Alabama’s Black Belt, known for its deep history and vibrant landscapes, spans 18 counties and has trails perfect for hiking and biking.
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.
The region is considered a collection of 18 counties—Barbour, Bullock, Butler, Choctaw, Crenshaw, Dallas, Greene, Hale, Lowndes, Macon, Marengo, Montgomery, Perry, Pickens, Pike, Russell, Sumter, Wilcox—that stretches well over 100 miles. It’s no wonder the Black Belt has become an oasis for biodiversity and culture.
Groups like Alabama Black Belt Adventures are helping people discover all there is to do in the region. From hunting and fishing to birding and camping, the potential for exhilarating Alabama adventure is endless within the iconic Southeastern prairies and plains.
Hiking & Biking
With seven of the state’s parks, a national wildlife refuge, multiple rivers and hundreds of miles of trails within the region, you can always find something to do in the Alabama Black Belt.
Selma, Alabama – Dallas County
Known for its significant contributions to the Civil Rights movement, Selma, Alabama is home to a number of outdoor opportunities for families, individuals and explorers. One popular location is the Paul Grist State Park. This 1,080-acre park and 100-acre lake is a great place for enthusiasts. With nearly 20 miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as a birding trail, the park has options for all skill levels and adventurers.
When not visiting the state park, visitors and residents can explore many different historical and outdoor sites, like the Old Cahawba Archaeological Park (the site of Alabama’s first capital), the Old Depot Museum or the Old Cahawba Prairie Tract, which has hiking opportunities as well. Selma is also where the 1965 march from Selma to Montgomery took place, beginning at the Edmund Pettus Bridge. Learn more about the area’s history at the Selma Interpretive Center, which reopens fall 2025.
Marion, Alabama – Perry County
In the northwest corner of the state’s Black Belt region, the city of Marion is teeming with biodiversity. And places like Perry Lakes Park and Barton’s Beach Preserve provide opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts of all types. From hiking to kayaking to birding, there are a ton of opportunities to explore.
The series of lakes are a “cluster of old river channels… that were abandoned long ago as the Cahaba River changed course,” according to the park’s website. Visitors can also experience Baron’s Beach, which sits along the Cahaba River, as well as see a Spanish-Moss-draped cypress swamp.
Eufala, Alabama – Barbour County
Located right along the Alabama-Georgia border is the Eufala National Wildlife Refuge. Created in 1964, the refuge is on the banks of the Chattahoochee River and is comprised of wetlands, croplands, woodlands and grasslands—meaning there are a lot of diverse wildlife and habitats.
While common activities at the refuge include general observation, hunting and fishing, there are many great trails for walking. However, visitors wanting to walk through unmarked areas should check hunting schedules for their safety. Bikes are also allowed, but only on graveled roads.
Midway, Alabama – Bullock County
With more than 1,500 acres of rolling pine hills and hardwood bottoms, the Whele Land Conservation Center near Midway, Alabama provides a number of opportunities for recreational use. While some activities are only allowed during certain parts of the year, the Forever Wild Trail allows full-week access for hiking and birding through the hiking trail parking lot on Pleasant Hill Road. For more information on other activities, like hunting, fishing, camping and horseback riding, visit their website.
The Whele Tract is also an excellent location to witness some of Alabama’s magnificent birds. Alabama’s Forever Wild also recommends visitors trek the Alligator Lakes Nature Trail to see alligators, beavers and other wildlife.
Venturing to the Black Belt
There’s something for everyone to experience in the Alabama Black Belt region. Places like Blue Springs, Lakepoint, Roland Cooper and Chickasaw state parks, and Yoholo Micco, the Creek Indian Trail are also great options for outdoor adventurers looking for their next outing. And it’s not just a place for adventure—it’s also a great place to learn about the history of our state and our nation. From hiking to biking to everything in between, the Alabama Black Belt has it all.
Whatever it is you’re looking for, you can find it right here in Alabama. For more ways to find your next adventure, follow SEEK AL on Facebook and Instagram.
