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.

Hit the OPEN Roads

Trail Running

Lace-up your trail runners and hit the mountains in Alabama. Take in the beauty of the outdoors as you run the path less traveled. Our diverse landscape gives you countless scenic options and views. Whether you’re a serious runner or a casual jogger, our state offers many trails to fit your needs and preferences.

Find your rhythm with these Alabama trail running destinations.

Lagoon Park Trail

Montgomery, AL

Located within the heart of northeast Montgomery, Lagoon Park boasts around 430 acres of land and over six miles of multi-use trails—a perfect place for a trail run. This natural trail features a mostly flat surface and winds through the forest and along creeks, lagoons and a pond.

Hurricane Creek Park

Tuscaloosa, AL

This multi-use trail found in Tuscaloosa nearly five miles from the campus of The University of Alabama is a perfect choice for those looking to get moving outdoors. With a mix of gravel and natural trails, Hurricane Creek Park has options for every type of trail runner.

Oak Mountain State Park

Birmingham, AL

Located in Pelham, just south of Birmingham, Oak Mountain State Park boasts the title of Alabama’s largest state park. With nearly 12,000 acres of property and over 100 miles of trails, Oak Mountain has options for hikers, bikers, riders and runners. Runners should explore the blue, green, yellow and white trails.

Little River Canyon National Preserve

Fort Payne, AL

Located on Lookout Mountain in Northeast Alabama, Little River Canyon has nine different trails that wind through scenic landscapes and even travel down into the canyon. Although many of the trails have an out-and-back construction, hikers can create loops as well.

Monte Sano State Park

Huntsville, AL

North Alabama’s favorite state park, Monte Sano, translates to “Mountain of Health”—a perfect description for the tranquility it provides. Venture out on the 20 miles of hiking and running trails and explore the beauty of North Alabama.

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

An Insider’s Guide to Hiking Oak Mountain

Just at dawn, before the sun peeks through the canopy above, wayfarers and travelers are hitting the trails at Oak Mountain State Park. Trees dance in the wind. Rushing waters set a cathartic rhythm. And birds sing a peaceful melody—a refreshing refrain. All is calm. All is still. No one is an outsider.