5 Summer Day Hike Destinations in Alabama

July may not seem like a prime time for a day hike, considering it’s the hottest month of the year in Alabama. But few things can clear your head like a trek down a shaded trail in the wilderness. With a little bit of research and planning, you can find day hikes that offer beautiful views, some shade and solitude, maybe a waterfall, and maximum restorative benefits. Check out our five top summer day hikes in Alabama that the whole family will enjoy.

 

 

Chinnabee Silent Trail 

The Chinnabee Silent Trail in the Cheaha Wilderness area is a 7.3-mile out-and-back trail near Lineville that features a lake. Cheaha Falls is also accessible on a side trail. The moderately difficult trail allows leashed dogs. Recent hiker reviews note the gorgeous wildflowers along the way as well as the awesome views.  Visitors can access the trail from Turnipseed Campground on State Route 281.

 

 

Desoto Falls waterfall flowing into lake

Desoto Scout Trail

DeSoto Scout Trail is a 3.1 mile moderately trafficked loop trail that features a waterfall and is rated as moderate. Located in Northeast Alabama’s Desoto State Park, it’s actually part of a 16-mile hike with plenty of mountainous scenery that will leave you speechless.  Leashed dogs are welcome. The heavily shaded trail can be narrow and rocky.

 

 

Sunset from scenic overlook in Buck's Pocket State Park

     

Point Rock Trail

This 2.3-mile out-and-back trail in Buck’s Pocket State Park is considered moderate to hard, it leads to a scenic overlook. It starts on the floor of Bucks Pocket Canyon near the campground, and it ends 800 feet higher at Point Rock. Dogs are welcome on the trail, and you can take a break and have a picnic at and area right by the overlook.

 

 

Stone Cuts Trailmonte-sano-day-hike

The Stone Cuts Trail in Monte Sano State Park is a 2.4-mile loop trail near Brownsboro that provides gorgeous views of the state park.  The well-shaded trail ranks as relatively easy with only a 479-foot elevation gain. 

 

 

 

Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail

The Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail near Orange Beach is a 12.2 mile moderately trafficked loop trail that is perfect for cycling as well as hiking. The trail features an air station (for bikes), restrooms, rest benches, and plenty of outlooks to watch the wildlife.

 

 

 

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5 Reasons Hiking and Camping in Early Fall Is the Best

Hikers in tents on mountain at night

Soon, the heat of the summer will finally wind down (we promise). That means that we’re quickly approaching our favorite time of the year to hike and camp. Early fall from late September and early October presents us with optimal conditions for a weekend trip in the outdoors. Here are five reasons hiking and camping in early fall really is the actual best.

 

WeatherAlabama's DeSoto Falls in autumn

Summer hiking and camping is great, but it’s not always comfortable due to the heat — and it’s been a blisteringly hot summer. Early fall introduces cooler air, less humidity and more predictable rain conditions. This means that sleeping in a tent is less stuffy and a good, lightweight sleeping bag is all you need to stay warm.

 

 

Pack and supplies at mountaintop campgroundBugs

Another benefit to the cooler weather is fewer pesky bugs. While no camping trip ever will be insect-free, cooler air means fewer mosquitoes bugging you and fewer flies and gnats swarming your site looking for food. Still, be sure to pack a DEET based mosquito deterrent to protect from pesky bites.

 

 

HikingWoman wearing loaded pack on mountain hike

Early fall presents the perfect conditions for longer hikes. The cooler air will keep you from getting as drained by the heat as you might in the summer. This means that fall is the perfect time to try that long hike you’ve been wanting to go on. Always remember to take a buddy and plan hikes that make sense for you!

 

 

Red house on lake near DeSoto Falls, AL

Changing Landscape

While the cooler weather creates the most comfortable conditions for hiking and camping, it also creates the most beautiful. Trees reach their peak foliage colors in mid to late October. And, we promise, there is nothing quite like a great view of a forest when the leaves have changed. For a full tour of Alabama’s most beautiful foliage, check out the Fall Color Trail.

Get OutsideSocked feet of a couple relaxing in tent

Last but certainly not least, taking time to relax and explore and take a break from deadlines and technology may be exactly the medicine you need. Taking a break from work in the long holiday desert between Labor Day and Thanksgiving by getting outdoors is good for the soul.

Now that we have you convinced, pack your reliable hiking backpack and set out for a weekend of self-care and enjoyment as you enjoy everything early Falls has to offer.

 

Text by Amy Haupt

The Official Alabama Fall Bucket List

Fall Colors in North Alabama

It may still be scorchingly hot, but believe it or not, fall is just around the corner. To celebrate the coming of our favorite season to be outdoors, we compiled a list of our favorite fall activities. Here’s our official Alabama Fall bucket list!

Family wearing rainboots by apple baskets

 

Visit a “U-Pick” Farm

Nothing quite says fall festivities like visiting a “U-Pick” farm. Whether you want to pick pumpkins, gourds, fresh apples or even sunflowers, Alabama has it all. Spending a day visiting Old Baker Farm and touring their grounds will put even the biggest Pumpkin Spice hater in the fall spirit.

Visit the Farmer’s Market Farmer sells produce at Farmer's Market

If you can’t make it to a U-Pick farm, be sure to stop by a local farmer’s market to pick up delicious fresh produce. The Market at Pepper Place in Downtown Birmingham is trendy, dog-friendly and has tons of amazing farm, food, and arts and crafts vendors to visit.

Sloss Furnaces, Birmingham, AlabamaVisit a Haunted House or Take a Ghost Tour

One of the best things about fall is Halloween. Visit one of Birmingham’s many spooky attractions as October 31st gets closer. We highly recommend Sloss Fright Furnace for a one-of-a-kind fright night experience.

Take a Hike

There is no better time than fall to get outdoors for a good hike and some fresh air. Visit one of Alabama’s stunning state parks to fully enjoy the changing season. Cheaha State Park offers amazing views of Alabama from the highest point in the state. Or, try Little River Canyon for breathtaking views of its river and the surrounding forests.

 

Make Your Way Through a Corn Maze child walking though the corn field

When it comes to traditional fall fun, the pumpkin-shaped Magnolia Corn Maze doesn’t disappoint. However, the Magnolia takes mazes to the next level with Zombie Paintball. Yes, we said zombies. Zombies aren’t your thing? Head over to the petting zoo or pony rides. It’s a family-friendly experience you don’t want to miss! The Magnolia Corn Maze is open from September 29th to November 3rd.

 

Text by Amy Haupt