Alabama’s trails are home to some of the most scenic views in the country. This post will share 13 of the best Alabama hikes, including a number of lesser-known hikes that you won’t want to miss!
Hiking is an excellent way to get outside and explore nature on your own terms. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or an exhilarating adventure, these hikes offer something for everyone.
I’ll start with one of my favorites: Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail!
The best Alabama Hikes
Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail
The Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail offers its visitors the opportunity to hike through six unique ecosystems over the course of 15 miles of gorgeous trails. What an incredible opportunity to be able to pass through swamps, marshes, and magical butterfly gardens all in the same day!
Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail Map And Location
Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge
Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge is an absolutely beautiful area that offers some of the most outstanding hiking trails in Alabama. One of my all time favorites will take you through a forest, past a lagoon, and ends with a stunning view of the beach. This two mile trek is an easy hike and allows you to get the biggest bang for your buck! The refuge is home to several threatened animals that can only be found in this area including the Snowy Plover and the absolutely adorable Alabama beach mouse! Also remember that sea turtles will nest at this area from June through October. Many of the trails have mileage markers as well as signage for various plant species. Finally, if you are looking for adventure, head to Alligator Lake and hike to the observation tower and see if you are able to spot any gators!
Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge Map And Location
Chief Ladiga Trail
If you are going to be in the northeast section of Alabama, you will want to head over the the 33-mile Chief Ladiga Trail, which offers an incredible pass through some of the friendliest towns and gorgeous countryside you will find. This trail follows along the old CSX railroad line, which was actually named for the Creek Indian leader who had signed the Cusseta Treaty which would surrender the tribe’s land in this region.
This is a great trail as it is smooth and flat as it begins in Woodland Park and traverses its way throughout quiet towns ending at the Georgia state line. This trail allows access to numerous ponds along the way as well as a gorgeous canopy of pines and dogwoods…perfect for those hot summer months!
One of the first places you will stop is at Weaver, which is actually a wonderful place to fill up on some water and snacks! As you make your way five miles down the trail, you will be in Jacksonville, and here you can find an old train dept, which is now a perfect place to rest. In addition, you can check out the Jacksonville State University, which holds a gorgeous campus. And directly off the trail, you can find the historic town square, which is the perfect place for some lunch.
The next 9 miles of the trail are quiet and offer some great views of wildlife if you are lucky enough to spot some. You will soon come up to the town of Piedmont which offers hikers a great welcome center and the town boasts a really great sandwich spot!
After Piedmont, you will notice that the scenery begins to change. You will soon see that the Appalachian Mountains begin to form a gorgeous backdrop in the fields. You will also notice Terrapin Creek begins to travel with you, in the not too far distance, you will follow a bridge across it. At this point, you will enter into Talladega National Forest. From this point, you will eventually find yourself at the Georgia state line and can continue your path along the Silver Comet Trail, which will run for an additional 6 miles, but it is well worth it.
Chief Ladiga Trail Map And Location
Rainbow Mountain Trails
Rainbow Mountain Trails is a beautiful trail that offers Alabama’s natural beauty at its best! Rainbow Mountain Trail will take you to the top of Rainbow Mountain, where there are stunning views from all angles. Rainbow Moutain Trail starts off as an easy hike and steadily becomes more difficult until it reaches the end – one of the area’s most beautiful attractions! Rainbow Mountain Trail is a must-do adventure for those who are looking to get some exercise and experience Alabama’s natural beauty at its best.
Rainbow Mountain Trail Map And Location
Coldwater Mountain Bike Trail
Coldwater Mountain Bike Trail is a challenging ride that will take you through Coldwater Mountain. Coldwater Mountain offers beautiful views of Anniston and the surrounding areas, as well as Alabama’s natural beauty at its best! Coldwater Mountain Bike Trails are open year-round for any experience level of hiker or biker who is looking to enjoy Coldwater Mountain.
Coldwater Mountain Bike Trail Map And Location
Martin Wildlife Park Trail
Martin Wildlife Park Trail is a great place to get out and enjoy Alabama’s natural beauty! Martin Wildlife Park Trail will take you past the Martin Memorial Tower, through Martin Regional Wetlands Center, all the way up to beautiful views of Gadsden. Martin Wildlife Park Trail offers hikers plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing along its path. Martin Wildlife Park Trail is a great place to spend the day enjoying Martin Wildlife Park’s natural beauty!
Martin Wildlife Park Trail Map And Location
Rotary Trail
Rotary Trail is a half-mile linear park in downtown Birmingham, Alabama. Rotary Trail is a great place to spend some time exploring the natural beauty of Birmingham. Rotary Trail offers plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing, with an abundance of birds living along this hike. Rotary Trail provides visitors with beautiful views as you make your way through this linear park in downtown Birmingham!
Rotary Trail Map And Location
Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail
Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail is a popular hike that offers breathtaking views for those who are looking to experience nature at its best! Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail will take you through the wetlands and pine forests of Cherokee County. Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail starts off with a short walk along an old logging road, then turns into some steep steps which can be challenging for those who are not in shape. Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail is a must-do adventure that will take you to the top of Cedar Mountain, where there’s nothing but beautiful views and fresh air!
Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail Map And Location
Cahaba River National Wildlife Refuge
Cahaba River National Wildlife Refuge is a popular destination for those looking to experience nature in Alabama. Cahaba River National Wildlife Refuge offers many different trails of varying difficulty levels, meaning that there’s something here for everyone! Cahaba River National Wildlife Refuge provides visitors with incredible views and plenty of opportunities to get up close and personal with the wildlife. Cahaba River National Wildlife Refuge is a great place to experience the natural beauty of Alabama!
Cahaba River National Wildlife Refuge Map And Location
Swayback Bridge Trail
Swayback Bridge Trail is located in Wetumpka, Alabama. Swayback Bridge Trail offers a challenging hike for those who are looking to get some exercise and experience Alabama’s natural beauty at its best! Swayback Bridge Trail takes you past streams, forests, ravines, waterfalls, and more as it winds through one of the most beautiful areas in Alabama. Swayback Bridge Trail is one of Alabama’s best hikes and should not be missed!
Swayback Trails Wetumpka Map And Location
Richard Martin Trail
Richard Martin Trail is a great place to get out and enjoy the natural beauty of Alabama. Richard Martin Trail takes you past limestone karst formations, lush vegetation, and several waterfalls for an adventure that’s sure to take your breath away! Richard Martin Trail starts off with a series of steps that can be challenging for some hikers but it will take you to a beautiful waterfall and one of the most impressive natural formations in Alabama. Richard Martin Trail is great for beginners who are looking for an adventure that’s not too challenging, but still offers some spectacular scenery!
Richard Martin Trail Map And Location
Jeff Friend Trail
Jeff Friend Trail provides access to some of the most beautiful beaches in Gulf Shores. Jeff Friend Trail is a fairly easy hike but does require you to walk downstairs at one point (which can be difficult for those who are not physically fit). Jeff Friend Trail will take you through pine forests and marshes as you make your way toward the beach. Jeff Friend Trail is one of the most popular trails in Alabama for a reason!
Jeff Friend Trail Map And Location
Hillsboro Trail
Hillsboro Trail is located in the Hillsboro State Park. This is a hiking destination for those looking to get away from it all and spend some time enjoying nature at its best. Hillsboro Trail winds through an old-growth hardwood forest, passing by several small waterfalls as you make your way along the path of least resistance.
The two-mile trail is fairly easy and is mostly a walk through the woods. Hillsboro Trail provides you with some of the most beautiful scenery in Alabama, making for an unforgettable adventure!
Hillsboro Trail Map And Location
Whether you’re an avid hiker or someone who just wants to enjoy the natural beauty of Alabama, these are some must-see attractions and hikes around our state that will provide visitors with incredible views and plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing: Martin Wildlife Park Trail; Rainbow Mountain Trails; Coldwater Mountain Bike Trail Anniston, AL. If you want help deciding which trail is best suited for your particular needs, don’t hesitate to reach out – we’re happy to help!