Hiking

Take the first step into exploring the diverse landscapes Alabama has to offer. Adventure into the wilderness in our endless miles of hiking and running trails in the state. Whether you land in Huntsville or down at the coast, you can find a trail adventure waiting for you wherever you are.

Seasonality: Year-round
Optimal Skill Level: Beginner to expert

Take a hike

Hiking

Hike through all Alabama has to offer outdoors. Go on a short hiking exploration with friends and family at Ruffner Mountain in Birmingham or venture out into the wilderness and backpack at Sipsey in the Bankhead National Forest. From casual exercise to brave adventures, we have endless opportunities in our beautiful state.

Take the beaten path at some of Alabama’s best hiking destinations.

Pinhoti Trail

Central-Eastern, AL

Connecting the Appalachian trail deeper into the South, the 335-mile Pinhoti trail travels through northern Georgia and into Alabama, ending on Flagg Mountain near Weogufka. While this long-distance trail might seem ambitious, many will section- or thru-hike this trail in much smaller chunks over a long period of time.

Chewacla State Park

Auburn, AL

With nearly 700 acres of serene landscape, Chewacla State Park delivers a perfect place to connect with nature. Six hiker-optimized trails decorate the park, with 12 total multi-use trails available for hikers to explore on. Hikers of all skill levels can access the trails, as ratings range from beginner to advanced.

Sipsey Wilderness

Double Springs, AL

Located within Bankhead National Forest, Sipsey Wilderness is one of three wilderness areas within our state. A great choice for wilderness explorers, the nicknamed Land of 1,000 Waterfalls totals 25,809 acres and 50 miles of trails. Sipsey is truly a trail adventure to behold.

Ruffner Mountain

Birmingham, AL

Located just northeast of Birmingham lies Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve. Known for its popular overlook of downtown, this preserve offers miles of hiking and many scenic destinations. Ruffner also has many historic mines formerly operated by the Sloss Furnace Company on site. Be sure to look out for those on the trails.

Perdido River Hiking Trail

Gulf Shores, AL

Head down to the gulf and hike near the coast. This 17.9-mile hiking trail runs next to the canoe trail of the same name. This well-marked trail passes through pine forests and pitcher plant bogs and runs along the Florida-Alabama line.

Pulpit Rock at Cheaha State Park, By John Denney III

Talladega National Forest, By Jesse Adams

Cheaha State Park, By Catherine Vaughan Helmsing

As you explore, follow leave no trace principles, stay on marked trails and help keep Alabama beautiful.

Featured Article

Hiking & Biking in the Alabama Black Belt

Deep in the heart of the South is a vast stretch of the state that provides rich, fertile, dark soil. Alabama’s Black Belt. An area with a deep-rooted history and a story essential to our development as a state and nation. In addition to its historical significance—including a rich tapestry of Civil Rights milestones—this lower-central Alabama region boasts numerous outdoor recreation opportunities, like hiking and biking, for residents and visitors alike.