Party on the Porch: May 3, 2024

Alabama Outdoors Party on the Porch at Homewood store.About Party on the Porch

Each Party on the Porch at our Homewood store focuses on giving back to our local community and raising environmental awareness for conservation, access, usage, and education. The event is held on the first Friday evening of each month from April to October (with the exception of July which we skip as it is so hot).

Party on the Porch brings together local musicians, breweries, food trucks, and artisans for an evening you do not want to miss. This is a family-friendly event, with activities for kids, a dog-friendly atmosphere, corn hole, giveaways, and loads of fun! Attendance is free, but we ask that of-age attendees donate (not required) $10 for a wristband and a souvenir cup with your donation going to a local non-profit organization at the event.

Net proceeds from your donations at our May event go to Redemptive Cycles.

About our beneficiary: 
Redemptive Cycles, established in 2013, operates as a nonprofit bike shop in Birmingham. We offer new and used bikes, repairs, and unique programs like Earn-a-Bike and free mechanics classes. Supported by volunteers and community, we use shop revenue to provide bikes and repairs, bridging the gap to employment and community involvement. Your donation helps us empower Birmingham residents through cycling.

When?

Friday, May 3rd, 2024, from 6:00pm to 8:00pm

Where?

Alabama Outdoors Homewood Store

 

Who’s attending?

Our friends from:

Music:

Beer + Beverages:

  • Good People  Free craft beer for those with wristbands and our souvenir Party on the Porch cup (21 years and older)

Food:

Social Distancing and Keeping Kids Active

At times like this, we need to carve out time for little moments to explore and find joy. With cabin fever setting in for many of us, you may be wondering what activities are safe and adhere to social distancing guidelines?

As always, it’s important to check official websites in your community for specific guidelines. Nevertheless, fresh air and movement are important for your mental, physical, and emotional health. So we put together some ideas to keep your family active, engaged, and outdoors as much as possible!

Set a daily target for outdoor time

Try to set a daily target goal for you and your family to spend time outside.  Make sure to check the weather each day so you know whether to break out your rain boots or shorts and hiking shoes. 

Play a game of hike-n-seek

Luckily, this option doubles as an indoor and outdoor activity. A game of outdoors hike-n-seek can entice your kids to take in some fresh air and burn off that surplus of energy that’s been building up. Indoors it’s more hide-n-seek, but it is still stimulating and fun!

Hopscotch on your driveway

A timeless classic that only requires some chalk and a flat stone. BONUS FUN: Once you’ve finished your game, you can create some sidewalk chalk art and bring a little more beauty into the world with a nice mural. 

Go for a scavenger hunt This is another classic that can be adapted for outdoor or indoor fun, depending on the weather and circumstances. Here is a handy printable list for an outdoor scavenger hunt. Here is a link to a printable indoor scavenger hunt list.

Start a garden

You can start a garden by planting seedlings indoors or outdoors based on what type of vegetable/fruit you’re planning to grow. TIP: Root vegetables don’t transplant very well. You also can start your own urban garden in your apartment if you don’t have a backyard. 

Starting a garden with your kids is a great way to grow their curiosity and natural wonder and teach them about self-sustainability.

Go for a hike

You don’t have to live near a mountain range to go for a hike. You could trek around park that’s close to your house or take a day trip to explore the many trails there. Just be mindful to stay six feet from neighbors/friends or other hikers you come across. Continue to use caution and practice social distancing.

Build a fort or go “camping” in your living room

Move the coffee table, clear your living room floor, and let your child’s imagination run wild. Don’t have a tent? No worries! Grab some sheets, pillows, cozy blankets, and snacks. Try creating the camping ambiance with twinkle lights and a flashlight. 

Work out at home

Social distancing doesn’t have to mean social isolation. Many of us find community in our local gyms and, with gyms closed for the foreseeable future, we have to find other avenues of breaking our daily sweat. 

Many gyms are doing online classes (and lots of them are free!) or live Instagram stories to host a virtual class. Support them during this difficult time and do a family workout in your living room.

We want everyone to enjoy the outdoors, and we work to build loyalty one connection at a time.  Visit our online store and take advantage of guaranteed 24-hour shipment or curbside delivery! #BeOutdoors

Five Awesome Alabama Trails to Discover This Spring

If hiking is your passion and you are looking for outdoor fun this spring, Alabama is a good place to call home. According to, the Yellowhammer State boasts more than 560 great hiking trails. Here are five highly rated Alabama trails for your spring and summer must-hike list.

North Alabama: Cane Creek Canyon Nature Preserve

Cane Creek Canyon Nature Preserve is a 700-acre, privately owned nature preserve in Northwest Alabama. A cooperative project with the Nature Conservancy of Alabama, it’s open to the public year-round, Friday through Sunday plus holidays, from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Eastern Alabama: Chinnabee Silent Trail

Located in the Talladega National Forest, 392,567 acres of breathtaking beauty at the southern edge of the Appalachian Mountains, this 7.3 mile, moderately trafficked, the out-and-back trail takes hikers through multiple habitats, making it ideal for birdwatchers.

The elevation gain is 892 feet and peak hiking months are March through November. You can bring your pup, but you’ll need to keep them on a leash. The trail can be rocky, wet and has blowdowns, so choose your footwear carefully. 

Trail highlights include Cheaha Falls, Devil’s Den, and Lake Chinnabee. Much of the trail is shady though, making it a good hot-weather trek. Hikers who experienced the trail said the “scenery is just awesome” and called it “my favorite trail of all time.”

Central Alabama: Blue Trail to King’s Chair Overlook

Oak Mountain State Park, located 20 miles south of Birmingham, is the state’s largest state park with  25 miles of hiking trails. The 14.1-mile, out-and-back Blue Trail is one of the most difficult. With a 2,139-foot elevation gain, the steep trail can be challenging, so consider bringing trekking poles. It’s accessible year-round and allows dogs on leashes.

Hikers will encounter creeks, waterfalls, and stunning overlooks, including King’s Chair. The overlooks are exposed and sunny, but much of the trail is shaded. If 14.1 miles isn’t challenging enough, you can easily connect to other trails in the park during the warmer months. Folks over the age of 12 will pay $12 to enter the park, children age 6-11 and seniors over 62 can get in for $1, and there’s no fee for children under 5.

Eastern Alabama: Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail

One of the most scenic trails in the state, Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail is a 3.2 mile, lightly trafficked loop trail with an elevation gain of 383 feet. Open all year, and dog-friendly. The trail offers a shaded, well-marked hike that is accessible to all ages and all skill levels. However, the Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail Association recommends parents only bring children 12 years and older. Children ages 12 to 14 years old should have adult supervision, the association says.

The lake views set this trail apart, as does Chimney Rock, one of Lake Martin’s most famous landmarks. Consider a picnic atop some of the larger rocks that rim the lake. Hikers who reviewed the trail said it was “a great trail with beautiful views” and “highly recommended.” The trail is open daily from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

South Alabama: Rosemary Dunes Trail

Alabama’s beautiful trails go through the mountains, around the lakes and finally, to the beach. In Orange Beach, you’ll find the Rosemary Dunes Trail, a 4.3 mile, moderately trafficked, out-and-back trail. It’s nearly flat, with an elevation gain of only 32 feet. The wheelchair-friendly paved trail is suitable for all skill levels. It’s accessible all year long and has a small playground and picnic area. The free trails are open during daylight hours.

The wildlife and vegetation make this trail unique. Don’t be surprised if you spot an alligator or two, as well as other marsh-dwelling animals. As the trail goes through multiple habitats, it’s also a good trek for birders. Hikers rave about the wildflowers, cattails, and water lilies, as well as the pollinator garden filled with butterflies. But prepare for a sunny, humid hike. Trail reviewers called it “absolutely pristine” and “a great place to bird and herp.”

 

Ready to be outdoors this Spring? 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

Camping in Alabama: Five Great Destinations

 

While some die-hard outdoor enthusiasts opt to camp year-round, others prefer to wait until the days are a little longer and the temperature is a little warmer. Spring in Alabama is the perfect time to hit the trails and pitch a tent, as the trees are budding and the wildflowers are starting to bloom, but the bugs and humidity have yet to make their annual return. Here are five popular — and unique — camping opportunities in the Yellowhammer State. 

DeSoto State Park in Fort Payne

Located atop Lookout Mountain in northeast Alabama, the 3,500-acre DeSoto State Park features waterfalls, wildflower fields, and plenty of rustic beauty. Nearby sites of interest include the Little River Canyon Preserve, the 104-foot Desoto Falls, and the Walls of Jerico Forever Wild Tract.

Accommodations

The park offers an improved campground with 94 full-hookup tent and RV sites, primitive camping sites for tents, and two backcountry campsites with shelters.

Recreation & Attractions

You can find something for everyone at DeSoto. Recreational activities include kayaking, biking, cycling, bouldering, rappelling, hiking, fishing, and wildflower expeditions. The historic park also has a picnic area and an ADA-accessible boardwalk trail.

The park is free. Pets and fires are allowed. Reservations can be made online.

Cheaha State Park in Delta

Cheaha is the oldest, continuously operating state park in Alabama. It’s also home to the state’s highest point, Cheaha Mountain, which is 2,407 feet above sea level. The park features amazing views to appreciate beautiful sunsets as well as some spectacular waterfalls. 

Accommodations

The park boasts five campgrounds: two developed, one semi-primitive, one primitive, and a group campground. The developed campgrounds feature RV hookups.

Recreation & Attractions

Nestled in the Talladega National Forest, Cheaha offers endless opportunities for outdoor exploration. It’s home to the Cheaha Trailhead of the Pinhoti Trail, which connects to the Appalachian Trail, the Odum Scout Trail, and the Chinnabee Silent Trail. Cheaha also includes access to the Kentuck ORV-ATV trail.

Park fees are: Age 0-3 free, 4-11 $2, 12 and older $5, Seniors 62+ $2, Veterans and Active Military (with ID) enter for free. Annual passes are $55 for seniors/disabled, $105 for individuals 12 and older and $155 for a family of up to six. Fires and pets are allowed. Reservations can be made online.

Deerlick Creek  near Tuscaloosa

Deerlick Creek is a shoreline located on Holt Lake that was created by damning the Black Warrior River. The creek and river connect to the Tom Bigbee Waterway, which includes six lakes with a total length of 457 miles and nearly 40,000 surface acres of water. The shoreline campground is nestled in a hardwood and pine forest, where plenty of turkey, deer, migratory birds, and bluebirds live.

Accommodations

Forty-six campsites include electric and water hookups and access to showers, while six of the sites are tent-only. In addition, the campground features a picnic shelter that can be reserved, a mixed-use court, and a swimming beach.

Recreation & Attractions

Watersports and fishing opportunities are abundant at Deerlick Creek. The waterway is populated with bass, crappie, bream, catfish and more. Boating and swimming are popular, and the area has numerous hiking trails and a paved bike trail.

Nightly fees range from $20-$30. Pets and fires are allowed. You can check site availability online.

Gulf State Park in Gulf Shores

Enjoy two miles of sandy white beaches and crystal-clear salt water as well as Lake Shelby, a 900-acre freshwater lake. The park’s 6,500 sun-drenched acres provide ample opportunity for everyone to enjoy their outdoor passion.

Accommodations

There’s lots of room and all kinds of camping with a 496-site improved campground that features pull-through and back-in sites, waterfront sites, and ADA-accessible sites. Paved pads provide full hookups, and the park also features three new “glamping” sites and 11 primitive camping sites. You’ll find picnic tables throughout the park. 

Recreation & Attractions

Obviously, popular activities include boating, fishing, swimming, kayaking, canoeing, paddling, and even parasailing are popular choices. It also features hiking and biking trails, a wildflower and butterfly garden, and much more. 

But keep in mind that Gulf State Park is home to many types of wildlife, including alligators. Please be aware at all times and respectful.

The free park allows fires and dogs. You can make camping reservations online.

Bartram Canoe Trails in Mobile

The 250,000-acre Mobile-Tensaw Delta is the second largest river delta in the United States. It’s a vast wetland of marshes, swamps and bottomland hardwood ecosystems and home to more than 50 endangered animal and plant species. It’s also where you’ll find the Bartram Canoe Trails, one of the longest aquatic trails in the country. Bartram Canoe Trails features six day-use trails and six overnight trails, which take canoeists, kayakers and recreational boaters through miles of rivers, streams, lakes, sloughs, and bayous.

Accommodations

The trail system features two primitive land-based campsites, which are open to anyone on a first-come, first-served basis. Along the upper trail overnight route, you will find four floating platform campsites. Meanwhile, the lower trail overnight routes have four elevated camping shelters. Only canoeists and kayakers can reserve the floating platforms and elevated camping shelters.

Recreation & Attractions

Obviously, canoeing, kayaking, and boating are the primary means of exploring the 170+ miles of trails through the delta. Bartram allows fishing. However, the trail system discourages swimming due to the local alligator populations.

You can reserve the water-based campsites online for a $26.50 fee. Fires are allowed in the land-based campsites only. No pets are allowed.

 We want everyone to enjoy the outdoors, and we work to build loyalty one connection at a time.  Visit our online store and take advantage of guaranteed 24-hour shipment or curbside delivery! #BeOutdoors

Holiday Gathering Essentials

Friends clink glasses in a gazebo.

Rain, sleet, snow, wind: nothing can keep you and your loved ones from going outside, not even dropping temperatures or unruly weather. These 12 outdoor holiday gathering essentials will keep you clinking glasses in comfort and style.

 

Dylan Women's Sherpa Long Reversible Vest.

Dylan Women’s Sherpa Long Reversible Vest

The perfect, adaptable addition to your fall and winter wardrobe, this chic reversible vest pairs with just about any winter outfit.

 

 

 

Corkcicle Stemless Flute DeluxeCorkcicle Stemless Flute Deluxe in Glampagne.

Great for any banquet, brunch or bachelorette party, the Stemless Flute keeps every sip of your champagne cold and your Irish coffee hot.

 

 

 

UGG Women's Classic Short II Boots.UGG Women’s Classic Short II Boots

These boots have been updated with Treadlite by UGG™ soles, providing them with cushioning and traction on both wet and dry surfaces.

 

 

 

Arc’teryx Women’s Nuri InsulatedArc'teryx Women's Nuri Insulated Coat.

Not only is this coat water repellent, but its grey goose down insulation ensures warmth on the coldest days.

 

 

Arc'teryx Men's Proton Hoodie.

Arc’teryx Men’s Proton LT Hoody Jacket

With thermal protection that lets air pass freely in and out, this jacket delivers comfort in any temperature.

 

 

 

MPOWERD Luci Solar String LightsMPOWERD Luci Solar String Lights.

These solar-powered lights will bring the sparkle to any holiday party.

 

 

 

Barbour Women's Wray Gilet Vest.

Barbour Women’s Wray Gilet Vest

This Barbour vest’s adjustable waist guarantees a great fit. Plus, its patch pockets make perfect hand-warmers in a pinch.

 

 

 

SOREL Men's Cheyanne II Full Grain Duck Boots.SOREL Men’s Cheyanne II Full Grain Duck Boots

These fully insulated, waterproof boots protect your feet in style in any weather condition.

 

 

 

Barbour Men's Endsleigh Tattersal Long-Sleeve Shirt.

Barbour Men’s Endsleigh Tattersal Long-Sleeve Shirt

Thanks to Barbour’s wearability and high quality, this shirt will feel like it was tailored just for you.

 

 

 

Gentlemen’s Hardware Rocking Whisky GlassesGentlemen's Hardware Rocking Whisky Glasses.

A perfect gift for any occasion, these cleverly designed glasses can rock back and forth without spilling.

 

 

 

Barbour Men's Ashby Wax Jacket.Barbour Men’s Ashby Wax Jacket

Featuring a cord collar with a throat strap and angled hand-warmer pockets, this jacket is equal parts stylish and practical.

 

 

 

Canada Goose Men’s Garson Down VestCanada Goose Men's Garson Down Vest.

The suede tricot-lined guard and storm flap covering the front zipper makes this lightweight vest ideal for weather between 40℉ and 25℉.

 

 

 

Text by Nick Adrian

12 Outdoor Adventure Essentials

Couple looks out over autumn mountaintop vista.

The crisp breeze, the crunch of dried leaves, firecrackers of fall foliage and sweeping summit views: all season long, we marvel at the autumn landscape’s wonders. And it’s no wonder that this is our favorite time of year to gather with friends and family and head outdoors for an autumnal adventure. These outdoors adventure essentials will keep you warm, safe, and dry no matter where the landscape takes you.

Camping family roasts marshmallows.NEMO Men’s Disco 30° Down Sleeping Bag – Regular

This sleeping bag lets you personalize your comfort. Plus, it’s water-resistant, keeping your feet dry and ensuring a great night’s sleep wherever you are.

SOREL Women’s Out ‘N About Plus Leather Duck Boots

Pesky afternoon showers are unpredictable, so be prepared with these waterproof boots. They’re as functional as they’re fashionable.

Osprey Exos 48 Backpack

This backpack offers mesh Airspeed™ Suspension for airflow and an ExoForm™ hipbelt and shoulder harness, ensuring all-day comfort while hiking.

Cotopaxi Unisex Teca Windbreaker Half-Zip Pullover Couple hikes through autumn woods.

This pullover is easy to pack and weather-resistant: perfect for any terrain!

Hydro Flask Unbound Series Soft Cooler Pack – 22L

This cooler pack keeps your goods cold for up to 48 hours and offers enough room to store 24 12oz cans, as well as side and dry storage pockets for additional drinks.

KEEN Women’s Terradora Waterproof Mid Boots

Designed especially for women, these boots provide all-day comfort whether you’re on a hike or hiking through the mall for Christmas shopping.

Gentlemen’s Hardware Survival Kit

The Gentlemen’s Hardware Survival Kit’s includes a compass, fire starter tool, six-in-one penknife tool, tweezers, 210cm of rope, ten safety pins and wire saw. It’s a must-have travel tool for any outdoors enthusiast.

Two friends set up campsite.Salomon Men’s X Ultra 3 Mid GTX Hiking Shoes

With a mid-height ankle, aggressive grip and GORE-TEX® weather protection, these shoes are a hiker’s best friend.

Klymit Static V Sleeping Pad

The Static V is designed to conform to the shape of your body, providing the ultimate comfort for a great night’s rest.

Lole Women’s Emeline Packable Insulated Jacket

With its compact pouch and lightweight packability, this insulated jacket from Lole will keep you warm no matter how chilly theMom shows son mountaintop view. campsite may seem in the morning.

GoPro Hero 7 Black Bundle with SD Card

The best that GoPro has to offer, the Hero 7 enables you to shoot up to 4k video with Gimbal-like Stabilization.

Hydro Flask Limited Edition Escape Collection Wide Flex Cap – 32oz

These bottles keep drinks cold for up to 24 hours and hot for up to 12 hours. They’re perfect for all-day hydration.

 

Text by Nick Adrian

How to Plan an Outdoor Adventure in Alabama

Alabama Outdoors outdoors expert Matt Stone.

 

 

The air’s getting frosty, the leaves are falling, and everyone’s starting to break out their favorite sweaters. There’s never a more perfect time to start planning your next outdoor adventure than right now. We spoke with our own outdoor expert, Matt Stone, to get the best advice on how to plan an outdoor adventure in Alabama.

 

 

 

 

Start with your destination

The first step in preparing for your adventure is researching where you want to go. Matt’s top five places in Alabama are The Sipsey Wilderness, Cheaha State Park, Ruffner Mountain, Monte Sano State Park and the Walls of Jericho. If you know where you’re going, you’ll be better able to prepare yourself, your friends or maybe even your date for the trek ahead. He suggests learning the distance of the trails, elevation, amenities, water sources and beyond.

Gear up and get preppedAlabama Outdoors hiking gear on trail.

Knowing where you’re going is important; knowing what to bring while you’re there is crucial. Once you’ve picked a place (and learned all you can about it), then you can start prepping your gear. If it’s just a day trip, Matt suggests bringing only the essentials — think water and maybe a few snacks — to keep unnecessary weight out of your pack. Another good tip is to dress in layers and invest in a pair of wool socks. Matt’s favorite are Merino moisture-wicking wool socks that keep you from getting blisters. Of course, you should always pack a map and a compass, and let someone know of your plans. Give a timeline of when they should start to hear from you again — there’s not always cell phone service in the wilderness.

Hiker marvels at sunset view.

Enjoy the silence

Going on an outdoor adventure gives you the opportunity to escape from everyday life and experience nature without the hectic hubbub of urban life. It’s also a wonderful opportunity to spend time with friends and family with minimal distractions. There’s a lot that you can do when you go on an outdoor adventure but sometimes it’s great to just spend some quiet time in the woods relaxing. Matt’s favorite part of outdoor adventuring is listening as the wind blows through the trees and watching leaves fall to the forest floor.

If you were on the fence about it before, we hope that these tips make you reconsider spending your next free weekend on an outdoor adventure. Now get out there and Be Outdoors!

Text by Kaitlin Cochran. Updated June 16, 2020.

Looking for weekend camping adventure essentials? We can help! Alabama Outdoors wants 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

Tailgating Essentials

 

Friends tailgate in a truck in woods.

The football season’s far from over. In fact, the best games are still ahead of us — which means the best tailgates are still ahead of us, too. We’ve gathered a list of tailgating essentials to help you get out there and enjoy the fall weather, friends and family, food, and — of course! — football. 

 

Keep It Cool …

A good cooler is essential to successfully keeping all of your food and drinks cold and in one easy-to-reach place. The Corkcicle Virginia Tote looks like a chic and stylish purse, but is powerful enough to keep that Pinot Grigio ice cold. The Hydro Flask Unbound Series Soft Tote and the YETI Hopper Flip 12 are both excellent options for soft but rugged coolers. If you’re looking for powerhouse insulation and an unbelievable capacity (45 12 ounce cans!), try the YETI Tundra Haul.

 

Three women tailgate by a truck in the woods.… Or Hot! 

How do you keep your drinks cold after you’ve pulled them from the cooler? With either the YETI Colored Rambler Tumbler or Hydro Flask Insulated Stainless Steel Beer Pint, that’s how. Double wall insulation helps keep hot and cold from seeping into or out of the containers. That makes them a perfect companion for late-season tailgates, where you’ll need some hot chocolate (or a hot toddy) to keep you warm.

 

Your New BFF: This Blanket

You might have plenty of sunshine, but temperatures can drop suddenly and drastically. Keep warm with the insulated Kelty Bestie Blanket. At over 75 inches long and more than 42 inches wide, it’s plenty big enough to cover you and someone else. Or, you know, just you. You don’t have to share.

 

Share the Love(seat)

What better way to warm up on those cold nights than by snuggling up next to someone? Wrap yourselves up in that blanket and take a seat in the Kelty Loveseat, built for two. With a steel frame and insulated drink holders, this chair was built for tailgating.

 

Made in the Shade

Never underestimate the value of a good pair of sunglasses — even in the fall and winter! The Suncloud Optics Sentry and Costa Del Mar Zane 580P Mirror both allow you to be outside without squinting or covering your eyes with your hand. Plus, they’re both polarized, which further helps reduce glare.

 

Walking on AirThree men tailgate by a truck in the woods.

If you’re tailgating, you’re going to be standing, walking, and pacing while the ref decides on a call — and you’re going to want to be comfortable. A good pair of shoes is essential for avoiding blisters and keeping you on your feet. The On-Running Men’s Cloud 2.0 (also available for women) are practically made for tailgating. Lightweight and adaptable, they’re truly have you walking on clouds, no matter the score. 

 

Pro-Tip: Bring a Bucket

Yes, a bucket. Why carry a bucket to a tailgate? Because you’ll need somewhere to stash all the extras, like silverware, napkins, condiments and more. Besides that, it can be used as a makeshift cooler or even chair. Check out the 5 gallon, food-safe YETI LoadOut. With sold-separately accessories like a Utility Gear Belt and a Caddy for organization, it’s endlessly adaptable. You’ll find at least a thousand ways to use it.

 

Text by Bo King

Building the Best Spread for Your Tailgating Party

Truck loaded with Yeti tailgating accessories.

Tailgating combines the joys of friends, family, football, and, of course, food. No wonder it’s one of our favorite fall outdoor activities. Clay Greene, Operations Manager at Market Table, gave some suggestions on building the perfect spread for your tailgating party.

 

Clay Greene's headshot.

Clay Greene, Director of Operations, Market Table

Cheese: A Must-Have!

What’s the most important ingredient for a successful tailgate party? Clay’s answer may surprise you: “Any kind of cheese!”

“As long as there is some sort of cheese involved,” Clay says, “guests will be happy!”

We couldn’t agree more. A cheese board and hot dips topped with cheese disappear quickly at tailgates. Clay likes to offer a few different dips for her grazing guests. “My Buffalo Chicken Dip (recipe below), a bean dip like Texas Caviar and a Hot Bacon & Swiss Dip are always crowd pleasers.”

 

Bring on the Meats

 

Clay’s second-most important component of a successful tailgate is meat: “Smoked chicken and buffalo wings are key.” She recommends finger foods because no one wants to fool with a knife and fork while tailgating. Are there vegetarians on your invite list? This delicious vegan alternative to made from cauliflower will give them wings.

 

The All-Important Drink

Last but not least, you’ll want to have plenty of beer. “Locally brewed craft beer from the likes of Good People, Avondale and Cahaba Brewing will pair perfectly with your tailgating menu,” Clay writes. For kids and booze-free tailgaters, try one of these non-alcoholic party drink recipes.

 

Clay’s Buffalo Chicken Dip:

– 4 oz reduced fat cream cheese (room temperature)

– 1 cup fat-free sour cream

– ½ cup hot sauce or buffalo sauce (Clay likes Moore’s Original Buffalo Wing Sauce)

– ½ cup Lite Ranch Dressing

– 1 tsp white wine vinegar

– 2 cups cooked shredded chicken

– A couple handfuls of shredded, reduced fat cheddar cheese

  1. Mix all of the ingredients except for the cheddar cheese together in a mixing bowl until they are well combined and the cream cheese is no longer lumpy.

  2. Transfer the mixture to a small baking dish. Top with the cheddar cheese.

  3. Bake on 350 for 20-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly.

  4. Serve with tortilla chips and celery.

  5. Enjoy!

 

Text by Nick Adrian

How to Get Started with Trail Running in Alabama

Two men trail run in Alabama.

Throughout Alabama you’ll find beginner and advanced trails. Rock/Creek

With 21 state parks that occupy a wide variety of terrain, Alabama is the perfect place to take up trail running. Whether you’re looking for a gentle jog through serene woods or a challenging trek up a rocky mountainside, you’ll find nearby trails to suit your desires.

Throughout the state you’ll find beginner and advanced trails, giving you the freedom to test your level of skill and endurance as you gain experience and progress. However, trail running is not without its own intricacies, so we’ve shared expert advice to ensure that your first foray into the sport is successful.

Join A Group

When you’re taking up a new sport or activity, it’s smart to learn from experienced veterans who know the ins and outs. If you run with a group, it will not only help ease your doubts, but you’ll avoid rookie mistakes and progress faster. Groups like the Birmingham Ultra Trail Society (BUTS), We Run Huntsville, or the Auburn-Opelika Running & Track Association will help make trail runs more enjoyable and keep you motivated to stay with the sport.

Gear Up

5sdbmq5kzYWu06k6gEWYmyMake sure you’re properly equipped to handle the rigors of the trail. Rock/Creek

Like all sports, trail running has gear specially designed to meet its demands. While you don’t have to go crazy with new gear, it is important to invest in good trail-running shoes that will provide adequate support, traction and protection on rugged terrain. You’ll thank yourself for investing in a nice, comfortable pair of trail runners as you confidently grip red clay, leap over protruding roots, and gallop surefooted downhill on the tail end of a run.

For the most part, running short distances on trails is a minimalist sport. However, like all runs of significant length, you need to ensure you are properly equipped to handle the rigors of the trail. To stay as dry and comfortable as possible, you should wear technical clothing that helps you manage moisture, wind and your body temperature. Also, you should carry water to stay hydrated and pack gels or other foods to maintain your energy. If there’s any possibility that you might get lost, you should also take navigation tools.

When you’re ready to shop, you can buy shoes, clothing, accessories and other gear at a specialty running store, like Fleet Feet Sports, or an outdoor specialty store, such as Alabama Outdoors or Mountain High Outfitters.

Jumping from the Road to the Trail

Time to talk technique. As you transition to the trail, you’ll have to slightly modify how you run. Strides need to be shorter, especially on an incline. This will allow you to react quickly to obstacles that will pop up on your run. Make sure you pick your feet up, maintain good balance, and keep your eyes down while scanning the terrain 15 feet or so in front of you. If it looks like two steps are needed, go ahead and take three. Being alert and aware is key.

Be Safe, Not Sorry

Part of participating in any sport is being safe and avoiding injury. With trail running, you must take a few extra steps on top of the standard rules for running.

Wear brightly colored clothes. If something does happen, you want a park ranger or someone else to locate you easily. This also helps identify you as something other than food for the freezer during hunting season. Second, get a map of the trail system and have a navigation aid. Make note of the phone number for the park ranger, and save it in your phone. It’s easy to get turned the wrong way while on the trail, even a well-marked one. Next, know what the hazards are. Alabama is home to more than 50 species of snakes, six of which are venomous, some of which you will see on the trail.

Also, if you couldn’t meet up with your group or a friend to run, make sure you tell someone where you are running and when you should be back.

Know the Rules of the Trail

Yo7uSyMwmaQ6MwQQgEec4You’ll find great running trails at award-winning Oak Mountain State Park outside Birmingham. Rain0975

Every sport has its own etiquette, designed so everyone has opportunity to enjoy it equally. Trail running is no exception, and its rules aren’t much different from those you follow when hiking or camping. Take out what you brought in, stay on the trail, and be kind.

However, it’s important to know who yields to whom when a trail runner encounters a hiker or mountain biker. If you didn’t know, yield to those on the uphill—they have a limited field of vision. Everyone yields to horses, and mountain bikers yield to everyone else. However, don’t assume anything, just be alert and use good judgement. Don’t sneak up on a hiker or fellow runner. If you offer a simple, “On your left,” you’ll keep them from jumping out of their shoes. Also, if a mountain bike is coming at you on a narrow trail, be kind and step off for a second to let the rider pass. They’ll appreciate it.

Where to Trail Run in Alabama

Now you need to know where to go. In Alabama there’s no shortage of trails, and the Alabama State Park system features some of the most diverse trail systems in the country. You’ll find great running trails at award-winning Oak Mountain State Park outside Birmingham; Monte Sano State Park in Huntsville; and Cheaha State Park east of Birmingham. You can start checking out the list of trails for the Southeastern Trail Run races or the XTERRA Trail Run Series in Alabama. This will give you a good start toward finding a nearby trail or ideas for exploring a different part of the state.

Written by Hap Pruitt for RootsRated in partnership with BCBS of AL.