Hike Scenic Trails: Adventure Awaits in Alabama
The Heart of Dixie’s humid, subtropical temperatures make for hot summers and not-so-harsh winters, making it the ideal state to go out for a hike almost any time of year. For outdoor lovers looking for a scenic stroll by rivers and through forests, Alabama can provide you with the perfect backdrop. Here are the 14 best hiking trails in Alabama.
Falling Rocks Falls Hike, Montevallo, AL
This short 1.5-mile hike reveals a hidden treasure. Leading to a 90-foot waterfall, the trail takes you through the beautiful greenery. See the place at its most beautiful when the sun is rising.
DeSoto Scout Trail, Fort Payne, AL
This difficult trail is 3.1 miles in a tracked loop. Get the full experience of the great outdoors with a waterfall and river that are worth the hike. Canoeing is also possible in the river, for those looking for activities outside of the hike.
Walls of Jericho Trail, Estillfork, AL
Walls of Jericho Trail is phenomenal. Rated as difficult, the trail is six miles and features a captivating waterfall hidden within a rock cave.
Pinhoti Trail, Talladega, AL
This trail is a 20.3-mile, moderately trafficked point-to-point trail that is home to beautiful wild flowers and forestry. Rated as difficult, the trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round.
Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail, Dadeville, AL
This 3.2-mile, lightly populated loop trail is located just outside of Dadeville. With many interesting natural features, the trail is near a lake that is perfect for swimming in during the summer.
Noccalula Falls Historic Gorge Trail, Gadsden, AL
This trail takes you to Noccalula Falls, a natural waterfall that cascades over 90 feet into the Black Creek ravine. For those looking for a camping experience, the park itself lays claim to several campsites and a pool.
McKay Hollow Trail, Brownsboro, AL
McKay Hollow is a 4.2-mile trail located near Brownsboro, Alabama. The hike features beautiful wild flowers that make the rather difficult trek worth the sweat. The trail is accessible year-round, and perfect for getting out and beating the winter blues.
Stone Cuts Trail, Huntsville, AL
Located near Huntsville, the Stone Cuts trail showcases beautiful, deep erosional clefts in a large section of limestone. Some of the clefts are safe enough for kids to climb, making the trail suitable and fun for the whole family. The terrain is also ideal for mountain climbers and spelunkers alike.
Rainbow Mountain Loop Trail, Madison, AL
Rated moderately difficult, this 1.5-mile trail has a stunning forested backdrop. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, and trail running and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also welcome on this trail.
Smith Mountain Fire Tower Trail, Jacksons Gap, AL
Suitable for all skill levels, this 0.8-mile trail is simply breathtaking. The trail wraps around scenic Lake Martin, and includes a tower to get an aerial view.
Bartram National Recreation Trail, Tuskegee, AL
This trail is a 15-mile lightly trafficked out and back trail located near Notasulga. Not only is it open to foot traffic, but also to horses and mountain bike. Bartram is the true outdoors experience.
Swayback Bridge Trail, Wetumpka, AL
An easy to moderate trail, the Swayback Bridge Trail is worth the hike. The rail features a breathtaking lake view, and is relatively uncrowded.
Flagg Mountain Trail, Weogufka, AL
Flagg Mountain is a 6.4-mile trail with low traffic. Once you reach the top, you can see endless sites of mountains and valleys. You can also climb the Flagg Mountain Tower that provides even more spectacular views.
Oak Mountain Blue Trail, Pelham, AL
This 12.9-mile trail is relatively difficult. The trail connects to the White Trail and loops through beautiful forest scenery. With patches of flowers and man natural springs, this trail is worth the effort.
Key Insights at a Glance
- Alabama's humid, subtropical climate makes it ideal for hiking year-round.
- 14 best hiking trails in Alabama, ranging from easy to difficult.
- Trails feature waterfalls, rivers, caves, and scenic views.
- Activities such as canoeing, camping, and swimming available on some trails.
- Trail options for all skill levels, including families with children.
- Beautiful natural scenery, wildflowers, and forested backdrops on many trails.
- Some trails offer panoramic views from towers or overlooks.
- Opportunities for mountain biking and horseback riding on certain trails.
- Varied terrain and natural features make each trail unique and worth exploring.
