Alabama

Alabama hiking trails to explore

Published

1 year ago

July 9, 2024

From state and national parks to preserves, national forests and more, Alabama is filled with places to enjoy the state’s natural beauty. Sometimes though, that can make deciding where to spend a day exploring the great outdoors.

Whether you’re looking for a short stroll down a boardwalk, an easy, but long, loop with plenty of sights along the way or an all-day hike that’ll take you through diverse terrain, there’s a hiking trail in Alabama that has you covered.

The 10 hiking trails listed below are certainly not the only ones, but they’re a good place to start.

The miles of multi-use paths at Gulf State Park include raised boardwalk sections that allow visitors to go deep into the marshy coastal landscape.Lawrence Specker | LSpecker@AL.com

The Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail at Gulf State Park

The Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail in Gulf State Park has been named one of the best recreational trails in the United States by USA Today, and for good reason. Accessible through multiple trailheads within the park and open to biking, the fully ADA-accessible trail runs through everything from coastal dunes, forests, freshwater marshes, hardwood swamps and more, according to GulfShores.com. There is also a butterfly garden, nature pavilion and playground where kids can test their rocking climbing skills or give the agility course a go.

Lakes, gators and getaways: Gulf State Park a great escape

Alabama Color 2021 — Autumn color 2021. The beauty and splendor of autumn in Alabama. Little River Canyon National Preserve. (Joe Songer for AL.com).Joe Songer

The Little Falls Trail in Little River Canyon National Preserve

The Little Falls Trail in Little River Canyon National Preserve in Fort Payne is popular among hikers because it offers a chance to end the hike with a swim, and who doesn’t want that? The .75-mile hike, which is moderate in difficulty, begins along the Little River Falls boardwalk, following the river to Little Falls, according to the National Park Service’s website. At the trail’s end, hikers can take stone steps into the canyon and down to the river to access what’s known as the Little Falls swimming hole. Be aware though, this trail is popular during spring and summer, so if you’re looking for a quiet hike, you may want to take an easy and peaceful walk through the woods on the Beaver Pond Trail instead.

How to visit these gorgeous waterfalls

Walls of Jericho Trail at the Walls of Jericho

Walls of Jericho in northeast Alabama is one of the largest pieces of mostly untouched wilderness in the Southeast, according to the Forever Wild website, making it an ideal place for immersing yourself in nature. The popular Walls of Jericho trail, which is six miles roundtrip and takes you for a strenuous hike along Hurricane Creek and more than 1,000 feet down into a box canyon that leads through Clark Cemetery and into a scenic limestone amphitheater with Turkey Creek flowing through its center. If you’re looking for something a little easier, there’s also the Bear Den Point Trail, which runs nearly five miles through Bear Den Point and offers some memorable views of its own.

Lake Guntersville State Parks — Lake Guntersville State Park has 36 miles of hiking trails through some of the most beautiful forest in Alabama. (Joe Songer | jsonger@al.com). al.comal.com

Cascade Trail at Lake Guntersville State Park

Lake Guntersville State Park offers 36 miles of trails, ranging from moderate to difficult, for hikers, bikers and horse enthusiasts to enjoy. Among the many hikes up for exploring is the Cascade Trail, which is a one-mile, moderate trail that offers scenic views and takes hikers through a natural watershed with large boulders, pools of water, cliffs and more, according to the Alabama State Park’s website. The Cascade Trail begins just beside the park’s entrance and, if you want to extend your journey, links up with several other trails, like the Waterfall Trail as well as the Old Still Path, in the park.

12 places to spend a beautiful day in Alabama

Turkey Creek Falls — Turkey Creek Nature Preserve near Pinson. (Joe Songer)al.com

Narrow Ridge Loop Trail at Turkey Creek Nature Preserve

Along with gorgeous waterfalls and perfect spots for picnics, Turkey Creek Nature Preserve in Pinson offers a system of five trails, ranging in difficulty from easy to moderate, that run through the 462-acre preserve. Among its trails is the Narrow Ridge Loop Trail, which is open to hikers as well as mountain bikers. The 3.2-mile path takes you from the Blue Hole, a well-known, waterfall-fed swimming hole, to the Narrow Ridge area, through pine forests and back, according to the Alabama Recreation Trails website. Keep in mind though, this trail is moderate in difficulty, so if you’d prefer an easier route, try the paved Highland Trail or the Thompson Trace Trail.

How Turkey Creek became one of the state’s favorite outdoors spots

Point Rock Trail at Bucks Point State Park

Bucks Pocket State Park is located within the DeKalb, Jackson and Marshall counties, offering hikers a secluded and peaceful place to enjoy the state’s natural beauty, picturesque views and more. Among its 15 miles of trails is the moderate-to-hard Point Rock Trail, which runs a little over a mile in length and takes hikers 800 feet above the canyon floor to a sandstone formation, known as Point Rock, which offers an overlook worth the climb, according to the Alabama State Park’s website. Along the way, you’ll see Little Sauty Creek, wildflowers, ferns and other plant life as well as geologic formations estimated to be between 200-250 million years old.

Alabama State Parks — Bald Rock overlook is a must-see place at Cheaha State Park. (Joe Songer)al.com

Bald Rock Trail at Cheaha State Park

If you’re looking for a quick and easy hike with a big payoff, the Bald Rock Trail at Cheaha State Park in Delta is the way to go. The .3-mile trail consists of two paths, an elevated boardwalk and a dirt path that runs alongside it. Regardless of which you take, both lead to a gorgeous vista of the highest point in Alabama at the Bald Rock outlook, according to the Alabama State Parks website. If you’re feeling inspired once you’re done there, you can also check out the Pulpit Rock Trail. It’s just as short, although a steeper hike with no boardwalk, and also offers a breathtaking view you won’t forget anytime soon.

The Magnolia Trail at Blue Springs State Park

Blue Spring State Park in Clio is well known for its crystal-clear swimming pools, pine forests, wide range of wildlife and more, making it a great place to get in a hike regardless of your experience level. That’s likely why the Magnolia Trail, a two-mile hiking trail that ranges from easy to moderate in difficulty, is so popular. The trail, which takes you through a lush forest and features scenic views of the Choctawhatchee River, can be extended another half mile by using two connector trails, according to the Alabama State Park’s website. Just think! You could spend some time exploring the scenery along the trail before going for a dip in the 68-degree, spring-fed pool.

Foothills Trail at Oak Mountain State Park

Oak Mountain State Park has more than 100 miles of trails for visitors to explore, regardless of whether they’re looking to do a quick loop or get in a full day of hiking. Among one of its longer options is the Foothills Trail, which is about eight miles one way, beginning at the North Trailhead before taking you around scenic Lake Tranquility and close to the South Trailhead area, according to the Alabama State Park’s website. Be aware, while a large portion of this trail is at a low elevation, there are some climbs. You can also access Maggie’s Glen, a spot along the stream blank that’s known as a peaceful spot to sit and observe different plants and wildlife, through a connector to this trail.

Officials reveal $13 million in renovations to Oak Mountain State Park

The Odum Scout Hiking Trail at Talladega National Forest

The Talladega National Forest is home to beautiful waterfalls, scenic lakes and plenty of untamed wilderness. Among to the trails you can take within the forest is the Odum Scout Hiking Trail. The nearly eight-mile trail, considered moderate in difficulty, takes you through the eastern slopes of Talladega Mountain and into the Cheaha Wilderness, passing the High Falls waterfall and other sites along the way. If you’re looking for something shorter where you could also get in some fishing or a picnic, try the two-mile loop around Lake Chinnabee.

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Alabama

Alabama Farmers Federation endorses Kristin Nelson for House District 38

Published

7 hours ago

January 6, 2026

Press Room

Alabama Farmers Federation endorses Kristin Nelson for House District 38

The Alabama Farmers Federation has endorsed Kristin Nelson in the upcoming special election for Alabama House District 38, a seat left vacant following the resignation of Rep. Debbie Wood (R-Valley). The district includes portions of Chambers and Lee counties.

Nelson recently secured the Republican nomination after winning a runoff election. The special general election is scheduled for Tuesday, February 3.

“Kristin Nelson is a well-respected community leader in Chambers County, and we are proud to endorse her,” said Jason McKay, president of the Chambers County Farmers Federation. “We know she will represent us well in Montgomery and ensure District 38 gets the attention it needs in the business and agricultural arenas.”

Support for Nelson’s candidacy also came from farmers in neighboring Lee County. “Kristin Nelson is a strong conservative with incredible knowledge of House District 38,” said Robert Walters, president of the Lee County Farmers Federation. “There is no doubt she will work hard and represent the people of Lee and Chambers counties well in the Legislature.”

Nelson grew up along the Chambers-Lee county line and brings experience from both the public and private sectors. Her background includes seven years in city administration with the City of Valley and three years as a third-grade teacher with Lanett City Schools.

She has also been active in homeschooling through Classical Conversations, where she has served as both a tutor and a local representative supporting other families.

In addition to returning to part-time work with Harris Gray LLC, Nelson serves as worship leader at Fairfax Methodist Church, secretary of the Junior Variety Club and president of the EAMC Lanier Auxiliary Board.

She also founded the Chambers County Young Republicans and currently serves as the chair of the Chambers County Republican Party.

“The farmers of this district and I share the same strong work ethic and conservative values,” said Nelson. “It is an honor to have their support and to be able to represent them and all the people of this district in Montgomery.”

Nelson and her husband, Jeff, live in the Huguley community with their two teenage sons.

The Alabama Farmers Federation is the state’s largest farm organization, representing more than 360,000 member families. The organization uses a grassroots endorsement process that relies on decisions made by county Farmers Federation boards of directors in local elections.

Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].

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Alabama

Tuberville officially files for 2026 Alabama governor’s race

Published

20 hours ago

January 5, 2026

Press Room

Tuberville officially files for 2026 Alabama governor’s race

HOOVER, Ala. (WSFA) – Senator Tommy Tuberville officially filed the paperwork to run for governor at the Alabama Republican Party Headquarters in Hoover Monday morning.

“I want to make the lives of the people of this state better,” said Sen. Tuberville. “If I thought that staying in the U.S. Senate would be best for Alabama, I would’ve stayed. but I think the best thing for Alabama is for me to come back.”

He talked about the need to grow Alabama’s economy, with attracting manufacturers being a primary focus. Sen. Tuberville said that to do that, he would focus on improving the state’s infrastructure and making the state’s education and workforce systems more attractive to new residents.

When asked about cutting waste, fraud and abuse, a focus of his time in Washington, D.C., alongside President Donald Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency, Sen. Tuberville said, he expects to make changes if elected governor.

“You have a lot of different agencies here, we want to make them all better,” he said. “We also want to make sure that we save the taxpayers’ money, that we use it wisely and we give it back to them.”

The former Auburn football coach said he did not expect to go into politics, but now, he is ready to transition from national to state politics.

“It’s time to come home, put together a staff and worry about the state of Alabama and the people here,” he said.

According to Alabama’s constitution, someone running for governor has to have lived in the state for at least seven years. Some have questioned whether Sen. Tuberville fits that requirement. He said during the candidacy filing that the Republican Party of Alabama says he does fulfill the requirement.

The filing deadline for candidates to qualify for a major political party is Jan. 23.

Alabama’s Democratic primary has the following candidates:

Former U.S. Sen. Doug Jones
Dr. Will Boyd – businessman and engineer
JaMel Brown – pastor and talk show host
Chad ‘Chig’ Martin – businessowner

Alabama’s Republican Primary has the following candidates:

Sen. Tommy Tuberville
Ken McFeeters – former congressional candidate

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Alabama

Who has Alabama football lost in the transfer portal so far?

Published

1 day ago

January 5, 2026

Press Room

Who has Alabama football lost in the transfer portal so far?

Alabama football has already seen some of its roster clear out via the transfer portal in the days following its loss to Indiana in the Rose Bowl. The Crimson Tide will likely see more attrition in the coming days, with players allowed to enter through Jan. 16.

As of Monday morning, 15 Alabama players had entered the portal. Here’s a look at what the Crimson Tide is losing via transfer.

Cam Calhoun

The Utah transfer was a backup cornerback for the Crimson Tide this season. He played a major role on special teams but had trouble cracking the lineup on defense for Alabama.

Calhoun began his college career at Michigan

Rico Scott

Scott was perhaps the fastest receiver on the team, but there were too many players on the depth chart ahead of him. Scott finished the year with 11 catches for 55 yards.

Keon Keeley

When he arrived in Tuscaloosa, Keeley was one of the nation’s top recruits, at the edge position. After a year with the Tide, he moved over to the more traditional defensive end spot that Kane Wommack calls the “bandit.”

Keeley finally was able to make an impact on the field this year after two season on the bench. He likely could have played an increased role with LT Overton off to the NFL, but opted to portal instead.

Wilkin Formby

Formby moved around in Alabama’s lineup during the 2025 season, his first as a full-time starter. He began the year at tackle, but wound up playing right guard as Michael Carroll took over the outside spot.

Cole Adams

Adams was the Crimson Tide’s primary punt returner. However, he didn’t have much of a role at wide receiver.

The Oklahoma native had five catches for 71 yards and a touchdown this season.

Micah DeBose

DeBose joined Alabama as a highly touted recruit before the 2025 season. He saw action in just one game for the Crimson Tide this year, against Eastern Illinois.

Peter Notaro

The Alabama kicking game was an issue at times during the 2025 season. Notaro battled with Conor Talty for the starting job in preseason camp, but Talty eventually earned the spot.

Notaro was a five-star kicker in the 2025 recruiting class according to Kohl’s.

Noah Carter

Carter was a four-star edge recruit for the Crimson Tide ahead of the 2024 season. He redshirted that season, but got more action in 2025.

He finished the year with nine total tackles before deciding to find greener pastures.

Olaus Alinen

Alinen was not a major part of what was an extremely large offensive line rotation this season. The member of Alabama’s 2023 recruiting class earned the most praise from coaches due to his versatility, with the native of Finland able to play both guard and tackle.

Jalen Hale

Hale was a contributor at receiver in 2023, before a major leg injury cost him the 2024 campaign. He returned in 2025, but wasn’t able to get significant playing time at receiver given the amount of talent ahead of him.

Joseph Ionata

Ionata was listed as Alabama’s backup center during the 2025 season. However, when it came down to it, Geno VanDeMark slid to the spot if Parker Brailsford needed to leave the field.

The redshirt freshman did see some playing time on special teams.

Jaylen Mbakwe

Mbakwe joined Alabama as a five-star prospect in the 2024 class and proceeded to have an interesting career in Tuscaloosa. He spent most of 2024 as a defensive back, before deciding to enter the transfer portal, then backing out and switching to wide receiver before the ReliaQuest Bowl.

He stuck at wideout for 2025, without seeing major playing time at that position.

Richard Young

Some turnover among Alabama’s running backs came as no surprise. Young was thought of as a potential starter at running back, but got lost in a struggling rotation.

He finished 2025 with 23 carries for 64 yards and two touchdowns.

Roq Montgomery

Montgomery did not see the field during the 2025 season. He had been a special teams contributor in 2024, and saw some snaps on the offensive line as well.

Kam Howard

Howard spent two seasons as a cornerback in Tuscaloosa after transferring in from Charlotte. He didn’t play much in 2025, finishing the year with two tackles.

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