GivingTuesday 2023

 

 

This Giving Tuesday, November 28,
help us support The Nature Conservancy in Alabama
for a chance to win an epic outdoor prize pack from Alabama Outdoors!

Stop into any Alabama Outdoors location or follow the link below to purchase a raffle ticket(s) for a chance to win a Solo Stove Mesa XL Tabletop Fire Pit, a Yeti Roadie 24 and a $50 gift card from Alabama Outdoors. $2/raffle ticket, no limit on ticket purchases. All proceeds will be donated to The Nature Conservancy in Alabama.

 

How to enter:

⇒ Click here for a list of our locations to visit and donate in-store OR 

⇒ Click the donate and enter button below on November 28 between 12:00 am – 11:59pm CST to make a donation and enter the raffle online. *Winner must be able to pick up from an Alabama Outdoors location. $2 per raffle, no limit on entries. Winner will be contacted via email by December 1st.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Please see below for full list of terms + conditions.

 

The prize:

 Solo Stove Mesa XL Tabletop Firepit

Everyone loves a good fireside, and with the Solo Stove Mesa XL Tabletop Firepit, you can be fireside wherever you like thanks to this convenient and portable firepit. This on-the-go fire pit comes with a stand for the perfect ventilation and a carrying case to conveniently take it wherever you can have a small fire for ambience, warmth, and smores! Set it up in seconds with the easy-to-use stand and enjoy the low-smoke design as it provides unrivaled warmth and comfort. Don’t worry about cumbersome fuels and specialty heat sources, this firepit works au natural with logs, kindling, pellets, and any other safe-to-burn materials. So sit back, grab the smores, and enjoy this firepit on the go whenever, wherever.

  • The Solo Stove retains heat on the surface and should be treated like any other fire
  • Dual Fuel Grate
  • Weight: 2.3 lbs
  • Diameter: 7 in
  • Height: 8.6 in
  • Material(s): Stainless steel, ceramic

Yeti Roadie 24

Made for the road and ready to go- The Roadie 24 Hard Cooler packs more while taking less space. It’s built tall to accommodate critical bottles of wine and slim enough to squeeze behind the driver’s or passenger’s seat of a car. Now that’s what we call a road trip buddy.

  • Fits 33 cans (only)
  • Fits 26 lbs of ice (only)
  • Wine bottle compatible
  • Weight: 13.1 lbs (empty)
  • Exterior dimensions: 16.6″W x 14″D x 17.4″H
  • Interior dimensions: 10.8″W x 8.1″D x 13.4″H

Plus, a $50 Alabama Outdoors Gift Card!

 

About The Nature Conservancy in Alabama:

The Nature Conservancy has protected more than 200,000 acres in Alabama since the chapter was formed in 1989. From rare and endangered plants and animals to prairies, forests and the Gulf coast, The Nature Conservancy is working to protect Alabama for people and nature. Help us ensure a future in which people and nature can thrive.

WE LOVE ALABAMA. Cahaba. Paint Rock. Walls of Jericho. Little River Canyon. Talladega. Splinter Hill Bog. Mobile-Tensaw. The Gulf. Ask yourself about the places you, your family, and your friends love in Alabama, and the answers inevitably revolve around our iconic lands and waters.

Alabama’s rivers and streams, marshes, forests, coasts, and mountains are the beating heart of a biologically diverse landscape like none other on Earth. Our state is the center of the world’s biological diversity of freshwater invertebrates and the continental center of diversity for many other plants and animals. There are hundreds of species in Alabama that are found nowhere else on Earth.

This is our Alabama, and it is time for nature to depend on us. It is time to protect more of these places, more of our fresh water, and more clean air so that we, and the plant and animals that live here with us, can continue to enjoy these resources. We must address the unprecedented pressure we are placing on our natural world.

From the water, air, and food we need for life to the resources that provide recreation and energy, our ability to thrive and prosper depends on the choices we make right now.

You can help us with the critical work of conservation in Alabama.

Raffle Terms + conditions:

  • Raffle tickets can be purchased in any Alabama Outdoors location or on our website at this link on Tuesday, November 28, 2023.
  • The raffle period will end on November 28, 2023 at 11:59pm CST.
  • Raffle tickets are $2 each and there is no limit to the amount you can purchase. (i.e. Quantity of 5 = 5 Entries = $10 donation)
  • Each raffle order/in-store purchase will be assigned a random number, and the winner will be chosen at random and notified via email by Friday December 1, 2023.
  • Online raffle tickets orders will receive an order confirmation for your donation and your order will automatically enter you into the raffle.
  • All participants must provide a valid email address to be notified at if they win.
  • Winner must be able to pick up the prize at an Alabama Outdoors location.
  • We are giving away 1 Solo Stove Mesa Tabletop Firepit, a Yeti Roadie 24, and a $50 Alabama Outdoors gift card. Total value of the prize is $409.99
  • All proceeds will be donated to The Nature Conservancy in Alabama.
  • Non transferrable. No substitutes. Cannot be returned or redeemed for any other item or amount.

Burn Off Thanksgiving Dinner With These Alabama Hikes

 

 

Of course, it’s tough to resist that delectable dressing and gravy, as well as the pecan pie. So, instead of depriving yourself, work it off by hiking during your holiday break. After all, you can burn hundreds of calories per hour while hiking, and it’s a great opportunity to spend quality time with your family and friends.

In Alabama, you’ll find plenty of great hikes that not only burn calories, but also take you to high-mountain views, quiet streams and beautiful waterfalls. When you’re ready to work off your Thanksgiving feast, consider one of the following invigorating hikes.

Pinhoti Trail/Cave Creek Loop

Along the Pinhoti Trail/Cave Creek Loop you’ll pass a bronze marker celebrating the connection of the Pinhoti Trail to the Appalachian Trail. Joe Cuhaj

 

Cool, crisp mountain air and one of the best views of the Talladega Mountains await you when you hike the 6.8-mile Pinhoti Trail/Cave Creek Loop.

This moderate hike begins just northeast of Cheaha State Park at the stone portal of the Cheaha Trailhead on Highway 281. Half of this loop uses Alabama’s famous long path, the Pinhoti Trail, which is appropriate since Pinhoti is an Indian word for “turkey.” Along the Pinhoti section you’ll pass the bronze marker that’s embedded in a granite boulder commemorating the connection of the Pinhoti Trail to the Appalachian Trail. Further along, you’ll reach McDill Point, which offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. To return, you’ll use a connector trail to reach the Cave Creek Trail. In one section you’ll do a little rock scramble, but you’re rewarded with more great views.

Turkey Creek Nature Preserve

Take in the tranquility of the rushing waters of Turkey Creek at the preserve that bears its name in Pinson. Andy Montgomery

 

If you’re looking for quiet solitude in the woods and a fun place to work off the mashed potatoes, take a ramble along the 5.3-miles of trails at the Turkey Creek Nature Preserve in Pinson.

The preserve is closed on Thanksgiving Day, but it reopens the following day.

The paths range in difficulty from easy to moderate as they wind through a thick forest of pines and hardwoods. During your hike you’ll encounter babbling streams, a boulder field, and the rushing waters of Turkey Creek. Normally, in the summer months the creek is filled with locals and visitors splashing in its icy waters, but in late fall this is a tranquil place where you can rest beside a garden of small waterfalls and let the sound take you away.

Martha’s Falls

Hike to Martha’s Falls in Little River Canyon. Alan Cressler

 

How about a water”fall” hike to Martha’s Falls in Little River Canyon. Starting at the Little River Canyon Center, this one is an easy 3.2-mile roundtrip walk. You’ll enjoy beautiful views of the deepest canyon east of the Mississippi and visit Martha’s Falls, where tumbling rapids spill into a broad pool. This is also a popular spot in the summertime for a dip in the swimming hole.

Land Trust of North Alabama

The Monte Sano Preserve in Huntsville has an impressive array of trails. Shannon McGee

 

Maybe you’d like to get in your exercise before you gobble down all that great food. If that’s the case, join the staff and volunteers of the Land Trust of North Alabama for their annual Thanksgiving Day hike at the Monte Sano Preserve in Huntsville. The preserve has an amazing array of trails with towering bluff lines, old quarry caves, springs, waterfalls, and interesting history.

The organization has been hosting this event for the past 28 years, and the 4-mile out and back trek begins at 9 a.m. at the Bankhead Trailhead and goes to the Three Caves Trailhead. You can also choose to leave a car at the Three Caves Trailhead for a 2-mile one way option.

Looking for help with your holiday shopping list this year? Check out our holiday gift guides for ideas for everyone on your list! 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 in-store pickup! #BeOutdoors

 

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.

 

 

Top 5 Gifts of 2023

At Alabama Outdoors, we’ve curated the ultimate list of top 5 gifts for 2023, ensuring that your loved ones receive more than just a gift; they receive a ticket to unforgettable experiences. So, whether you’re shopping for the avid hiker, the lakeside lounger, or the urban explorer, our selection guarantees smiles and gratitude.

 

Solo Stove Mesa XL Tabletop Firepit

Bring the warmth wherever you go! The Solo Stove Mesa XL is not just a firepit; it’s a portable campfire that transforms any outdoor space into a cozy gathering spot. Perfect for chilly Alabama evenings by the lake or in the mountains, or even at home in your backyard when you’re just craving s’mores and the feel of the outdoors. Ignite the spirit of adventure and grab one now for the whole family to enjoy! Speaking of s’mores- be sure to add on the Mesa XL accessory kit to really turn the heat up on your s’more game! Shop here.

 

 

Stanley Quencher 40oz Tumbler

Keep your drinks ice-cold during those Southern sunsets with the Stanley 40oz Quencher Tumbler. A rugged companion for outdoor enthusiasts, it’s not just a tumbler – it’s a guarantee that your favorite beverages stay refreshingly chilled, making every sip a cool delight. While this insulated tumbler keeps your drinks ice-cold, it is the hottest gift this year. Shop all colors here.

 

APL Sneakers

Step into adventure with style and comfort! APL Sneakers blend fashion and function, making them the ideal footwear for active lifestyles. Whether you’re hitting the streets for a run or exploring downtown Birmingham, these sneakers provide the perfect combination of support and style. One step in these shoes, and you will thank us. The Techloom Pro is the number 1 style this season! Shop all styles here.

 

Rumpl Original Puffy Blanket

Wrap yourself in warmth and coziness! The Rumpl Original Puffy Blanket is not your average blanket. Its lightweight, packable design makes it a must-have for camping trips, picnics, or simply stargazing in your backyard. Say goodbye to chilly nights in ultimate comfort. With its queen size, it’s perfect for one or two snug in a rug. Shop all colors here.

 

Yeti Coolers

Keep it cool, wherever you wander! The Yeti Cooler is the epitome of durability and insulation. From tailgates to beach days, this cooler keeps your beverages ice-cold and your snacks fresh. It’s the essential companion for any Alabamian who loves spending time outdoors. Shop all Yeti Coolers here.

 

Surprise your loved ones with these top-notch gifts from Alabama Outdoors, ensuring they’re well-equipped for their next adventure!

Needing more inspiration? Check out all of our top gifts here.

‘Tis the Season of Giving! Check out our gift guide to help you find the perfect gifts for the ones on your list. Need some extra help and inspiration? Our in-house outdoor experts put together curated gift guide blogs to help you find the perfect last-minute gifts, gifts for outdoor adventurers, and anyone in between!  Browse them here!

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 in-store pickup! #BeOutdoors

Holiday Hiking: 10 Great Winter Hikes in Alabama

 

 

We all get busy this time of year, with one holiday following another. In fact, many folks get stressed out from the hustle and bustle of gift shopping and gatherings with friends and families. But, a holiday hike is the perfect cure for a frazzled brain.

Across Alabama you’ll find plenty of amazing trails that wind through calm woods to help you decompress. Whether you’re seeking a stunning mountain view, the soothing sounds of a cascading waterfall, or just a quiet spot beside a placid lake, you can restore your holiday cheer with these 10 hikes.

Shoal Creek Preserve

If you’re in Florence in northwest Alabama and you need a holiday break, head to the trails of the Shoal Creek Preserve, where two magnificent trails interconnect and allow you to do loop hikes. If you want to walk for just an hour or so, try the 2.4-mile lollipop loop hike on the Lawson Branch Trail, or a 2.5-mile walk on the Jones Branch Trail. For a longer jaunt, combine the two for a great 4.3-mile double loop.

No matter how you hike the preserve, you’re in for a treat, as the Jones Branch and Lawson Branch are home to babbling cascades and other tranquil water features.

Cane Creek Nature Preserve

A lot has been written about Cane Creek Nature Preserve and for good reason—the combination of geology, wildflowers, and rushing streams makes this a remarkable site to hike no matter what the season.

Located in Tuscumbia, the preserve has more than 15 miles of trails that intertwine, giving you almost unlimited hiking possibilities.

Of course, you won’t see a lot of wildflowers during the holiday season, but the landscape more than makes up for it. Take in a panoramic view of the canyon and surrounding hills from “The Point,” as hawks and eagles soar around you. Then, make your way into the canyon to several rock shelters, many of which are adorned with tumbling waterfalls.

Before you visit Cane Creek, be aware that the preserve has new hours of operation, which you’ll find on its Facebook page.

Monte Sano State Park Plateau Loop

Ringing the top of Monte Sano Mountain, the North and South Plateau trails make a double loop hike to beautiful overlooks. Joe Cuhaj

Circling the top of Huntsville’s Monte Sano Mountain, the Plateau Loop runs through Monte Sano State Park and provides nice views during winter. Traversing relatively easy and level terrain, this 5.4-mile double loop is comprised of the 1.9-mile North Plateau Trail and the 3.5-mile South Plateau Trail.

The South Plateau leads you to some nice overlooks, the best being the rock outcropping known as O’Shaugnessy Point, which is located about halfway through the loop.

The North Plateau takes you to another overlook and a short side trail near the park’s picnic area. If you follow the side trail, you’ll reach a nice waterfall where you can sit and contemplate all of those amazing hiking gifts you’ll see under the tree this year.

DeSoto State Park Falls Loop

DeSoto State Park is a beautiful park in and of itself but add a dusting of snow—as is often the case during the holidays—and it becomes magical.

A favorite of hikers this time of year is the Falls Loop, which actually includes three of the park’s trails—Laurel Falls, Lost Falls, and Azalea Cascade—to form a 3.1-mile loop. As their names imply, each is a beautiful waterfall tumbling down the sandstone rocks, offering hikers the sound of a soft, soothing cascade as a holiday gift.

Sipsey Wilderness

Around just about every corner you’ll pass towering sandstone canyon walls with cascading waterfalls. Chuck Clark

 

Pick a route, any route through the Sipsey Wilderness, and you’re guaranteed an amazing winter hike. Around just about every corner you’ll pass towering sandstone canyon walls with cascading waterfalls. Plus, you can stroll beside the beautiful, clear waters of the Sipsey River. With 45 miles of trails, the wilderness holds a wide variety of hiking options, from easy walks to lengthy, challenging treks.

Cahaba River NWR Piper Interpretive Trail

A holiday celebration wouldn’t be complete without a walk through the pines. At the Cahaba River National Wildlife Refuge, you can stroll down an impressive aisle of longleaf and loblolly pines on the Piper Interpretive Trail.

This 2.3-mile out-and-back hike not only leads you through impressive stands of pine trees, but it also visits high rocky bluffs that offer views of shoals on the Cahaba River.

To complete a loop, you can return on an old road, but be aware that the road is covered with gravel stones that measure 2 to 3 inches and make walking difficult.

Flagg Mountain Loop

Hikers sometimes say that Flagg is “so tall it generates its own weather.” Joe Cuhaj

 

Flagg Mountain is recognized as the last mountain more than 1,000-feet tall in the southern Appalachians. Hikers sometimes say that Flagg is “so tall it generates its own weather.” Of course, that’s a joke, since the mountain is only 1,152 feet tall. But, it does snow on Flagg, and when it happens the 1.8-mile Flagg Mountain Loop Trail is simply beautiful.

The loop is created by joining two trails, the Yellow and White Trails. If you go, be sure to add the extra 0.6-mile out-and-back from where the two trails join together to view the 1930s craftsmanship of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). Along this stretch you’ll see cabins made of logs that were hand hewn for a proposed state park that never was.

Conecuh National Forest Pond Loop

The Conecuh National Forest in Andalusia has several great trails for backpacking and day hiking. In winter during the holiday season, many of the trails are shared with hunters, but you can still safely enjoy this beautiful longleaf pine forest along the Pond Loop Trail.

This loop is actually a collection of several different segments of the white-blazed Conecuh Trail, and they stretch approximately 2.2 miles when joined together. To begin the hike, start with a loop around the Open Pond Recreation Area’s namesake, Open Pond. Then, head off to circle the dark, placid waters of Ditch, Buck, and Alligator Ponds, where you might see wood ducks and wild turkeys, as well as Bobwhite Quail darting in and out of the brush.

If you need to extend your holiday respite, the Open Pond Rec Area has a 5-star campground that’s the perfect for a good old fashioned family winter campout.

Perdido River Trail

If you have plans to visit the Alabama Gulf Coast this holiday season and want to get away from the normal tourist trappings, take a hike along the Perdido River Trail. Located in Robertsdale, the trail is now almost 20 miles long, but the first segment from the south trailhead makes a wonderful 4-mile winter out-and-back hike.

The trail follows the banks of its namesake river, which runs along the border of Alabama and Florida. As you walk, you’ll be treated to beautiful sandbars and an Atlantic cedar swamp. Plus, there’s a good chance you’ll see bald eagles soaring overhead.

Bon Secour NWR Pine Beach Trail

Pine Beach Trail weaves through a series of impressive sand dunes before arriving at the snowy white beaches of the Gulf. Stephanie Pluscht

 

Snow on the Alabama Gulf Coast? Not quite, but close enough as you head to one of the most pristine and secluded beaches on the coast along the Pine Beach Trail.

This is an easy 4-mile out-and-back that begins in a maritime wetland and forest. Farther on, it weaves through a series of impressive sand dunes bedecked with waving sea oats before arriving at the snowy white beaches of the Gulf.

Be sure to pack a lunch, and about a mile into the hike stop at a two-story platform to view birds and other wildlife. And don’t forget, the dunes play host to many species of wildlife and help protect the mainland from devastating storms. Because of this they are federally protected, meaning you should stay on the marked trail.

 

Wanting to get out and explore? Find what you need for your next adventure here. 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 in-store pickup! #BeOutdoors

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.

Alabama Outdoors 2023 Jacket Drive

How the Alabama Outdoors Jacket Drive works

Help us celebrate the season of giving by giving back to our communities with our Annual Alabama Outdoors Jacket Drive! Beginning Wednesday November 1st and ending on Tuesday November 7th, come into any Alabama Outdoors location to donate a gently used jacket and receive 15% off a new jacket or pullover. In-store only.

Donate in 4 easy steps:

  1. Pull from your closet a gently used jacket.
  2. Bring it to your local Alabama Outdoors store and hand it to an Alabama Outdoors team member to make sure it is in good condition to donate.
  3. Shop around the store and receive 15% off a new jacket or pullover at the time of donation!
  4. Jackets are taken to a local charity by the Alabama Outdoors team and donated to a person in need this winter!

 

It’s really that easy.

Alabama Outdoors will be holding the Jacket Drive at all of our locations and partnering with charities in our communities.

 

The partnering charities in each community are:

First Light’s mission is to work with homeless women and their children to create hospitality in a safe and nurturing community, to encourage them to maintain dignity, to find hope, to seek opportunity, and to grow spiritually, thereby achieving their full potential.

The Salvation Army assists approximately 25 million Americans annually. They have over 1.5 million members
consisting of officers, soldiers, and adherents. The Salvation Army helps with Anti-Human Trafficking, Combatting Addiction, Disaster Relief, Holiday Assistance, Music & Arts, Serving Veterans, Social Services & Youth Programs.

TEAM is a non-profit ministry providing food and clothing to those in need. They are located on Chalkville Road in Trussville, Alabama.

YWCA Central Alabama is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all. YWCA Central Alabama’s vision is to create a more caring community. We work every day to make a positive change in the lives of individuals and in the community.  They provide shelter, dignity, hope, and a strong foundation as they help those they serve find the strength to rebuild their lives.

Dwell Mobile exists to provide opportunities for refugees to thrive by raising awareness, removing obstacles, and restoring relationships. We envision our city as a place where refugees find their home.

Rules and exclusions:

Must present gently used jackets at the time of the transaction to receive a discount and provide warmth/weather protection. Valid in-store only at any Alabama Outdoors location. All offers limited to stock on hand; no rainchecks. Not valid on prior purchases, gift cards, gift certificates, taxes, or shipping or processing charges. Customers must pay applicable sales tax. Offer may not be combined with any other sale, promotion, discount, code, coupon, and/or offers. This offer ends November 7th at the end of the store’s operational hours. See team member for details.

Support Alabama Outdoors Jacket Drive and be part of something special that will make this fall and holiday season truly meaningful.

 

Fall is here and temperatures are dropping! Shop all new fall arrivals 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 in-store pickup! #BeOutdoors

New Brand Spotlight: mou footwear

Introducing mou boots: Your Perfect Companion for Cooler Weather


As the temperature starts to drop and the leaves begin to change, it’s time to embrace the cozy and be comfortable outdoors. And what better way to do so than with the all new mou boots! We’re thrilled to offer the Eskimo boot in two styles: the tall boot at 24cm in one color and the low boot at 18cm in 5 different color options, ensuring there’s the perfect boot for you!

Mou, a brand renowned for its commitment to quality and craftsmanship, has captured the essence of warmth and style in their Eskimo boots. What sets these boots apart is their meticulous attention to detail. Crafted with an EVA sole, these boots provide excellent support and durability for your outdoor adventures.

Material(s):
Outer: Leather 100%
Lining: Sheep Skin/Shearling 100%
Sole: EVA Rubber 100%

The genuine leather exterior not only exudes elegance but also ensures your feet stay dry and cozy, making them ideal for unpredictable weather. And let’s not forget the hand-crocheted wool detailing, adding a touch of uniqueness and charm to every pair. These boots are the epitome of comfort and style, designed to keep you snug and stylish as you explore the outdoors. While mou boots are not waterproof, they are water resistant and are adequate to wear in light snow and light rain, but we recommend keeping them dry for longevity of the leather.

Whether you prefer to shop in-store or online, our mou Eskimo boots are available now. Don’t wait; it’s time to gear up for cooler weather. These boots are your perfect companions to keep you warm and fashionable during the fall and winter seasons. So, visit Alabama Outdoors today and step into the ‘mouniverse’ – where quality, style, and comfort unite for your outdoor adventures.


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 $29.99 or free in-store pickup! #BeOutdoors

The Ultimate Alabama Climbing Road Trip

 

Sitting at the southern end of the Appalachian Mountain chain, Alabama is home to an array of crags and boulder fields that offer climbers many options for bouldering and sport climbing. Because many of Alabama’s best climbing areas are concentrated in the eastern and northeastern parts of the state, it’s possible to hit several of them without driving great distances. Really, it’s an ideal place for an epic climbing road trip, and fall will be here soon, bringing lower humidity and prime conditions for spending time outdoors. So, if you need to escape for a week, alert your friends, gather your gear, and check out our itinerary for an excellent Alabama climbing road trip.

Day 1: Moss Rock Preserve

20180831-Alabama-Moss Rock Preserve-Climbing

Moss Rock Preserve

Start your trip just south of Birmingham at a site that was nearly overtaken by development almost 20 years ago.

Moss Rock Preserve in Hoover has become one of the most popular and well-climbed boulder fields in the state. Close to 50 bouldering problems dot the preserve, and you’ll find everything from highballs to sloping mantles. There may be some light graffiti to break up the natural beauty, but the preserve is home to some of the best bouldering in Alabama.

Cap off a great day of climbing with a trip to one of the may area brew pubs, including local favorites Avondale, Good People, Cahaba, and Trim Tab breweries. You can stay the night at Oak Mountain State Park, which has 60 primitive tent camping sites, and six tent sites with electricity.

Day 2: Horse Pens 40

Horse Pens 40 draws climbers from around the world. Curtis Palmer

From Moss Rock Preserve, drive approximately 60 miles to reach your next destination, Horse Pens 40, a mecca of bouldering. It’s privately owned by the Schultz family, who live on the property and make HP40 one of the most hospitable bouldering destinations in the world. Everything you need for this stop on your road trip can be found on-site, including camping, cabin rentals, a bath house, a convenience store, and restaurant. You can even rent crash pads here. The boulder field has been meticulously detailed in a guidebook compiled by Alabama climber Adam Henry.

There are nearly 300 climbs at HP40, and many of the problems are in the V5 range, making this one of the best moderate bouldering sites in America. It’s also known as a great place for fall and winter climbing and hosts a few bouldering competitions each year.

 

 

 

Day 3: Hospital Boulders

From Horse Pens 40, head back to I-59 and travel north toward Gadsden. After you go about 25 miles you’ll reach Hospital Boulders, which is owned and managed by the Southeastern Climbers Coalition (SCC). For SCC-owned climbing areas you will need a gate code to enter. You can get the code by request on the SCC webpage for each respective area. The 39 acres that make up Hospital Boulders consist of high-quality bouldering, plus some short trad, sport, and top-rope climbs. From the area parking lot, you’ll take an easy hike to reach the boulder field, which sports more than 200 problems.

Camping isn’t allowed at Hospital Boulders, but there are good campsites at Noccalula Falls, less than five miles away. Plus, Gadsden has several chain hotels. During your stay, check out the Back Forty Beer Company, Blackstone Pub and Eatery, or Merrill’s BBQ. Blackstone is a popular late-night pizza kitchen with occasional live music, more than a dozen unique pies, and 42 beers on tap. For quintessential Alabama barbeque, Merrill’s is where it’s at. It’s usually busy, and you might have to wait a while, but they serve some of the best barbeque you’ll ever taste.

Day 4: Cherokee Rock Village (Sandrock)

Cherokee Rock Village (or Sand Rock) offers trad and sport climbing, as well as bouldering. Alan Cressler

Now that you’ve had your fill of bouldering, it’s time for the trad and sport climbing leg of the road trip. From Hospital Boulders you’ll drive about 24 miles northeast to reach Cherokee Rock Village (climbers call it Sand Rock) in Centre.

Climbers have flocked to Sand Rock for decades, but for years they had to share the area with local partiers, and it wasn’t known as the most comfortable spot to climb due to litter and graffiti. Fortunately, site ownership now resides in the hands of Cherokee County, and the park has managers on-site, along with bathrooms, a playground, and camping sites.

You can trad or sport climb here, and also tackle solid boulder problems. It’s known as a spot where beginners can gain experience and veterans can find a new challenge. There is enough room here to spread out to avoid crowding, and the first climb you approach is a mere 100 feet from the car.

Day 5: Little River Canyon

Little River Canyon boasts the toughest sport climbing routes in Alabama. Alan Cressler

Now that you’re warmed up, it’s time for a bigger challenge, so leave Sand Rock and head about 20 miles northeast to Little River Canyon. Not for beginners, Little River Canyon is home to steep sandstone walls that offer the toughest sport climbing in the state. (For more beta, visit mountainproject.com, and get a copy of the “Little River Canyon Climbing Guide.”) Most routes are rated at least 5.11, making this crag a challenge for even the most seasoned climbers.

Little River Canyon is one of the most pristine and scenic areas of the country, but camping isn’t permitted in the canyon itself. Nearby DeSoto State Park has primitive campsites, and you can use the showers in the Improved Campground. If you’re not in the mood for campground cooking, head to Fort Payne and get a belly full of Alabama barbecue at Sally’s Smokin Butt BBQ, or Bar-B-Q Place.

Day 6: Jamestown

On the other side of Little River Canyon, about 15 miles away, is Jamestown, another SCC-owned site. If you’re into trad climbing, this is your go-to destination in Alabama. Bolting is only allowed with SCC approval, and there is a tight concentration of two- and three-star routes across more than 1,500 linear feet of sandstone rising 80 to 100 feet. While no camping is allowed in the climbing area, you can camp at DeSoto State Park or Cherokee Rock Village. Your best bet may be to head to Yellow Bluff, the final stop on your ultimate Alabama climbing road trip.

Day 7: Yellow Bluff

From Jamestown you’ll drive 85 miles to reach Yellow Bluff, a sandstone cliff that stretches nearly 1,500 feet. Formerly private property, Yellow Bluff became so popular that the former owners closed it to climbing, but the SCC purchased the land in 2009. Fortunately, climbers once again have access to over 70 climbs, more than half of which are sport climbs rated above 5.7. You can also find trad and boulder climbing here—just make sure you stay within the SCC boundary.

Yellow Bluff is located 20 miles east of Huntsville and is one of the most popular crags in Alabama for good reason. Since the SCC took over maintenance of Yellow Bluff you will find fresh quickdraws, anchors, and bolts, all less than a five-minute walk from the parking lot. Camping and fires are not allowed at Yellow Bluff, meaning that Huntsville will be your best bet for accommodations (try Monte Sano State Park). When you’re in Huntsville, take advantage of the thriving craft beer scene.

 

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 $29.99 or free in-store pickup! #BeOutdoors

Written by Hap Pruitt 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.
Featured image provided by Will Gurley

Junior League of Birmingham Shop Save & Share

Supporting the local community

Your participation in the Junior League of Birmingham (JLB) Shop Save & Share helps JLB build better communities! That’s because your Shop Save & Share card is more than just a coupon card; it’s also a fundraiser that helps JLB focus on improving the lives of children in our communities through our impact area — Healthy Children: Hunger, Nutrition & Fitness.

 

How Shop Save & Share Works

  • Your Shop Save & Share coupon card can be used from October 18th through October 29th, 2023.
  • The cost is $40 and provides users with a 20% discount at Alabama Outdoors as well as over 250 merchants throughout the Birmingham area. Shop Save & Share is about shopping local, but it is also about eating local! Be sure not to miss out on discounts and deals at some of our amazing restaurants in town! 
  • Purchase your Shop Save & Share coupon card online here or in person at our Homewood location for a physical card. All buyers receive a digital pass, and you can choose to also be mailed a physical coupon card to keep with you!
  • Shop Save & Share coupon cards are available for purchase to everyone in the community, not just JLB members.
  • All proceeds enable JLB to continue its community impact projects.

Shop Save & Share Policies

  • All policies are honored at the individual store’s discretion.
  • The Shop Save & Share card entitles ONLY the cardholder to the specified discount during the specified shopping dates.
  • The Shop Save & Share card discount does not apply to any purchases made prior to or after the event dates.
  • Sale/clearance merchandise, special/custom/commissioned orders, and gift certificates are not honored with the Shop Save & Share discount
  • The Shop Save & Share card holder must present the card at the time of purchase for discount.
  • The Shop Save & Share card discount is not valid/combinable with any other discount offer or promotion. Only applicable with regular price purchases.
  • Exceptions and exclusions apply at some stores. A list of exclusions is provided to card holders in the shopping guide available on www.shopsaveandshare.net.
  • The Shop Save Share Card excludes these brands at Alabama Outdoors: Yeti, Hoka, UGG, Birkenstock, and Solo Stove at Alabama Outdoors locations.
  • The Shop Save & Share card is non-transferable, non-replaceable, and non-refundable.
  • The Shop Save & Share card discount does not apply to any purchases made online, unless the retailer is listed as an “online retailer” or as specifically stated by the participating retailer.
  • The Shop Save & Share card discount does not apply to the purchase of alcoholic beverages.
  • We appreciate your allowance to the one shopper per card policy.

 

Come shop with us in-store at any three of our Birmingham area stores:

Alabama Outdoors- Homewood
3054 Independence Drive
Birmingham, AL 35209 (205) 870-1919

Alabama Outdoors- Trussville
5467 Patrick Way  Suite 101
Birmingham, AL 35235  (205) 655-6025

Alabama Outdoors- Inverness
108 Inverness Plaza
Birmingham, AL 35242  (205) 980-3303

 

Or, shop with us online at www.alabamaoutdoors.com and take advantage of our convenient in-store pickup! #BeOutdoors

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

10 of Alabama’s Best Places For Fall Camping

Some of the best things about fall camping are the smell of the fresh fallen leaves; the crisp, cool breeze; a notable absence of mosquitos; a warm fire at night; and s’mores. Thankfully, Birmingham is surrounded with great places to enjoy them all. Whether you are a backpacker, tent camper, or RV’er, you are guaranteed to find a place to camp within two hours of Birmingham that suits your taste. Here are 10 of our favorites.

1. Sipsey Wilderness

For the camper that is more interested in hiking than sitting for hours around a campfire, you’ve got to try the Sipsey Wilderness . It is a popular backpacking trail that will give you the all-nature experience you’re looking for. Forget the campground-provided wifi and water hookups. At the Sipsey Wilderness, you’re on your own. And that’s how backpackers like it.

2. Desoto State Park

The cascades of DeSoto Falls are breathtaking in the fall. DeSoto State Park

With incredible views from the top of Lookout Mountain, DeSoto State Park is one of our favorite places for camping. Choices include both improved campsites as well as primitive camping and two backcountry campsites with shelters. There are more than 25 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, as well as kayaking, bouldering and rappelling opportunities.

3. Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park

Trails are shaded and quiet at Tannehill State Park. 

Tannehill is a great place to visit in the fall whether you’re camping or not. With interesting things such as Trade Days, where “shoppers and swappers” peruse booths of knives, jewelry, clothing, tools and many other hand-made and unique items you can’t find anywhere else. With woodcarver shows, festivals and programs, you’ll never run out of things to do at Tannehill. Bike, walk or hike Tannehill’s gorgeous trails and check out the blast furnaces, cabins and old mill from the 1800s.

4. Pinhoti Trail

Backpacking the Pinhoti is an adventure. Carl Stanfield

For the more ambitious and primitive camper, the Pinhoti is perfect for you. It is a paradise for backpackers. With a whopping 339 miles of trails from Cheaha State Park to Talladega National Forest, you’ll have to pack carefully and plan meticulously. With creeks, wildlife, beautiful views and unparalleled solitude, the Pinhoti won’t let you down if you’re looking for adventure.

5. Buck’s Pocket State Park

Breathtaking view of Buck’s Pocket. Aaron Davis

Buck’s Pocket State Park features a campground for the campers that need amenities such as water and electricity, as well as a primitive camping area for the tent campers that like roughing it a little more. Along with over 20 miles of hiking trails, there is also a playground, an old drying kiln, and a picnic shelter.

6. Cheaha State Park

Pulpit Rock overlook at Cheaha State Park. Cheaha State Park

You won’t believe the views at Cheaha. The state park is host to the highest mountains in the state, and offers several types of camping options: primitive, semi-primitive, improved, and group primitive campgrounds. With trails, overlooks and waterfalls galore, you’ll run out of memory in your camera before you run out of energy. You can enjoy rappelling and rock climbing, hiking, mountain biking, and checking out the buildings such as the Indian Relics Museum, Gem Mine, and Civilian Conservation Corps Museum.

 

7. Oak Mountain State Park


Oak Mountain State Park is great for tent campers, RV’ers and backpackers. It is, without a doubt, a state park that has something for everyone. It is the largest park in the state with 51 miles of hiking and biking trails to explore and many waterfalls to discover. Also available are boat rentals, an archery park, an educational Interpretive Center, and wildlife rehabilitation center.

8. Brushy Lake Campground

For backcountry campsites that are as primitive as they come, Brushy Lake Campground wins the award. Nestled along the shore of a 33-acre freshwater lagoon, you’ll find yourself getting lost in the beauty of the blue-green, smooth-as-glass water. It is the best base camp for hiking the Sipsey Wilderness and Bankhead National Forest, and in itself, is a paradise waiting to be explored. With only 13 campsites available, it is a smaller campground, but well-worth the visit with incredible waterfalls and endless nearby hiking trails.

9. Wind Creek State Park

Wind Creek State Park  features one of the largest state-operated campgrounds in the U.S., so this place is huge. It hugs the shores of beautiful Lake Martin and makes for some beautiful sunrises and sunsets. There are just under 29 miles of hiking trails, so you’ll have plenty of time to relax by the fire after a little exploring in the woods. If you’re a fan of birding trails, Wind Creek is also a stop on Alabama’s Piedmont Plateau Birding Trail .

10. Lake Guntersville State Park

For the tent campers that like camping lakeside, Lake Guntersville would make a great choice. The serenity of the placid, beautiful waters of the lake will make your stay more peaceful. There are 36 miles of trails to stretch your legs and explore a little, and can be customized for a short .5 mile hike, a moderate 3.5 mile hike, or a combination of trails for a hike that is as long as you like. Everywhere you go in this park beautiful, so bring a camera and have fun.

 

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

 

Written by Natalie Cone for RootsRated and legally licensed through the Matcha publisher network. Please direct all licensing questions to legal@getmatcha.com.

Featured image provided by Michael Hicks

6 Tips for Planning the Perfect Overnight Canoe Trip in Alabama

20180918-BCBSAL-Canoe

Plan the perfect overnight canoe trip in Alabama.

As summer transitions into fall, Alabama’s weather becomes the ideal backdrop for an unforgettable overnight canoe trip. In this blog, we’ll share six essential tips to help you prepare and make the most of this perfect season for paddling adventures.

There is absolutely nothing more soothing than the sound of water lapping on a shore, canoe, or kayak, or the beautiful white noise of water roaring through a tight rocky chute or crashing on the shore of a pearly white beach.

If you’ve experienced these sounds, whether by kayak or canoe, you know how they can make a might outdoors especially tranquil. Now, imagine being lulled to sleep by these soothing sounds as you camp next to those waters.

Camping near a slow-moving blackwater river, beside a rushing stream, in dark and mysterious bayous, or along a sandy shore is truly a remarkable experience. Whether you’re a beginner looking forward to your first paddle campout or a seasoned boater, there are some important steps you need to take to ensure that your overnight paddling trip goes smoothly. Here are six of the most important things to consider.

1. Choose a Suitable Trip

The key to experiencing the perfect overnight canoe trip is selecting a destination that matches your desires and abilities. Of course, you want to select a journey that has plenty of natural beauty, history, wildlife, and maybe even a few challenges—but, it should be reasonable. It’s thrilling to dream of paddling among alligators in the dark bayous of the Mobile-Tensaw River Delta (aka “America’s Amazon”), but that dream involves certain risks that are suited to only the most seasoned paddlers.

Choosing the perfect trip boils down to picking a route that fits your skill level. If you’re a beginner, you should consider trying your first paddling campout with an experienced group or outfitter.

It’s also important to factor in time requirements. Consider how much time you have for a trip, taking into account travel times to the put-ins, take-outs, breaks for lunch, swimming, etc. That will help determine the length of the trip.

Start slow and work your way up to more challenging trips, and always keep it simple. Shorter trips on smaller bodies of water are just as fun and exciting as paddling larger waterways.

2. Consult the Experts

Pull out that old trusty paper map or guidebook or consult online maps to find a waterway to your liking. Then, use the internet to find local clubs and outfitters in the area of the waterway you want to paddle.

“The knowledge of an outfitter allows you to experience everything from whitewater to the salty waves of the Gulf of Mexico and everything in between,” says Jim Felder with Alabama Scenic River Trail (ASRT). “They can show you things it could take you a lifetime to learn otherwise.”

Outfitters can offer insights on the best times of year to paddle the waterway, and they’ll point out possible launch sites and takeout locations. Plus, they can inform you of possible campsites and identify areas prone to log jams and portages.

Another consideration is the weather. It’s not only important to be aware of storms so you can stay warm and dry, but it’s also important to know how weather affects the waterways. Heavy rain hundreds of miles north of a river will dramatically affect the river’s water levels farther south. Without warning, paddlers downstream of a storm could find themselves in swift, rising water. And keep in mind that it’s dangerous to paddle a river that has reached flood stage.

Many streams and creeks in the Southeast are seasonal, and rain greatly affects their water levels. During periods of heavy rain, waterways can reach flood stage and become too hazardous to paddle. During a drought, there might not be enough water to allow your boat to float, and you’ll end up dragging it frequently.

Before you launch, consult an outfitter, American Whitewater, or another resource to determine the current water flow of your destination and whether the conditions are safe.

You also need to identify quick escape routes in case of emergency. “With Google Earth and all the other satellite mapping resources these days, there should be little chance that you run out of places to get out of the water,” says Felder. “Anywhere a road crosses a creek, you can probably get out.”

3. Choose Campsites Carefully

Ok, so you’ve found the river you want to paddle. Now, what about camping? Many people think that any river, creek, or stream is publicly accessible. You may be just fine paddling that waterway, but unless designated campsites have been established, you may find yourself stepping out of the boat and trespassing on private property.

If land in the river—like a shoal or sandbar—has trees growing on it, it’s probably part of the adjacent landowner’s property. If there aren’t trees on the land, you’re likely OK.

Once again, this is where contacting local outfitters and paddling clubs comes in handy. You can also turn to ASRT, which has made things easier by logging hundreds of campsites along the state’s waterways.

4. Keep it Simple When Gearing Up

As you’re gathering your camping gear and supplies, remember the mantra “keep it simple.”

There’s no need to go fancy and invest in a lot of expensive gear. In general, you should try to carry a relatively lightweight load. Remember, you have to bring all of it with you. The size of your canoe or kayak will limit your load, and if you have to portage, you have to physically carry all of that gear with you. And, of course, extra weight and how it’s loaded can play havoc with the balance of your boat.

While it’s good idea to go light, don’t leave behind important essentials. Bring (and wear) your PFD, and be sure to pack food, water, a fire source, first-aid kit, flashlight, sunscreen, maps, and navigation devices. If you paddle during mosquito season, or if rain is a possibility, consider bringing a tent. Otherwise, you can choose to just sleep out under the stars.

Before you depart for your camping trip, do a shake down by loading your boat to find the perfect balance when stowing the gear. Then, eliminate any items that you decide you don’t really need.

Be sure to use watertight bags or containers to protect items that shouldn’t get wet, such as clothes, sleeping bags, electronics, matches or other fire-starting supplies.

5. Food and Water

The adventurer in all of us dreams of paddling down a river, dropping a line, and catching our meals fresh from the river. It’s a dream, friends. With luck you can, but it’s not something you want to rely on. So, do a little meal planning, and bring your own provisions. Most paddlers like quick and easy breakfasts to get the day started, a more substantial lunch, and a larger dinner.

Avoid carrying perishables like eggs, and keep things simple. Breakfasts can be as easy as oatmeal, cereal with dry milk, fresh fruit, bagels, or muffins. Lunches can be anything from PB&Js to tuna and crackers to summer sausage and cheese on crackers. For dinner, you can’t beat the latest freeze-dried meals. They’re tasty and quick, with easy cleanup. And, be sure to pack along your favorite snacks, too.

As for water, if you’re paddling freshwater that can be treated, bring the proper water-treatment system or a stove to boil water. Even if you’re prepared to treat water, you should still carry a minimum of one gallon of water per day per person.

6. Fire it Up

There’s nothing like sitting around a campfire after a day on a river. Before you shove off, check fire regulations to see whether or not campfires are allowed, where you can build them (sometimes they’re only allowed on sandbars), and if there are any burn bans in effect.

Organizing an overnight paddling trip for the first time can be a challenge, but it’s also pretty exciting. With all of the things you need to consider, it can feel like you’re planning a great expedition. By mapping out things carefully and gathering information from knowledgeable sources you’ll ensure smooth days on the water, and you’ll finally experience every paddler’s dream—a peaceful night where the lovely sound of lapping water lulls you to sleep.

 

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 in-store pickup! #BeOutdoors

 

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.

Featured image provided by Jordan Bauer