When it comes to adventure, Alabama doesn’t disappoint! There are several places located throughout the Yellowhammer State that are perfect for anyone who loves adventure. While some of these places are easy to find, others are located off the beaten path and considered hidden gems. Hoping to go off the beaten path in Alabama? These are the destinations that are perfect for anyone who loves adventure (and then some). You’ll want to visit them all! How many of these hidden gems in Alabama are you already fond of? Let us know!
1. Dismals Canyon - Phil Campbell
Dismals Canyon, 901 County Rd 8, Phil Campbell, AL 35581, USA
Dismals Canyon is a beautiful sandstone gorge that's located off the beaten path in the small town of Phil Campbell. It's part of an 85-acre preserve and is one of the only places in the world where dismalites (rare insects resembling glowworms) live. Over the years, Dismals Canyon has become one of North Alabama's most popular spots for hiking and camping. Come see what all the hype is about - we promise it's well-earned! This canyon is outrageously beautiful.
2. Little River Canyon National Preserve - Fort Payne
Little River Wildlife Management Area, 4322 Little River Trail #100, Fort Payne, AL 35967, USA
Little River Canyon National Preserve, which is one of the most beautiful outdoor attractions in Alabama, is located atop of Lookout Mountain and covers more than 15,000 acres. Its main feature is Little River Canyon, a.k.a the "Grand Canyon of the East." Little River Falls (pictured) is another popular feature. Little River Canyon National Preserve is the perfect destination for anyone who loves the outdoors because it offers a variety of activities such as hiking, swimming, fishing, kayaking, camping, and more. We have a hard time believing anyone would dislike a visit to this gorgeous natural wonder.
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3. Kymulga Grist Mill Park - Childersburg
Kymulga Grist Mill Park, 7346 Grist Mill Rd #180, Alpine, AL 35014, USA
Kymulga Grist Mill Park, which is located just outside of Childersburg, covers five acres and was established in the 1860s. While at this park, you'll get to participate in a variety of activities, including tours and strolling along the Kymulga Covered Bridge, which happens to be one of the state's only two 19th-century covered bridges still standing in their original location. This one's for the lovers of all things history out there - talk about intriguing!
Neversink Pit, also known as Neversink Preserve, is a limestone sinkhole in Alabama that's located off the beaten path in Jackson County, Alabama. Throughout the years, it's attracted numerous cavers from near and far. Neversink Pit, which has an overall drop of 162 feet, is also one of the world's most photographed sinkholes! Who knew we were host to such an intriguing place? Well, now you do.
5. Alabama Safari Park - Hope Hull
Alabama Safari Park, 1664 Venable Rd, Hope Hull, AL 36043, USA
Alabama Safari Park, which covers approximately 350 acres, is a unique drive-thru attraction that's perfect for animal lovers of all ages. While experiencing this animal attraction, you'll get to feed a variety of animals from your very own vehicle. This is one of our favorite family-friendly attractions in Alabama and we think you'll love it, too!
6. Cherokee Rock Village - Leesburg
Cherokee Rock Village, 2000 County Rd 70, Leesburg, AL 35983, USA
Cherokee Rock Village was established in 1974 and is one of Alabama's most popular outdoor attractions. Covering approximately 200 acres, this unique park features massive sandstone boulders that experts believe are at least 300 million years old. Over the years, Cherokee Rock Village has also become a popular rock climbing destination. This is definitely another one for the history buffs.
7. Natural Bridge Park - Haleyville
Natural Bridge Park, 315 Co Rd 3500, Natural Bridge, AL 35577, USA
Natural Bridge Park is located off the beaten path in Winston County, Alabama. Its main feature is Natural Bridge, which has a length of 148 feet - making it the longest natural bridge east of the Rocky Mountains. This sandstone bridge is also one of the state's most impressive natural wonders. If you're a fan of lush greenery, a visit to this incredible natural wonder during spring or summer is definitely in order.
Have you ever been to any of these off-the-beaten-path Alabama locations? If so, please share your experience(s) with us in the comments below. Also, what other destinations would you add to this list? Which ones did we miss? Let us know!
For more information about one of our all-time favorite landmarks in Alabama, be sure to check out and walk through 200 acres of rock formations at Alabama’s Cherokee Rock Village. For more of our all-time favorite hiking trails in Alabama, be sure to check out this list of the best hikes in AL with a big payoff.
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More to Explore
Off The Beaten Path Alabama
Tori Jane|December 07, 2022
What kind of fun, Alabama off-the-beaten-path destinations are there?
This is a great state for off-the-beaten-path delights! Some of our all-time favorite Alabama off-the-beaten-path destinations include little jewels like:
3. What hikes in Alabama should I add to my bucket list?
Speaking of hidden gems, the entire state of Alabama is a hidden gem when it comes to hiking trails. There are numerous bucket-list-worthy hikes in AL you ought to add to your bucket list, including:
