Outdoor Adventures INSIDE

The Year of Natural WondersThe Year of Natural Wonders From ’s Gulf Coast to its mountainous north, naturalFrom wonders Alabama’s abound. Gulf Coast Someto areits mountainous known, north, and somenatural are hidden wonders gems. abound. MakeSome 2020 are the well year known, to check and some are hidden gems. eightMake of them 2020 off the yearyour to list check of placeseight to ofvisit. them off your list of places to visit. by Kim Nix by Kim Nix This page: Compass/Chris Granger page: Compass/Chris This

www.alabama.travel | 5 near Heflin until the road Northeast Alabama ends at Adams Gap Road and also harbors the Forest Service Road 600. This 5 Little River Canyon, route travels over the summit designated a national preserve and through the Talladega by public law. Eroded by National Forest, passing rural water over millions of years, landscapes dotted with rock the canyon’s rock bluffs drop outcroppings and rolling hills. by more than 600 feet in ALABAMA’S ABUNDANT Stop at for some spots. The Little River, WATER, VARIED ECOSYSTEMS, excellent views and to officially which flows atop Lookout DENSE FORESTS AND GEOLOGY note the U.S. Geological Mountain and through the COME TOGETHER TO CREATE Survey’s high point marker in canyon, provides recreation for A LAND THAT IS IMMENSELY front of Tower, one of hikers, anglers and paddlers. BIODIVERSE. In fact, the several stone buildings built by Little River Falls marks the Yellowhammer State contains President Franklin Roosevelt’s beginning of the canyon and a greater variety of animals and Civilian Conservation Corps is one of the highlights of the plants than any other state east (CCC). On a clear day, you can area, particularly following a of the . Mild see for miles from the top of rainfall. Although not usually weather and regular rainfall the observation tower. Down associated with mountainous a theater, and national park longest natural bridge east result in a longer growing season below, poke around the CCC terrain, a bog exists in the staff can answer questions of the Rocky Mountains. The for plants, which, in turn, supports museum to learn about the canyon and garners interest and recommend hikes and landmark formed as sandstone a more favorable habitat for men who helped establish the for endangered green pitcher observation areas. washed away and left iron ore wildlife. In addition, past geo- state park. plants that grow here. This behind. Due to safety concerns, logical processes have exposed carnivorous plant traps insects Cathedral Caverns has visitors cannot walk across the a mixed terrain of rocks and in its tube-shaped leaves and been open to visitors bridge, but you can observe soil types—layered factors that digests them with enzymes. If OPPOSITE: A FISHERMAN CASTS since 2000, when it its magnificence from below make it easy for more than NEAR CLUMPS OF CAHABA you come across one, consider 6 was declared a state park after after paying a small entrance 4,500 documented species of LILIES ON THE CAHABA RIVER; yourself fortunate, and take it was purchased from a private fee. Take a picnic and hike the flora and fauna to call Alabama THIS PAGE, TOP TO BOTTOM: only pictures. Learn more owner. Although the above- one-mile loop. While in the home. To celebrate this NATURAL BRIDGE IN NATURAL about the canyon at the Little BRIDGE, DISMALS CANYON ground amenities should not area, keep your eyes open for surprising variety of nature and River Canyon Center. The IN PHIL CAMPBELL be ignored—camping, hiking eastern hemlock. The area natural areas, 2020 is the Year building houses exhibits and of Natural Wonders. Turn this and gem —the real draw is one of the few places in year’s vacation into one filled here is underground. Step Alabama where this graceful, with wild treasures. into the caverns’ 126-foot- shade-tolerant conifer grows. wide entrance, accessible to wheelchairs, and embark on About 13 miles south The Yellowhammer State contains a greater a 90-minute, guided tour of of Russellville lies topography—, 8 Dismals Canyon, variety of animals and plants than any other state underground streams and a privately owned, 85-acre etched into area sandstone gorge with large east of the Mississippi River. limestone. The tours, available rock formations and two year-round and multiple times waterfalls. Many years of per day, lead to one of the moving water sculpted the Sugar-white Gulf Just north of Mobile center’s decks, or via exhibits shoals of the Cahaba River largest columns in topography into rock shelters, Coast beaches line the Bay spreads the or a nature film. Stop into the provide. While the Cahaba the world. At 45 feet tall and natural rock bridges and a 1 southernmost points 2 260,000-acre Mobile- Cypress Gift Shop to browse River sustains the largest 243 feet in circumference, it is 16-inch-wide rock squeeze of Alabama. The ultra-fine Tensaw Delta, the second- nature-related gifts, unique population, notably in large appropriately named Goliath. known as “Fat Man’s Misery.” particles of quartz were largest wetland of this kind jewelry and wood crafts made stands and smaller clumps, Other formations include a Walk the 1.5-mile trail to see washed down from the in America. Rivers from the by local artisans. the lily also can be found in “frozen waterfall,” a “pipe and feel the formations while Appalachian Mountains and north flow into the flatlands the running shoals of Hatchett organ” and “ bacon.” also delving into the lush deposited into the Gulf of and creep into , marshes Alabama’s longest Creek and the Tallapoosa River. A stop here is particularly landscape of tulip poplars, Mexico’s turquoise waters and bogs. The twists and turns free-flowing river, the welcome on hot days since beech trees, hemlocks, mosses thousands of years ago. Today, here house cypress swamps 3 Cahaba, features an At the foothills of the caves’ temperature hovers and ferns. Visit on nights in visitors explore 32 miles of and bottomland hardwoods annual spectacle so special it the Appalachian around a cool 60 degrees. May and June when a unique sandy strands, including those teeming with deer, turtles has a festival named after it. 4 Mountains rises element lights up the canyon. shared with nesting sea turtles. and alligators. More than 300 On the third Saturday in May, Alabama’s highest natural For a natural wonder Dismalites, sometimes called Volunteers flag the nests species of birds have been the town of West Blocton point, Mount Cheaha, at 2,407 above ground, visit glowworms, are fly larvae every year to help sunseekers documented in the area. While celebrates the white, graceful feet above sea level. In the fall, 7 Natural Bridge. The (Orfelia fultoni) that emit a avoid crushing the turtles’ much of the delta is remote Cahaba lily with guided tours the mountain’s mix of oak and rock arch that also lends its bluish light to attract prey. eggs. From May to October, and best explored by water, during the Cahaba Lily Festival. hickory trees interspersed with name to the closest town Special guided night tours lucky walkers may witness you don’t have to venture The flower blooms in May and pines puts on a show of fall spans 148 feet across and reveal these dismalites, the a “boil,” when baby turtles into its deepest reaches to June and is found in only three colors to rival those found in 60 feet high to connect two only bioluminescent insect in hatch at the same time from see its natural beauty. At the Southern states. It requires more northern states. Check Above and opposite top: Ken Gables Photography, opposite bottom: ATD/Chris Granger ATD/Chris bottom: opposite Gables Photography, Ken top: and opposite Above land masses, resulting in the North America. an underground nest, emerge Five Rivers Delta Resource a specific habitat of swift- out the spectacle from the from the sand and make their Center in Spanish Fort, you moving water and lots of sun, 26-mile Talladega Scenic

way to the water. can view some of it from the which is exactly what the rocky Drive, taking Highway 281 Granger ATD/Chris bottom: opposite Gables Photography, Ken top: and opposite Above www.alabama.travel | 7

6 | 2020 Alabama Vacation Guide & Calendar Hit the

CelebrateCelebrate Alabama’s Alabama’s Year Year of Natural of Natural Wonders Wonders by following by following this collectionthis collection of trails,of trails, each each composed composed of hand-selected of hand-selected stops stops that thatshow show off theoff state’sthe state’s treasurestreasures from from the southern the southern Appalachians Appalachians to the to Gulf the Gulfof Mexico. of Mexico. TRAILS 22 HIKING | 26 CAVES | 28 WATERFALLS | 32 BIRDWATCHING | 34 PADDLING

Clockwise from top left: Little River Canyon, , DeSoto Falls, Rickwood Caverns State Park, birding at Wheeler , WildNative Safari in the Mobile- Clockwise from top left: Shutterstock, ATD/Chris Granger, ATD/Dan Brothers, ATD/Chris Granger, courtesy of Wheeler NWR, ATD/Chris Granger NWR, ATD/Chris of Wheeler courtesy Granger, ATD/Chris Brothers, ATD/Dan Granger, ATD/Chris left: Shutterstock, top from Clockwise Tensaw Delta

20 | 2020 Alabama Vacation Guide & Calendar www.alabama.travel | 21 Appalachian 6 miles, or you can hike GET TO Access out and back at a distance KNOW Although not officially designated comfortable to you. Try THE —yet—many hikers consider Sweetwater or RCW the Pinhoti the southernmost Nesting Area. PINHOTI access to the . TRAIL The Alabama portion winds Wildlife Watch through the lush woodlands of In addition to turkeys, you “Turkey Home” the Talladega National Forest might spot deer, squirrels, birds The 171 miles between Flagg and Cheaha . and snakes. Mountain and the Georgia border (plus 164 more miles in Georgia) Overnights or quickly has become a favorite No Nights of avid backpackers and Camping shelters dot the route, casual hikers alike. In the Creek or you can pitch a tent. If you’re language, Pinhoti means “turkey not interested in long-distance home,” hence the turkey foot hiking or backpacking, several symbol on the trail markers. shorter loops range from 2 to Clockwise from top left: ATD/Chris Granger, ATD/Brit Huckabay, ATD/Chris Granger, courtesy of Dept. Conservation and Natural Resources/Mary Knight Resources/Mary and Natural of Dept. Conservation courtesy Granger, ATD/Chris Huckabay, ATD/Brit Granger, left: ATD/Chris top from Clockwise

don’t-miss Stepping Out BY KIM NIX details

Alabama’s varied terrain of mountains, canyons, valleys and MOSS ROCK PRESERVE plains provides hiking trails for all ages and abilities. Check Check out the 1.5-mile out this sample from the plethora of options. Waterfall Loop.

MAGNOLIA TRAIL consider a trek to Sweet When hiking variety is what you seek, Dip into one of the -fed, Home Alabama. In the north, you find steeper, more difficult hikes. As you travel south, 68-degree pools after this the landscape slowly levels out as it reaches the coast. So how do you decide which moderate hike. trails to choose? Consider your physical ability and the region you’d like to explore. Just a few hundred yards from the condominiums, restaurants and shopping centers CANE CREEK CANYON of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach stretches the . On Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail Enjoy lunch or a snack at the these 15 miles of paved trails and boardwalks, you can disappear into the quiet maritime tables in Linden Meadows. Clockwise from top left: forests and wetlands. A series of eight interconnecting trails, each compliant with the Hugh S. Branyon Americans With Disabilities Act guidelines, winds through the heart of , Backcountry Trail Butterfly WALLS OF JERICHO Garden in Gulf Shores and which is home to abundant wildlife, including birds, turtles and alligators. Go in spring or after a heavy Orange Beach, Moss Rock One of the state’s newest strolls, the at near Preserve in Hoover, Pinhoti Magnolia Trail rain to see the famous “walls” Clio, extends 2.1 miles and features two .3-mile connectors. Meander through pines and Trail near Delta, Cane Creek and waterfall. hardwoods, including Southern magnolias, catching views of the Choctawhatchee River. Canyon in Tuscumbia

22 | 2020 Alabama Vacation Guide & Calendar www.alabama.travel | 23 CANE CREEK WALLS OF JERICHO TRAIL Water proves a highlight of Moss Rock Preserve, a CANYON 349-acre parcel owned by Hoover. This Birmingham- NATURE area oasis provides moderate to tough hikes alongside PRESERVE streams punctuated by boulders. It also features a MOSS ROCK PRESERVE variant of the Little River Canyon Sandstone Glade, a fragile ecosystem where stunted wildflowers, grasses and trees grow out of flat, pavement-like rocks. In northwest Alabama, conservationists Jim and Faye Lacefield have struck a balance between protecting their private lands and opening them to the public. Their Cane Creek Canyon Nature Preserve is held in a conservation easement and boasts 15 miles of trails MAGNOLIA TRAIL available Fridays–Sundays at no charge. The central 7-mile trail follows Cane Creek past rock shelters, waterfalls, scenic overlooks and wildflowers. HUGH S. BRANYON BACKCOUNTRY TRAIL One of Alabama’s most popular and pretty hikes doubles as one of its most difficult. The Walls of Jericho Trail, located nearTennessee, takes you out and back for a total of 6.6 miles. Along the way, observe exposed limestone, sinkholes and a cave. The first half of the trail descends 1,000 feet; be prepared for the steep incline on the return. Give yourself plenty of time.

Clockwise from top left: Gulf Shores & Orange Beach’s Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail, Walls of Jericho Trail in Estillfork, Chewacla State insider tip Park in Auburn

JOSHUA FUNDERBURK PARK MANAGER, CHEWACLA STATE PARK

“The best time to visit is during the little bit of spring and fall we get, usually around March for spring and then between October and November for fall. It varies from year to year. My favorite hike is the Moun- tain Laurel Trail that leads to our manmade waterfall. If you catch it just right in spring, you can time your hike when the mountain laurels bloom. They’re gorgeous white blossoms with red streaks. I can make it down there in three- tenths of a mile, or you can make it a 5-mile walk just because our trails have so many options and spurs.” Clockwise from bottom left: ATD/Chris Granger (2), Ken Gables Photography (2), Ken Granger left: ATD/Chris bottom from Clockwise

24 | 2020 Alabama Vacation Guide & Calendar www.alabama.travel | 25 BY AMITY MOORE JOYCE What Lies Beneath From opposite left: Goliath stands tall at Cathedral Caverns near Grant, lights Opportunities for all levels of subterranean exploration exist in illuminate the interesting features of DeSoto Caverns near Birmingham, guided the state that the National Speleological Society calls home. tours lead through narrow at Rickwood Caverns near Warrior

With more than 4,200 caves in Alabama, it is no wonder die-hard spelunkers and casual potholers enjoy ducking underground here. insider tip The greatest variety—from commercial caves to hidden ones that require permission—is found in the ISRAEL PARTRIDGE OWNER, TRUE ADVENTURE state’s northeast corner. This karst-rich intersection SPORTS, FORT PAYNE of Tennessee, Alabama and Georgia (TAG) boasts and , unexpected chambers, “Show caves have lights and an ecosystem that supports blind, pigmentless and pathways, and you creatures. Get acquainted with this other world at can enter and exit in the Cathedral Caverns inside the eponymous state park same clothes you started near Grant; Rickwood Caverns, also inside a state in. On wild cave tours, you park; or DeSoto Caverns near Birmingham. get a little dirty. These are for people wanting to go Rangers offer guided tours at Cathedral Caverns, past a barrier to see things sharing stories of how Native Americans used the up close and wildlife in their cave 8,000 years ago, how it was privately owned element. On exploration as Bats Cave from 1955 to 1974, and how its unique trips, folks feel like they’re features—the Big Room, Goliath and Mystery River— pioneers, exploring make it worthy of its designation as a National uncharted territory and Natural Landmark. The paved, twisting walkway new passageways.” — MORE CAVES —

RUSSELL CAVE: WALK TO THE travels about a mile, passing named formations, plus a CAVE ENTRANCE RUSSELL CAVE stalagmite forest and an improbable stalagmite that is OF THIS NATIONAL 35 feet tall but only 3 inches in diameter. MONUMENT NEAR SAUTA BRIDGEPORT. CAVE NEVERSINK CAVE Access to Rickwood Caverns, now part of the state NEVERSINK CAVE: CATHEDRAL CAVERNS park near Warrior, requires a guide, which is ideal RAPPEL 100 FEET because so many points of interest lie within this living DOWN INTO THIS JACKSON COUNTY cave. The curiosities extend beyond the Frozen Castle TO SEE ITS and the Bridal Column formations to include blind cave WATERFALLS AND fish, bats and salamanders, so having a knowledgeable FERN-LINED WALLS eye proves valuable. The 1-mile-long tour lasts about an UP CLOSE. hour and includes an underground lake. SAUTA CAVE: THIS CAVE OUTSIDE Native American history is on display at DeSoto OF SCOTTSBORO PRESENTS AMAZING RICKWOOD Caverns. Before they were a privately owned attrac- CAVERNS tion, the caverns were used from 1000 BC to AD 1000 WILDLIFE-VIEWING WHEN 200,000 TO as a burial site. The walls document a stay in 1723 by 400,000 GRAY BATS I.W. Wright, an Indian trader who carved his name into EMERGE EVERY the limestone walls. In the 1920s, the cave served as EVENING DURING DESOTO JUNE, JULY AND CAVERNS a speakeasy. The bullet holes from that bygone era

All images: ATD/Chris Granger All images: ATD/Chris generate as much interest today as the onyx columns, AUGUST. drapery formations and abundant .

26 | 2020 Alabama Vacation Guide & Calendar www.alabama.travel | 27 PISGAH GORGE FALLS

LOST SINK HIGH FALLS FALLS DESOTO FALLS YELLOW DISMALS CREEK FALLS CANYON LITTLE RIVER NOCCALULA FALLS FALLS

DEVIL’S DEN FALLS Admire the Whether you prefer hiking to the pool of a natural cascade or driving nearly to the rim of one, waterfall-related adventures abound in Alabama.

View trickles to torrents—and enjoy unique experiences along the way—among BY AMITY MOORE JOYCE the more than 1,000 spots where fresh water PLUNGEPLUNGE pours over stony ledges. Build your own trail from a few of these favorites that follow, or hit every one for a multiday vacation filled with Mother Nature’s liquid art. Among the state’s most popular and easily visible falls, Noccalula Falls in Gadsden flows within Noccalula Falls Park. The 90-foot-high waterfall can be reached from the parking lot without paying a fee by walking about 50 yards to the overlook. For a more vigorous and up-close experience, walk the 1.7-mile Black Creek Trail to see the falls from below. OF NOTE: Native American lore tells the story of a maiden, Noccalula, whose chieftain father

Clockwise from opposite: Fort Payne’s Little River Falls flows even during a dry spell, autumn comes to High Falls near Grove Oak, DeSoto Falls near Fort Payne presents multiple Clockwise from left: Shutterstock, Ken Gables Photography (2) Gables Photography Ken left: Shutterstock, from Clockwise drops when seen from the right angle

— NOCCALULA FALLS LITTLE RIVER DESOTO FALLS: YELLOW CREEK LOST SINK FALLS: PARK: MINIATURE FALLS: INSIDE CAN BE PAIRED FALLS: ACCESSED A DROP INTO A DETAILS TRAIN, PETTING LITTLE RIVER WITH LITTLE BY CANOE VIA SINKHOLE INSIDE ZOO & PIONEER CANYON NATIONAL RIVER FALLS FOR WEISS LAKE OR KEEL MOUNTAIN — VILLAGE PRESERVE A DAY TRIP YELLOW CREEK PRESERVE

28 | 2020 Alabama Vacation Guide & Calendar www.alabama.travel | 29 Rainbow Falls, Phantom Falls & Secret Falls insider tip Located at Dismals Canyon, these three waterfalls can be LANE LEOPARD seen while hiking a 1.5-mile PHOTOGRAPHER, LANE trail on the canyon floor. LEOPARD PHOTOGRAPHY OF NOTE: Evidence of human history from Paleo to Chickasaw “Try to visit waterfalls and Cherokee tribes abounds from November to here. Marvel at the amazing April… Each year is a biological diversity as well. little different depending on our rainfall, but after Pisgah Gorge a good rain event, the Falls waterfalls will be the Multiple waterfalls make up most visually appealing. these falls that are accessed I prefer a cloudy day via a roughly 1.5-mile round-trip for my waterfall photography as it gives hike. Three different overlooks it a more dramatic provide excellent views. and moody look.” OF NOTE: Waterfalls are nearly 100 feet tall.

Left to right: Veils of water pouring from Turkey Foot Falls, jumping in the pool at the base of Devil’s Den history. Look for where Native Beyond the wilderness, more Falls, going behind the OTHERS Americans took shelter and waterfalls plummet. Check out curtain at Noccalula Falls, the gentle slope AROUND ground corn and nuts. these two that have also gained of Kinlock Falls favor for their swimming holes. THE Caney Creek STATE Falls gets a lot of foot traffic, Devil’s Den Falls North Alabama holds the state’s wealth of in part because many Alabamians Located inside Cheaha State Park, waterfalls, but if you look after heavy rains, you Sipsey Wilderness say it is one of the state’s most this picturesque curtain of water Part of Bankhead National Forest, beautiful waterfalls and worth curls around a large, deep pool, can find a plunge to admire in most every region. this wild area comprises 25,000 the 3-mile round-trip hike. which makes it a favorite for acres and is known as the Land of Depending on rainfall, the falls kids. The access hike, part of the 1,000 Waterfalls. Check out three could hold two curtains of water. Chinnabee Silent Trail, is about had promised her to someone she did not love. She loved another, and to of its most popular ones: Turkey OF NOTE: The swimming hole at six-tenths of a mile. avoid the arranged marriage, she jumped from the falls to her death. Foot Falls, Caney Creek Falls and the bottom is a favorite feature. Locals love Little River Falls in Fort Payne. These accessible, year-round Kinlock Falls. High Falls cataracts drop 45 feet and form a nice pool at the bottom perfect for Kinlock Falls, more Thirty-five feet tall and at swimming when the flow is slow. Enjoy the view from the top, or follow the Turkey Foot Falls horizontal than vertical, tumbles times 300 feet wide, this veil boardwalk to another trail to reach the lower river’s edge. flows near the Sipsey River Picnic gently down its rocky foundation, inside High Falls Park spills OF NOTE: Little River Falls marks the start of the Little River Canyon Grounds. An easy, short hike making it popular for rock sliding year-round and passes through atop Lookout Mountain. makes the cascade accessible to and tubing. Access it via an easy, a natural bridge. Although DeSoto Falls inside DeSoto State Park also pours from Lookout Mountain. all levels of outdoor enthusiasts. family-friendly .3-mile hike. wading is allowed, swimmers Walk a few hundred yards from the upper parking lot to a railed platform to OF NOTE: Besides being easy OF NOTE: If you plan to rock slide, are encouraged to be cautious see the A.A. Miller Dam and upper falls. Stairs lead to a separate view of the to access, this waterfall carries wear appropriate water shoes of the rough waters. Cliff lower, or main, waterfall, impressive at 107 feet tall. Native American and pioneer and durable shorts. jumping is not advised. OF NOTE: DeSoto Falls was named after Spain’s Hernando de Soto, who Lane Leopard Granger, (2), ATD/Chris Gables Photography Ken right: to Left explored what is now present-day Alabama during the 16th century.

www.alabama.travel | 31

30 | 2020 Alabama Vacation Guide & Calendar Maplesville City Park offers an Living River to see Ruby-throated 5 more escape into woodlands filled Hummingbirds. Come spring, “flock” with birds. head to the Red-cockaded Find Feathered Woodpecker colony within the spots Piney Woods Oakmulgee Division of Talladega Gear up for water in these National Forest.

BY AMITY MOORE JOYCE Appalachian five counties of southwestern Friends Highlands Alabama. Here, you might Wiregrass Birdwatchers appreciate the paddle the Sepulga River Canoe If you cannot hit all 21 sites Eight birding trails from the mountains to the coast forested hills, lush pastures and Trail to hear Prothonotary in southeastern Alabama, ensure birders find both plentiful and rare species to riparian zones that support the Warblers, observe White Ibis visit these three: Conecuh check off their lists. diverse variety of birds found or see what’s soaring above National Forest harbors hundreds among this trail’s 38 sites. Claiborne Lake Dam. of Bachman’s Sparrows in its pine forests; secreted Crenshaw spying some of the 430-plus With 280 public access points, Piedmont West Alabama County Public Lake boasts bird species that have been documented in Alabama is a cinch. The variety of Plateau Among the lakes, forests and pinewoods, mature fields and ecosystems appeals to both resident and migratory birds, and likewise gives you With Mount Cheaha, the rivers of this region also resides a lake that attracts Northern multiple habitats in which to point your binoculars. More than 50 sites, including state’s highest point, and the University of Alabama Bobwhites, Brown-headed 180,000 acres within Bankhead National Forest, constitute the North Alabama Lake Martin, the state’s largest Arboretum, which holds a Nuthatches and Great Blue . Watch for Cerulean Warblers, Pileated Woodpeckers, Sandhill Cranes Birding Trail lake, birdwatchers find a lot of reputation as the single best Herons; and Eufaula National and surprisingly large roosts of Bald Eagles in this region. The state’s rural farm varied terrain to explore. Even location in Tuscaloosa for Wildlife Refuge offers arguably areas welcome Northern Parulas and Yellow-throated Warblers as well as tanagers, walking a paved path through songbirds. In Bibb County, visit the best birding in the state. vireos and cuckoos. Follow the Black Belt Birding Trail to see them and hear their songs. Along the Gulf Coast, six driving loops in Baldwin and Mobile counties make up more than 200 miles of the Coastal Birding Trail. This is the place to see Brown Pelicans, rails, herons, gulls and egrets.

CONNECT: ALABAMABIRDINGTRAILS.COM | BIRMINGHAMAUDUBON.ORG AOSBIRDS.ORG | ALABAMA BIRDING TRAILS

NORTH ALABAMA EVENTS

APPALACHIAN Easy Ways to HIGHLANDS Start Birding

FESTIVAL OF PIEDMONT THE CRANES PLATEAU Decatur fws.gov/refuge/ WEST ALABAMA wheeler/Festival_ of_the_Cranes_at_ Wheeler.html BLACK BELT GREAT BACKYARD BIRD COUNT PINEY WOODS WIREGRASS Birmingham gbbc.birdcount.org

COASTAL BIRDFEST COASTAL Baldwin and BIRDING TRAIL Mobile counties weeksbay.org/events/ Left to right: Sandhill Crane at Wheeler National alabama-coastal- Wildlife Refuge (NWR); Audubon Bird birdfest Sanctuary on Coastal Birding Trail; birding on the Yoholo Micco Trail, which is part of the Wiregrass Birding Trail; mallards on the wing at Wheeler NWR Left to right: courtesy of Wheeler NWR, ATD/Chris Granger (2), courtesy of Wheeler NWR of Wheeler (2), courtesy Granger NWR, ATD/Chris of Wheeler courtesy right: to Left

32 | 2020 Alabama Vacation Guide & Calendar www.alabama.travel | 33 Dipping In BY KIM NIX The Alabama Scenic River Trail presents all kinds of water for all kinds of paddlers. Which one is for you?

With bountiful water resources, including 18 river systems that result in thousands of miles of navigable waterways, Alabama boasts ever-expanding organized paddle trails, many linked to the Alabama Scenic River Trail (ASRT). This trail, once a 650-mile historic trade route from Cedar Bluff, Alabama, near the Georgia state line, to Fort Morgan, Alabama, at the Gulf of Mexico, has swelled beyond its core route to more than 5,300 miles of waterways with access, camping and signage. Whether you enjoy canoeing, kayaking, rafting or stand-up paddling— and no matter your skill level—there’s an Alabama river calling to you. Check out which sections of the ASRT you might want to add to your paddling bucket list.

For paddlers seeking an adrenaline rush, the Little River in northeast Alabama offers premier whitewater kayaking on Class III-V waters. With sections named Suicide and Avalanche, the waters below Little River Falls are for experienced paddlers only. Above Little River Falls, the water is a little tamer but still not for Left to right: beginners. Unlike many rivers, paddling here is best in winter and early spring, Off the Beaten Path Alabama guided trip near Auburn, rafting and kayaking in Phenix City CONNECT: ALABAMASCENICRIVERTRAIL.COM | ALABAMACANOETRAILS.COM ALABAMARIVERS.ORG/RECREATION-ON-ALABAMAS-RIVERS | CAHABARIVERSOCIETY.ORG

Once a 650-mile historic trade route, the Alabama Scenic River Trail has swelled beyond its core route insider tip to more than 5,300 miles of waterways. Paddlers cannot help but pick a path and start exploring. FRED COUCH, JR. FOUNDER, OPERATIONS MANAGER which is the rainy season. Wetsuits are recommended. The best put-in ALABAMA SCENIC above the falls is near the bridge on Highway 35. For the lower portion, RIVER TRAIL begin by going over Little River Falls—popular with many experienced kayakers—or put in a few hundred yards downstream. “My paddling tips on these and all waterways Sougahatchee Creek near Auburn offers Class I-II waters suitable for are basically two: kayaking and canoeing. With its proximity to Auburn University, students a) Always wear your often take advantage of this scenic waterway with numerous rapids, which life jacket and are largely rainfall dependent. It’s not a run you can count on in the drier b) Share your plans summer months except within 36 to 48 hours of a thunderstorm. A popular with someone back home. route is to put in off Highway 188 and take out 3 miles downstream at what is known locally as the Steel Bridge. “Those two [tips] will forever be your best Famous in pop country songs but also as a liquid boundary between safety precautions southeast Alabama and Georgia for 160 miles, the Chattahoochee River to enjoy the beauty hugs both Phenix City, Alabama, and Columbus, Georgia, at a stretch that has and challenges of become a whitewater mecca. Removing a series of dams created the longest our extensive urban rafting opportunity in the world at 2.5 miles. Whitewater kayaking, waterways.” rafting, tubing and stand-up paddling all can be done on these Class I-V waters. Believe it or not, you also can river surf on the Chattahoochee. Inset: courtesy of Fred Couch Jr., all others: ATD/Chris Granger ATD/Chris all others: Jr., Couch of Fred courtesy Inset:

34 | 2020 Alabama Vacation Guide & Calendar www.alabama.travel | 35 You won’t find rapids on the mild waters of the Bartram Canoe Trail, but you will find abundant wildlife, such as diving birds, sunning alligators and stealthy bobcats.

Because of the dam-controlled daily release, the water level and speed of the Chattahoochee River changes. Lower water levels offer a gentler trip, while higher waters promise faster water and larger rapids. Observers can catch all the action from the Phenix City riverwalk, dotted with restaurants and shops.

The 13-mile Autauga Creek Canoe Trail, designated a National Recreational Trail, begins at Bridge Creek on County Road 10 near Prattville and ends when it flows into the Alabama River in Montgomery. Several points along the way provide in and out access to this relatively calm waterway that suits beginning paddlers; portions are good for tubing as well. The main launch tucks behind City Hall, then travels down 4 miles of fun, hairpin turns to Canoe Trail Park. Here, most paddlers exit, in part because of the accessible parking, restrooms and picnic tables.

The Bartram Canoe Trail gets its name from naturalist William Bartram, who explored Alabama in the mid-1770s. You won’t find rapids on these mild waters, but you will find abundant wildlife, such as birds, raccoons and alligators, and bald The 17.9-mile Perdido River Hiking Trail

Clockwise from top right: Paddling near Little River Canyon with True Adventure Sports, camping runs roughly parallel to the river. and canoeing the Perdido River Canoe Trail, an overnight shelter accessible only by kayak on the It’s rated easy to moderate with Mobile-Tensaw Delta, exploring the Gulf Coast with WildNative Tours numerous views of and access to the river. Hikers also are allowed to reserve the shelters for overnight visits. LITTLE RIVER details

True Adventure Sports Classes, guided trips and kayak and canoe rentals. trueadventuresports.com SOUGAHATCHEE CREEK AUTAUGA CANOE TRAIL Off the Beaten Path cypress trees hanging with Spanish moss. The canoe trail, managed by the CHATTAHOOCHEE RIVER Alabama Tube, kayak and Alabama State Lands Division, meanders through the Mobile-Tensaw Delta canoe rentals, plus guiding and consists of an upper and a lower system. Combined, the systems cover and shuttle services. Granger ATD/Chris all others: Billy Pope, right: Far offthebeatenpathalabama1.com more than 170 water miles. Paddlers can make day trips or plan multiday trips. Land-based campsites, elevated shelters and floating platforms are Adventures Perdido River available for overnights on the trail. The land-based, first-come, first-served BARTRAM Tube, kayak and canoe CANOE TRAIL sites are free. Reservations and a fee are required for the covered shelters rentals, plus shuttle service. and floating platforms, which can accommodate up to eight people. adventuresperdidoriver.com Another canoe-centric route, also managed by the Alabama State Lands PERDIDO WildNative Tours Guided RIVER tours, and canoe and kayak Division, the Perdido River Canoe Trail runs roughly 19 miles along the CANOE rentals. wildnativetours.com TRAIL border between Alabama and Florida on the east side of Baldwin County. The calm water of the Perdido looks like tea, the result of an organic Whitewater Express compound released by decaying plants called tannin. Commonly called Whitewater kayak and stand-up paddleboard (SUP) “blackwater,” the river’s surface reflects like a mirror. Access the trail from lessons; kayak, SUP and tube two launch sites and one boat ramp. Paddlers may pay to stay overnight rentals; and guided rafting along the river at one of six reservable camping shelters or at no cost by trips. whitewaterexpress.com pitching a tent on one of the sandbars located in front of the shelters.

36 | 2020 Alabama Vacation Guide & Calendar www.alabama.travel | 37 Left to Right: Paddling near Little River Canyon. Coosa River Whitewater Festival. Kayaking the Mobile Delta.

Go Batty in Alabama UnPhiltered Kayaking www.unphilteredkayaking.com Get on the water with these outfitters View Hambrick Cave in Alabama with a guide to see 50,0000 bats emerge at dusk as they hunt for insects. This real-life nature show brings guests to the mouth of the cave where they sit mere feet away as bats sweep and swoop overhead. Tours available Friday through Sunday nights. All-Inclusive Guided Kayak Excursions One World Adventure Dolphin and Wildlife Kayak Experience www.oneworldadventure.org Wild Native Tours Experience some of the most breathtaking scenery in Northeast Alabama. Mountains, canyons, waterfalls and wildlife are the www.wildnativetours.com backdrop for amazing day-long kayaking adventures. Trips are all-inclusive, with professional guides, equipment, kayaks, pad- The Dolphins and Wildlife Kayak Experiences immerses you in a coastal wilderness and one of the prettiest classrooms on earth. dles and PFDs. All trips are perfect for all ages, and are conveniently located within two hours of Chattanooga, Atlanta, Nash- Watch for and learn about Gulf Shores’ Bottlenose Dolphins from the intimate, unobtrusive, and non-threatening vantage point ville, Huntsville and Birmingham. of a kayak. Like all wide animals these dolphins can be elusive, and you don’t always see them, but when you do there is noth-

ing like the thrill near these magnificent creatures. No worries in the Alabama wilderness Prattville Paddlesports Whitewater in the American South www.prattvillepaddlesports.com Coosa River Adventures From the beautiful white sand beaches of the Alabama Gulf Coast to the majestic canyons and waterfalls of the Southern Appa- www.coosariveradventures.com lachian Mountains in North Alabama, Prattville Paddlesports offers all-inclusive outdoor adventure served with Southern Hospi- Catch a ride on Alabama’s famed Moccasin Gap during a fun down a section of the Coosa River in Alabama. This spot is a tality. Design a custom, all-inclusive trip for your group. Prattville Paddlesports offers one-to-three-day trips, which include gear favorite for local paddlers, offering a splash of whitewater on the core section of the Alabama Scenic River Trail. Tours available and are designed for first-timers or advanced paddlers. upon request.

Escape Civilization and Experience Nature by Kayak A wild look at wildlife Riverside Fly Shop Sunshine Canoes www.riversideflyshop.com www.sunshinecanoerentals.com Riverside Fly Shop offers self-guided river tours atop the crystal-clear waters of the Sipsey River. Rent one of the exceptional- Tour one of the largest and most biologically diverse freshwater estuaries in the United State with a local tour guide. One the ly stable NuCanoes for a single or tandem trip or bring your own kayak or paddleboard and launch into the cool waters of the Mobile-Tensaw Delta in Alabama, you will encounter sweeping views that include tall grasses, large birds and the occasional Sipsey Fork of the Warrior River. Not into paddling yourself? Take a guided trip in a drift boat. alligator. You will see historic sites, including an Indian mount and a Civil War battle ground.

Ecotourism at its best Evening Lake Tour Terrapin Outdoor Center True Adventure Sports www.canoeshop.net www.trueadventuresports.com Take a three-to-five hour guided tour of Terrapin Creek in Northeast Alabama, one of the most ecologically diverse regions of Come explore the banks of Weiss Lake in a guided twilight canoe or kayak tour. See 200-foot cliffs converge at the pristine the . A float down this stream offers glimpse of a wide range of wildlife and a look at local color. Yellow Creek Falls and take a dep into the clean, clear waters of Weiss Lake. No prior experience needed. Boat rental is included. OUTDOOR OUTDOOR Get outside and take advantage of places to play on public lands—and public waters.

So, here’s the thing. You don’t have to head west to find epic ways to enjoy nature, to prove your mettle in the outdoors, to refresh and commune with Ma Nature. They’re all right here in Alabama. The state boasts challenging whitewater to paddle, gnarly rock faces to climb, gamboling trails to hike or bike, and enviable hunting. Not to mention the amazing fishing, abundant and breadth of wildlife watching. Then there are the lakes and the Gulf of Mexico, each ripe with opportunities for powerboating and scuba diving. Finally, with terrain that spans from mountainous to maritime, the Yellowhammer State’s places to camp, such as Gulf State Park’s Outpost (below), never feel the same. For a more complete education in Alabama’s outdoor offerings, visit outdooralabama.com.

Feel

This page: ATD/Chris Granger page: ATD/Chris This Hear

158 | 2020 Alabama Vacation Guide & Calendar www.alabama.travel | 159 OUTDOOR Reel Fun short, but it’s exciting! Variety is the spice of outdoor life Fishing for smallmouth, large- The fish can weigh up to and activities in Alabama. mouth, striper and tide bass 45 pounds, but most caught is so good here that 13 lakes o Orange Beach—site of a Recreation form the Alabama Bass healthy fishery—are about Trail. Eufaula proudly touts eight pounds. If snagged in its lake’s fishery and is the the o-season, then the fish srael Partridge, owner of Rad Rock Climbing must be released. True Adventure Sports Like Partridge mentioned, self-proclaimed Big Bass Capital of the World. It even in Fort Payne, knows Alabama does not get a lot of Pleasurable Boating I climbing love, but it should. has a 10-foot-tall bass statue Whether pulling a water skier, Alabama’s natural beauty named Manny to remind and variety surprises visitors. All styles of rock climbing anchoring by a swimming anglers of the area’s excellent hole or just cruising, boating He calls it the state’s “wow are represented here. Trad climbers visit Jamestown fishing and to remember is popular across the state. factor.” When it comes to the for its excellent sandstone legendary fishing lure Join residents from Birming- outdoors, he says, “Alabama GRAB lines. It is not developed like designer Tom Mann. Saltwater ham and Montgomery who is way undersold… I guess Leesburg’s Cherokee Rock fishing, too, gets a lot of congregate on Lake Martin, it being undersold makes Village, aka Sand Rock, which attention, particularly for red particularly near Chimney BY AMITY MOORE JOYCE it the best because you can oers more than double the snapper. The season may be Rock, where cli jumping still explore the mountains routes. Plus, sport climbs and and caves without crowds.” bouldering are part of its mix. He adds that Alabama ties The place with more routes with Utah for some of the than anywhere, however, is BAG hardest rock-climbing routes also part of the Triple Crown in the country. With so many Bouldering Series: Horse Pens opportunities to explore, 40 in Steele. Climbers have their choice of more than 290 where should outdoorsy bouldering problems here. A people start? It all depends close second for bouldering on what you already love or lies near Birmingham in Hoover. what you’ve always wanted Among the beautiful trees to try. So go ahead, grab your and hiking trails of Moss Rock gear and discover the great Preserve, bouldering fans find Southern outdoors. nearly 50 dierent routes.

is a favorite activity. Lake Guntersville attracts its share of boaters, too. Here, the vibe is calm and family friendly.

Wildlife Watching While recreating, you might encounter native creatures. All images: ATD/Chris Granger All images: ATD/Chris Often, the most exciting to see are the sunning alligators or the darting swallow-tailed kites, which fly up to 60 mph to snap an insect lunch. Area national wildlife refuges (NWRs) are excellent spots to see animals. Bon Secour NWR is known for migrating song- birds, sea turtles and the endangered beach mouse. Wheeler NWR attracts birds, Left to right: Cherokee Rock but it also harbors large Village in Leesburg, populations of feral hogs powerboating and deer. Fern Cave NWR on Lake Eufaula, houses the largest wintering snapper fishing on Dauphin Island colony of gray bats in the United States.

160 | 2020 Alabama Vacation Guide & Calendar www.alabama.travel | 161 3 72 72 Mountain Biking Mojo Florence Huntsville OUTDOOR 4 Trails for fat-tire fans cut 2 Scottsboro 565 STATE PARKS, through many public lands. Decatur 6 2 One of the longest, Cold- 3 1 1 RECREATION TRAILS water Mountain Bike Trail 231 5 Ft. Payne 43 1 65 runs about 35 miles outside Guntersville 59 & NATIONAL FORESTS Anniston. With gentle rides Hamilton Cullman 4 Double Springs outdooralabama.com 5 and a tough black diamond, Gadsden the area appeals to mountain 22 Jasper 7 6 bikers of every ability. STATE PARKS 4 Similarly, riders look to Oak Anniston HISTORICAL STATE PARKS Mountain State Park in Birmingham 8 Pelham for singletrack (and 7 Talladega NATIONAL FORESTS a bit of doubletrack) that is Hoover 9 459 open to all levels. Recently, 5 59 24 10 20 BIRDING TRAILS The Red Trail gained a few Tuscaloosa 8 280 more miles. As mountain Aliceville APPALACHIAN HIGHLANDS From top: Alexander City biking’s popularity grows, 23 From the forested hills of the ridge-and- Biking on 3 valley region to the rich pastures and Clanton many areas are lengthening , 11 farmlands of its river-carved valleys, the 85 their oƒ erings. Philip Darden, accommodations for Opelika trail provides a wide diversity of habitats 65 Auburn disabled hunting 9 manager of James Bros Bikes 18 for birds, including the endangered red- Demopolis 10 6 14 cockaded woodpecker. in Opelika, told Alabama 80 Prattville Phenix News Center, “When it comes 15 Selma Tuskegee City BLACK BELT Spanish rum runner, invites to mountain biking, Alabama Montgomery Thirty-two sites stretch along a narrow is a hidden gem.” snorkelers and beginner 11 19 swath of 11 counties across the south- divers because of its easy central part of Alabama’s rural farm country beach access and 15- to 25- DON’T MISS Camden 17 all the way from Georgia to Mississippi. Beneath the Stars Thomasville Eufaula foot depth. More experienced Greenville 12 Most state parks oƒ er tent Troy COASTAL divers will fi nd LuLu and the Paddling Pleasure camping; some oƒ er modern 12 13 Six birding loops in Baldwin and Mobile recently sunk Fairfi eld New From North Alabama to the Gulf Coast, dozens of waterways sites ideal for RVs. Bathhouses Monroeville counties total more than 200 miles. Each invite you to explore. Kayakers can playboat in the rivers that Jackson 231 are available, so you don’t Venture more of a challenge. loop covers different ecological regions flow off the Appalachian Range while stand-up paddleboarders Evergreen representative of the northern Gulf Coast have to completely rough and enables birders to experience different find the state’s lakes good spots to practice. Canoeists find Enterprise it. Camping shelters in the A Hunting We Will Go 16 assemblages of bird species within 65 Dothan What do you get when you year-round boating along the coast, where they launch into each region. Mobile-Tensaw Delta draw 43 take more than 1.3 million estuarine marsh, cypress-tupelo swamp and bottomland Atmore 2 paddlers, and cabins prove NORTH ALABAMA attractive in Gulf and DeSoto acres of public hunting land, hardwood ecosystems. Outfitters such as True Adventure Bay Minette Landscapes in the region range from tupelo state parks. And if you do liberal seasons and large Sports often rent equipment while also offering guided trips. Mobile 22 swamps and blazing fields of wildflowers want to rough it, backcountry bag limits? Yep, hunting in Pages 34–37 provide more details about where to dip a paddle. 13 to towering forests of oak and hickory and sites dot Oak Mountain Alabama. Bird hunters rave 21 vast sheets of open water replete with 10 WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREAS about the bobwhite quail Fairhope loafing waterfowl. State Park. Hiking Heaven 59 334-242-3469 and waterfowl. Other hunters Morning, noon and night, you can hike and come across NATIONAL FOREST RECREATIONAL AREAS PIEDMONT PLATEAU 20 Underwater Rapture come for the white-tailed something interesting in Alabama. Discover a sunrise that 6 Orange Beach 334-832-4470 Thirty-four sites dot the land from Thanks to several artifi cial deer and feral hogs. The state Gulf Shores Alabama’s highest mountain to the shores will make the start of a new day a celebration from most of Lake Martin, the state’s first “Treasured reefs, the Gulf Coast teems supports several programs any east-facing spot on a beach trail or the top of a peak. Alabama Lake.” including Becoming an BASS TRAIL fishalabama.org with fi sh and plants of interest Pause to picnic and appreciate the riverside views on trails to divers and snorkelers. The Outdoors Woman and 1—LAKE GUNTERSVILLE 5—LEWIS SMITH LAKE 9—LAKE MARTIN 13—MOBILE- PINEY WOODS in the south and central regions. You can find open spaces, Whiskey, the hull of a sunken seasons for disabled hunters. 2—WHEELER LAKE 6—NEELY HENRY LAKE 10—LAKE JORDAN TENSAW Many of the 22 sites in Washington, Clarke, where the sun warms you the entire way, or shady paths that 3—PICKWICK LAKE 7—LOGAN MARTIN LAKE 11—ALABAMA RIVER RIVER DELTA Monroe, Conecuh and Escambia counties in meander through forests. Paved or dirt, the hiking trails here 4—WEISS LAKE 8—LAY LAKE 12—LAKE EUFAULA southwest Alabama offer the opportunity to view birds by boat. are numerous and worth lacing up your boots. See page 22 to learn more about stepping out. NATIONAL FORESTS WEST ALABAMA With 28 sites in a nine-county region in FOREST CITY Map Location SITES PHONE Underground Excitement West Alabama, you’ll find lakes, deep BANKHEAD Double Springs 1 Brushy Lake, Clear Lake, Corinth & Houston Recreation 205-489-5111 forests and free-flowing rivers, all filled with According to the Huntsville-based National Speleological Areas; Sipsey River National Wild and Scenic River; a variety of birds. Society, Alabama harbors more than 4,200 known caves. Sipsey River Picnic Area and Trailhead Most are wild and located on private land, thus not available CONECUH Andalusia 2 Blue Lake & Open Pond Recreation Areas; Conecuh Trail 334-222-2555 WIREGRASS TALLADEGA Brent 3 Payne Lake Recreation Area 205-926-9765 to the public. Nevertheless, several spots are open to viewing This 10-county region is nestled in the (Oakmulgee) southeastern part of Alabama and features this amazing underground wilderness. Turn to page 26 to TALLADEGA Heflin 4 Coleman Lake & Pine Glen Recreation Areas; Pinhoti 256-463-2272 20 sites located in national forests, state check out where to go. (Shoal Creek) National Recreation Trail; Sweetwater Lake parks and other public lands. TALLADEGA Talladega 5 , Lake Chinnabee, Pinhoti National 256-362-2909 (Talladega) Recreation Trail For more birding information and locations, TUSKEGEE Tuskegee 6 Bartram National Recreation Trail & Taska Recreation Area 334-727-2652 visit alabamabirdingtrails.com. llustration by Steven Stankiewicz Steven by i llustration of Billy Pope; courtesy Granger, ATD/Chris bottom: to Top

162 | 2020 Alabama Vacation Guide & Calendar www.alabama.travel | 163 Call 800-ALA-PARK for more information or to make reservations. You also can find us at our website: STATE PARKS alapark.com or e-mail: [email protected]. Refer to page 163 for map locations. •: AVAILABLE * : RESORT PARKS

OUTDOOR Some facilities are seasonal. Pets are allowed in some state park lodging cabins. MasterCard, VISA and American Express are accepted in some park facilities. All parks offer geocaching. All state parks feature comfort stations and picnic areas. Acres Primitive Camping Modern Campsites Camp Store Internet Wireless Family Cabins Cottages (units) Hotel (units) Convention/ Meeting Rooms Group Lodge Group Pavilions Refreshments Dog-friendly Cabins Restaurant Gift Shop Marina Boating Swimming Fishing Golf Course (holes) Tennis Trails Nature Programs Play Area

NORTH BUCK’S POCKET 1 393 CR 174, Grove Oak, 35975, 800-252-7275; 2 mi. N of 2000 24 Grove Oak ••• •

CATHEDRAL CAVERNS 493 12 2 637 Cave Rd., Woodville, 35769, 256-728-8193 • •• • ••• DESOTO 7104 DeSoto Pkwy. NE, Fort Payne, 35967, 256-845-5380; 3502 94 22 25 3 Resort Inn: 1299 Blalock Dr. NE, 800-568-8840/256-845- • •• • ••••• ••• ••• 5380; Campground: 256-845-5075; 8 mi. NE of Fort Payne JOE WHEELER * Park Office: 4403 McLean Dr., Rogersville, 35652, 256-247- 4 5466; Resort Lodge and Convention Center: 4401 McLean Dr., 2550 116 38 75 18 Rogersville, 35652, 800-544-5639/256-247-5461; Camp- • •• ••••••••••• •• • ground: 256-247-1184; Elk River Group Lodge: 256-247-5466 LAKE GUNTERSVILLE * Park Office: 1157 Lodge Dr., Guntersville, 35976; Office: 256- 5 571-5444; Campground: 256-571-5455; Lodge: 1155 Lodge Dr., 5909 364 35 112 18 Box 232, Guntersville, 35976, 800-548-4553/256-571-5440; • •• • ••••••••• •••• 6 mi. NE of Guntersville, off Hwy. 227 MONTE SANO 6 5105 Nolen Ave., Huntsville, 35801, 256-534-3757; Group 2140 89 14 Lodge: 256-534-3757; located within Huntsville city limits • •• •• •• • •• RICKWOOD CAVERNS 7 370 Rickwood Park Rd., Warrior, 35180, 205-647-9692; 380 13 4 mi. off I-65 at Exit 284 • • •• • • •••

CENTRAL CHEAHA Campground: 19644 AL Hwy. 281, Delta, 36258; Park: 2799 73 16 30 8 256-488-5111; Lodge: AL Hwy. 281, 2141 Bunker Loop, 800- • •• ••••••• ••• ••• 846-2654/256-488-5115; 12 mi. S of I-20 on AL Hwy. 281 LAKE LURLEEN 9 13226 Lake Lurleen Rd., Coker, 35452, 205-339-1558; 12 mi. 1625 91 NW of Tuscaloosa • • • •• ••• ••• OAK MOUNTAIN 200 Terrace Dr., Pelham, 35124; Park Office: 205-620-2520; 9940 150 10 18 10 Info Center: 205-620-2524; Campground: 205-620-2527; • •• • ••••• ••• ••• 15 mi. S of Birmingham WIND CREEK 4325 AL Hwy. 128, Alexander City, 35010, 256-329-0845; 1445 626 7 11 7 mi. SE of Alexander City •• ••• ••••• • •

SOUTH BLADON SPRINGS 12 3921 Bladon Rd., Bladon Springs, 36919, 205-459-3459; 357 10 1 mi. N of Bladon Springs • •

BLUE SPRINGS 103 50 3 13 2595 AL Hwy. 10, Clio, 36017, 334-397-4875; 6 mi. E of Clio • •• •• • CHEWACLA 14 124 Shell Toomer Pkwy., Auburn, 36830, 334-887-5621; 696 36 6 4 mi. S of Auburn, U.S. Hwy. 29 off I-85 • • ••• ••• • • CHICKASAW 15 26955 U.S. Hwy. 43, Gallion, 36742, 334-295-8230; 520 8 4 mi. N of Linden on U.S. Hwy. 43, near Demopolis • • ••

FRANK JACKSON 2050 32 3 16 100 Jerry Adams Dr., Opp, 36467, 334-493-6988 • • •• ••• • • LAKEPOINT * Park: 104 Lakepoint Dr., Eufaula, 36027-9202, 334-687-6026; 1220 190 39 101 17 Resort Inn: U.S. Hwy. 431N, Eufaula, 36072, 800-544-5253/ • •• • ••••••••• •• • 334-687-8011; 7 mi. N of Eufaula off U.S. Hwy. 431

PAUL M. GRIST 1080 11 18 1546 Grist Rd., Selma, 36701, 334-872-5846; 15 mi. N of Selma • •• ••• • • ROLAND COOPER 19 285 Deer Run Dr., Camden, 36726, 334-682-4838; 6 mi. NE 236 47 5 of Camden • • ••• • • • •

GULF COAST GULF 20115 AL Hwy. 135, Gulf Shores, 36542, Office and Cabin Info: 6150 496 31 18 20 251-948-7275; Campground Reservations: 251-948-7275; Pier: • •• ••••• ••• •••• 21250 E. Beach Blvd., Gulf Shores, 36542, 251-967-FISH MEAHER 21 5200 Battleship Pkwy. E, Spanish Fort, 36577, 251-626-5529; 1327 56 2 2 mi. W of Spanish Fort on U.S. Hwy. 90 • • •• •

HISTORICAL Historical parks are not operated by the Parks Division—please call individual park.

BLAKELEY 2000 22 33707 AL Hwy. 225, Spanish Fort, 36527, 251-626-0798 • • • ••

BRIERFIELD IRONWORKS 45 39 2 23 240 Furnace Pkwy., Brierfield, 35035, 205-665-1856 • • •• • • ••• Sunset at Cheaha State Park

TANNEHILL IRONWORKS 1500 195 6 24 12632 Confederate Pkwy., McCalla, 35111, 205-477-5711 • • •• •• • •••

164 | 2020 Alabama Vacation Guide & Calendar Tour unique towns and villages that make up the foothills Shoals Sound Studios, where artists such as The Rolling of the Appalachian Mountains in North Alabama, such as Stones, Aretha Franklin and the Black Keys recorded. Along Mentone, Fort Payne, Scottsboro, Gadsden and Anniston. the way. you will ride across and near the mighty Tennessee As you ride the highways and byways in this area, you will River. This portion of your trip will follow the same route as Motorcycling discover several state parks and a manificent national park the Trail of Tears annual motorcycle ride, which ends near site. Cheaha State Park, near Anniston, is the state’s highest the Wichahpi Commemorative Stone Wall, a few steps from point. Inside the park, there are scenic roads and an abun- where the routes through Alabama. dance of natural beauty waiting to be discovered. Just a short distance away is Noccalula Falls in Gadsden. Ride through rolling hills, covered bridges, and the wide open cotton fields of Bankhead National Forest as you make Venturing into Northeast Alabama, you will discover Little your way to Birmingham. In Alabama’s Magic City, you’ll River Canyon National Preserve, part of the U.S. National discover the world’s largest collection of motorcycles at the in Alabama Park system. Ride the scenic roads past mushroom rock Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum and learn about the along Little River Canyon. Stop along the route to enjoy pic- history of Southern aviation at the Southern Museum of turesque outlooks. Other pleasurable sites that await you are Flight. Other thrilling motor museums in the area include When riding through Alabama you are treated to curvy Grace’s High Falls, Little River Falls and DeSoto State Park. Talladega Superspeedway’s International Motorsports Hall of Fame, the Mustang Museum of America in Odenville, roads, covered bridges, scenic outlooks, lush forests and In the Scottsboro area, travel Jackson County Road 21 to and the Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum in Calrea. Jackson County Road 33 and experience a portion of road- cascading waterfalls. way nicknamed “Snake Way.” It’s the curviest and steepest Highway 31 runs parallel to much of I-65 and is an excellent road in Alabama with six true hairpins turns and incredi- choice for anyone wanting to take the road less traveled ble elevation changes, all within a one-mile section of the from north to south Alabama. If you travel this route from roadway. This roadway is so incredibly challenging that only Birmingham, you could end up at Spanish Fort near Mobile the best of motorcyclist will dare to ride it. You may want to and Gulf Shores. Any motorcyclist would find plenty to think twice before attempting to maneuver it. enjoy in this part of Alabama, including the infamous Flo- raBama roadside bar and the resort cities of Gulf Shores/ Head to Huntsville to see the world’s largest space museum, Orange Beach. as well as historic Mobile, offering the USS the U.S. Space & Rocket Center. Then travel to the Florence Alabama Battleship Memorial Park and a number of other and Muscle Shoals area to see historic FAME and Muscle attractions. Alabama’s Beaches

The unspoiled natural beauty of Alabama’s coast combined with fun family activities, soft sand beaches and incredible sunsets makes this region Alabama’s number one outdoor destina- tion. Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and Dauphin Island offer sug- ar-white sand beaches warmed by sunshine and the beautiful Gulf of Mexico waters.