, jogging trails, and more! This river-front home for the weekend will be fun for the whole family without going too far. So set up your camping site and enjoy a sunset on the river while lounging by the fire.

*Mother’s Day gift pairing: Birkenstock Women’s EVA Arizona Sandals are made for adventures and will be her go-to all season long. Made from a high-quality, odor-neutral EVA foam, these sandals are easy to clean, lightweight enough to float, and the perfect slip-on for the river or the campsite. 

Interested in a weekend of urban outings in The Shoals this Mother’s Day? We have what to do + where to eat in Florence. Check out our ideas here.

How about the best of both worlds? These ideas will get you enjoying nature while in the city of Florence + 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

Mother’s Day weekend is upon us and you want to plan a fun adventure. Are you interested in getting outdoors without getting too far off the beaten trail? Below we have highlighted some of Florence’s scenic strolls, local parks, and where to enjoy a local bite to eat after!

Florence outings that offer the best of the city + nature:

Stroll through a rustic paradise at one of Florence’s local parks

• Deibert Park in Florence, AL is a tranquil park with walking trails and a picturesque pond. So pack a blanket, stay awhile, enjoy the view and company. Either plan a picnic or afterwards take her to lunch at Sweet Basil Alabama for a tasty local bite.

*Mother’s Day gift pairing: The Hoka One One Women’s Clifton 7 is not your typical running shoe. These shoes feel like marshmallows, will give her support all day long and are as stylish +vibrant as her. She will adore you and them.

Plan a picnic at the park 

• Deibert Park listed above is also a fantastic park for a picnic! With plenty of green space to get comfortable and wonderful views of the pond, we can’t think of a more serene place to have a picnic.
  
  
• Wilson Park in downtown Florence is known to the locals as the site for “Music in the Park” and other events. This Mother’s Day, change it up and pack a picnic, sit at the park, and enjoy the flowing fountain!

*Mother’s Day gift pairing: The Yeti Roadie 24 is a perfect gift for Mom. Give her the cooler as a gift, once she opens it- tell her you have the day planned, pack the cooler with her favorite bites and have a picnic at the park! 

 Get some light exercise in at a popular Florence urban trail + park

• Wildwood Park is located just minutes from downtown Florence. While known for its mountain bike trails, the park also has good walking/hiking trails for all to enjoy its beauty. The park also runs alongside Cypress Creek which is perfect for canoeing and kayaking if that is more of Mom’s speed.

*Mother’s Day gift pairing: She will love Free Fly Women’s Breeze Shorts anywhere she goes this summer. With ultra-soft bamboo lining, these lightweight and moisture-wicking shorts are perfect for all-day adventures. They are also super flattering and cute!

Interested in a weekend of urban outings in The Shoals this Mother’s Day? We have what to do + where to eat in Florence. Check out our ideas here.

Would you rather explore the outdoors, learn about Dismals, or sleep under the stars near Florence? 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.

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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. *

Featured image provided by Jeff Bartlett

We know what you’re thinking- the weather has warmed up and it’s time to get outside, until you do and you are immediately reminded of the humidity and Alabama summer climate. Most can’t imagine going camping as temps and humidity rise but if you do, the Sipsey Wilderness and William B. Bankhead National Forest is a great place as most adventures will include water as the destination. 

Known as the ‘Land of 1,000 waterfalls’ the Sipsey Wilderness will make you feel like you stepped out of Alabama and into the tropics with only an hour and a half drive from Birmingham. 

Even if you have been to the Sipsey Wilderness a good bit, chances are you have not seen it all. With over 25,000 acres of National Forest in the Wilderness and waterfalls, there is plenty to explore. So grab your gear and let’s go!

Find your plot of land & put a stake in it

Image provided by: @the_frugal_doodle on Instagram

Since the Sipsey is a Wilderness area, wilderness camping is permitted and offers primitive and established campsites for many experience levels. Even though some campsites you come across on the trails may have water and firewood accessible, you will not find fully developed campsites as you would when you go car camping at a recreation center or State Park. 

When staying in and exploring the Sipsey Wilderness just make sure to follow all Leave No Trace principles. So while you hike around, find a cozy spot where you can set up your campsite for the weekend or even just the night and explore somewhere new the next night!

If this level of primitive or backcountry camping is not quite your speed, there are multiple developed camping areas within Bankhead National Forest that are great for families or if you love camping while having a few accommodations like a shower, water pump, and maybe even electricity hookups. A few nearby options are:

• Clear Creek Campground One of the most popular recreation areas and located on Lewis Smith Lake giving you access to swimming and boating.

• Brushy Lake Campground First some, first serve with 13 campsites makes this one a serene getaway and less crowds.

• Corinth Campground Individual + group sites located on the shores of Lewis Smith Lake.
  

What to cook

Night one it is best to be prepared with an easy meal. If you decide to rough it in the wilderness, freeze dried meals are a no-fuss, no-mess solution and it fits right in with your outdoor adventure. If you were able to bring a cooler or are car camping and are looking to show off your Gordon Ramsey skills, here are some easy and delicious meals you can make. Just remember if you are backpacking, it is best to keep it light and always wherever you go- pack it out.

We recommend the MSR PocketRocket 2 Stove for primitive and car campers alike as it is compact and boils 1 liter of water in just over three minutes. Make sure to get fuel, and any accessories you need like cooking pots, a coffee press, and utensils. Read on for another fresh meal idea as you take on the weekend on the Sipsey Fork.

Hiking

This is possibly a given if you are planning an outdoor adventure, but hiking is a great activity for any skill level and for the whole family to enjoy! With 25,000 acres and 45 miles of trails in the Sipsey Wilderness, there is a trail for any level of hiker! Hiking is even better in the Sipsey Wilderness as there is so much to explore. From waterfalls, caves, and breathtaking views, you will not get bored.

One spot we love to explore and is a must-add to your itinerary is “Big Tree” which is the largest tree in Alabama reaching 150’ in the sky. The hike is an 8.5 mile out and back trail; however, we suggest starting at the Thompson Trailhead even though it is a little longer, the terrain is easier and prettier! 

Fishing in the Sipsey

Image by: @jasondwalls on Instagram

Interested in fishing? You have come to the right spot. The Sipsey Fork is the fly fishing destination for Alabamians looking to cast out their line and reel in some trout. As the Sipsey is stocked with trout several times a year, it is a put-and-take location which means you can take your catch back to your campsite for dinner.

So head out on some trails for a nice day hike and look for a good spot to throw your line in. Make sure to bring a good cooler with ice to store your fish so it stays fresh for your dinner. Just remember to keep in mind how far you are hiking and how heavy your cooler can get with extra contents.

Before your weekend adventure or on your way to the river, make a stop at the Riverside Fly Shop in Bremen, AL to chat with the guides and buy flys. They are so helpful and will be able to tell you what flys to get, their go-to spots, and you can even sign up for a guided trip.

Click here for more information on Trout fishing on the Sipsey Fork. This includes important information about the Smith Dam and the generation levels as water levels can rise 10-15 ft in minutes. So be prepared and have fun on the river!

Chasing waterfalls + swimming holes

Waterfall and swimming hole hikes aren’t just for the Moms or kids, they are for everyone exploring Alabama in the summer heat and need a cool dip in the water. Plus, who doesn’t love a good waterfall? As we mentioned before, the Sipsey Wilderness is called the “Land of 1,000 Waterfalls” so you better be adding a couple of these to your weekend plans. If you don’t make it a destination, chances are you will still come across a few along the way.

One of our favorite spots is Kinlock Falls as it is a short hike that leads you to a beautiful cascading waterfall and an even better swimming hole. Kinlock Falls is also considered Alabama’s Natural Waterslide. A lot of visitors bring tubes and slide down the falls as it is not very steep and the top is accessible from the side. Slide at your own risk or just bring a tube to float in the swimming hole and catch some rays.

Other top waterfalls in the Sipsey and Bankhead National Forest to check out are Sougahoagdee Falls, Parker Falls, Mize Mills Falls, and Caney Creek Falls. 

Ready to be outdoors this Summer? We have the Spring outdoor gear you need to get you back on the trails! 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

Greetings!

I’m Carl Stanfield, former Alabama Outdoors Store Manager and employee for the last 3 years. After a season of life most of us are ready to stop talking about, I’m starting my next chapter with the biggest adventure I could fathom during the quarantine days. In 2022, I will be attempting to spend my entire year backpacking. And I just might break a record along the way.

Hiking Background

I spent the latter half of my twenties gathering experiences in wilderness travel and alternative living. In 2018, I spent 4 life-changing months thru hiking the entirety of the Appalachian Trail, 2,200 miles from Georgia to Maine. Good fortune proceeded to spit me out of another successful thru hike the following year at the Canadian Border in Washington, having traveled 2,650 miles from Mexico by way of the Pacific Crest Trail. 

These experiences were challenging and deeply rewarding in their own ways. I loved the challenge, the trail community, the healthy mind, and the overall effect on my calves. 

So… What Do You Do After That?

But now, as I creep closer to the beginning of my 30th year of life and an anticipated drop in my body’s peak performance, I want to attempt a truly extreme athletic accomplishment. I know that my body can hold up for 4 or 5 months of wear and tear at a time, but could it take a year? I’d like to find out.

It turns out that the thru hiker lifestyle of living on America’s National Scenic trails and eating freeze dried food for months on end while meeting quirky fascinating people in small mountain towns is where I’ve found the zenith of happiness. I truly love that adventure, more than anything I’ve ever felt. And so far I’ve been quite pleased with how those experiences translate into “regular life” opportunities. I believe it is my trail record that helped my career at Alabama Outdoors, and I expect that expanding on it will continue to open doors for me.

The Goal

And so it is that next year, I will be attempting to travel 11,000 miles on 4 hiking routes through 24 states, pursuing both extrinsic and intrinsic milestones. These routes are the Eastern Continental Trail (Key West to Canada, 4,200 miles), the Pacific Crest Trail (Mexico to Canada, 2,650 miles), the Continental Divide Trail (Canada to Mexico, 3,100 miles), and the Mountains to Sea Trail (North Carolina, 1,100 miles). I believe the current record for miles traveled on foot in a calendar year to be roughly 10,300, set by arguably the most traveled backpacker in history, Cam Honan. 

The Route

My planned route will begin in Key West, Florida on January 1, 2022. A 200 mile road walk will take me to the southern terminus of the Florida Trail, where I will hike roughly 1,100 miles to the Alabama border. Another multi-hundred mile road walk takes me to the 340 mile Pinhoti Trail, which, after a small connecting trail, will get me to the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail. 2,200 miles later I will complete the first leg, ideally by mid to late May. Leg 2, the Pacific Crest Trail, will span 2,650 miles traveling north from mid May to early August. I will then hop onto the Continental Divide Trail in Canada and hike back down south to the Mexican border. 

This would complete the famed Triple Crown of Hiking, but I’ll still have one more relatively small trail I’d like to tackle. The Mountains to Sea Trail spans 1,100 miles and the width of North Carolina. I hope to start on the coast and hike west, finishing my trip near my home town of Maryville, Tennessee.

In order to achieve this lofty goal of mine, I will need to average just over 30 miles every day for the entire year. It’s a wild stretch of a goal to say the least, and I really do understand how insane it must sound. But I believe it is just on the brink of what is physically possible for me, and I want to try while I can.

Throughout this endeavor, Alabama Outdoors will be partnering with me, so you can expect to stay in touch through them! If you’re interested in following my personal account, you can do so on Instagram @prof_carl. 

Happy Trails!

Visit the ghostly grounds of haunted Old Cahawba.

 

 

If you’re fascinated by ghosts, shadow people, and things that rustle in the night, you should plan a haunted hike to add a new twist to your Halloween celebration. Whether you’d like to trek through a eerie pocket of the backcountry, or simply stroll through a creepy cemetery, you’ll find that Alabama has plenty of destinations that will send a chill up your spine. Here are a few of our favorite haunts:

Blue Mountain Shelter on the Pinhoti Trail

Each year, hundreds of people hike Alabama’s veritable long trail, the Pinhoti, and spend their nights in the many trail shelters that dot the path. In Section 7 of the trail, at mile 2.1, you’ll encounter the Blue Mountain Shelter, which has developed a bit of spooky reputation.

Built in 1983 the shelter is an unassuming, 3-sided, typical trail shelter. But, inside, you’ll see where someone has written, “There are shadow people here!”

Those who spend the night in the shelter have reported seeing strange shadows and hearing weird noises like scratching sounds on the walls. After hearing the noises, hikers have investigated the area and claimed that there were no signs of animals, and there are no trees located close to the shelter.

Old Cahawba Archaeological Park

Old Cahawba in the 1860s was a major prison for Union soldiers during the Civil War. Joe Cuhaj

 

Old Cahawba has had quite a history. Beginning in the early 1800s, it was a bustling cotton distribution hub along the Alabama River. In 1820, it became the first state capital, and in the 1860s it was a major prison for Union soldiers during the Civil War. Today, you can roam those same streets—more than 5 miles of them—and you might come face to face with some of the town’s past residents, like the spirit of a key-stealing slave.

Not long ago, the site director for the Old Cahawba Archaeological Park and paranormal investigators made an audio recording in the “New Cemetery” where the white people of town were buried. On the recording they heard a voice say, “Don…key”.

The following day, Don, the park’s maintenance supervisor, came in and told the director he couldn’t find his keys. They found them in the slave cemetery on the other side of the park next to the grave of the key-stealing slave.

If space is available, you should try to join the park’s annual Haunted History Tour.

 

Old Cahawba Prairie Tract

Are there ghosts haunting the Forever Wild’s Old Cahawba Prairie Tract in Selma? Could be.

The site was once owned by Jesse Beene, whose uncle was William Lowndes Yancey, and Yancey is credited with helping Alabama enter the Civil War. Legend has it that all of Yancey’s slaves were poisoned at a well somewhere on the property. When Yancey died, he was buried in a family plot on the Old Cahawba Prairie Tract, but at some point the tombstones were removed, and the family graves were most likely plowed under by farmers. However, the bodies of those dead and gone are still somewhere on this tract, and their spirits are waiting to tell you their tale.

Fort Morgan Historic Site

Witnesses say that if you are near the fort in the evening you can hear screams. Bradley Huchteman

 

Only a short drive west from Gulf Shores is the Fort Morgan Historic Site. Visitors can take a 2.4-mile ramble around the grounds to visit many historic sites and the fort itself.

Built in 1834, this massive stone fortress was built to defend the nation against foreign invaders. In 1864, it played an important role in the Civil War’s “Battle of Mobile Bay” that killed 322 Union troops and 1,500 Confederates.

Witnesses say that if you are near the fort in the evening, or are afforded a rare opportunity to enter it after hours, you can hear the screams of those who died. You might even see the ghostly figure of a woman who was killed during the battle and whose spirit continues to roam the grounds.

If you plan a visit, be aware that the fort hosts a haunted tour one night only in October.

 

Tuskegee National Forest

The smallest national forest in the state, Tuskegee near Auburn features the 8.5-mile Bartram Trail, which closely follows the footsteps of 18th Century botanist William Bartram. While walking the trail, hikers have heard some strange noises.

According to accounts, devil worshippers used to use an old house in the forest for bizarre meetings and ceremonies. In the early 1990s, the local sheriff’s office raided the house and discovered bodies. It’s said that the group feared the sheriff would find a secret burial ground they had established nearby and burned the house down. Ever since then, hikers have reported hearing weird sounds…perhaps the victims?

 

Sloss Furnace

Sloss Furnace is one of the most haunted sites in Alabama. Shannon McGee

 

Known as the most haunted site in Alabama, the old Sloss Furnace in Birmingham has been featured on the television series “Ghost Hunters.”

The furnace was a major foundry in the region from 1882 to 1971, when it supplied steel to the entire country. In the early 1900s, the foreman for the night shift was James “Slag” Wormwood, a hard-driving manager who often made his workers do very dangerous jobs. While Wormwood was in charge, 47 workers died.

Slag died when he accidentally fell into the molten iron. After the accident, workers reported hearing a disembodied voice say, “Get back to work.” Years later, three supervisors went missing and were eventually found unconscious and locked in a small boiler room. The last thing they remembered was that a man with badly burned skin came up and told them to “Push some steel!”

 

Nancy’s Mountain

Hike Nancy’s Mountain and you might catch a glimpse of Nancy herself. Joe Cuhaj

 

OK, a little personal experience about a nondescript hiking trail called Nancy’s Mountain.

The trail itself is not spectacular, just a wonderful walk in the woods, especially in the fall when the trees are vibrant with color. The trail is located in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Haines Island Park on the banks of the Alabama River in Franklin. The trailhead parking area also serves as the landing for the Davis Ferry.

As the story goes, Nancy and her family lived on top of the mountain,and Nancy’s only son went off to fight for the Confederacy in the Civil War. Months passed without word from her boy, and Nancy became distraught. Every day she would walk to the river to see if her son had returned home on one of the passing boats, but he never did. Her husband decided he would set off to look for him.

More time passed when word finally arrived that her husband was found frozen to death next to the grave of an unknown soldier in Tennessee. Soon after, Nancy disappeared, never to be seen again.

Race ahead to the present and Nancy has been seen on the trail. Former park superintendent Ike Lyons says that on several occasions campers on the mountain were seen running for their lives because they had seen a woman dressed in period clothing “floating” down the trail with a lantern in her hand.

Not long ago I walked Nancy’s Mountain with my big rescue Labrador, Archer. It was a cool morning with fog from the river shrouding the mountain. Archer loves to lead the way on hikes, but this time he wouldn’t budge. He would not hike the trail. He just sat down and whimpered.

Was it coincidence or was it Nancy? Hike the trail in the early morning or evening and see for yourself.

 

Find your favorite Fall gear at Alabama Outdoors. 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

Featured image provided by Scott Weingart