Are you thinking about planning a summer hiking trip to Alabama? If not, you may want to give it some contemplation. The state has miles of amazing hiking trails worth exploring. At least I think so anyway. Here's a quick rundown on a handful of my favorites:
1. Lake Guntersville State Park
Lake Guntersville State Park is located in Marshall County. It features more than 30 miles of excellent trails. One of my favorites is the .5 mile long Old Still Path. I like the trail because it contains the remnants of an old whiskey still. Seeing the still reminds me of the ridge runner stories that I listened to as a child. I'd also suggest that hikers consider taking the 1.5 mile long Cave Trail and the .8 mile long King's Chapel Trail. Park highlights include an old cemetery, remnants of old buildings, a seasonal waterfall and ample bird watching opportunities.
2. Oak Mountain State Park
Oak Mountain State Park is located in Shelby County. It features slightly more than 50 miles of superb trails. Summer hikers looking to break a sweat and enjoy stellar views should consider taking the 6.4 mile long Shackleford Point Trail. The trail also leads to Peavine Falls. The 1.9 mile long Green Trail is another sweat breaker that's worth exploring. Additional park highlights include Lake Tranquility and a nature center.
3. Monte Sano State Park
Monte Sano State Park is located in Madison County. It features 20 miles of summer trails. Some of the trails offer interesting stone cuts and sink holes. Hikers interested in seeing rock formations should consider exploring the 0.7 mile long Stone Cuts Trail, the 2.5 mile long Natural Well Trail and the 1.2 mile long Sinks Trail. Other park highlights include opportunities to catch sight of indigo buntings, red-eyed vireos, white baneberry and feral goats.
4. Lake Lurleen State Park
Lake Lurleen State Park is located in Tuscaloosa County. It features more than 20 miles of trails suitable for summer hikes. I'd suggest that hikers seeking a workout consider taking the 9 mile long Tashka trail. It is a steep, multi-use trail with narrow turns. As such, you'll want to keep an eye out for other hikers and bikers. The Ridge Trail is worthy of consideration as well.
5. DeSoto State Park
DeSoto State Park is located in Cherokee County. It features more than 15 miles of summer trails. I love the park's waterfalls. Paths that I would recommend to others include the Talmadge Butler Boardwalk Trail and the Laurel Falls Trail.
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