One of the best ways to experience Alabama's natural beauty is to explore its scenic trails. One trail in particular is the state's Sunset Drive Walking Trail. For information about this trail, including why it belongs on your bucket list, take a look below.
The Sunset Drive Walking Trail is a scenic trail that's located in Guntersville, Alabama.
This paved trail, which has a distance of 3.66 miles, meanders along the shoreline of...
...Lake Guntersville. Covering approximately 60,000 acres, Lake Guntersville is Alabama's largest lake.
In addition to Lake Guntersville, you'll see many other places while strolling this trail, including a...
...fishing pier, the Guntersville Recreation Center, historic homes, a beach area, and so much more.
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Even though Alabama's Sunset Drive Walking Trail is primarily used for walking (hence its name), several people also use it for...
...biking. So, if you own a bike, and your family and/or friends also own one, be sure to call them up and explore this scenic trail together.
Without a doubt, the most rewarding part of walking or biking Alabama's Sunset Drive Walking Trail at dusk is the sunset you'll get to experience. Its reflection off Lake Guntersville is truly spectacular!
Have you ever walked or biked along Alabama's Sunset Drive Walking Trail in Guntersville? If so, please share your experience with us in the comments below.
While Alabama’s fall foliage show starts in the northern part of the state, do not discount the wondrous wash of colors that extend far to the south. One such destination is the sprawling, 11,861-acre Oak Mountain State Park in Pelham, Alabama. Established in 1927, it is the state’s oldest state park. It’s also the largest and a definite favorite among trail adventurers, especially when the leaves change each fall.
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Located just 20 miles south of Birmingham in Pelham, the park has over 100 miles of trails for hikers, mountain bikers, trail runners, and equestrians. While some of that total is multi-use, a good amount is set aside for each of these groups so they can enjoy their chosen adventure to its fullest: 27 miles are for equestrians only; 32 are for hikers only; and 42 are for mountain bikers and hikers.
Since the whole park bursts with color during peak leaf season, it can be tough to pick one trail among these to be the “best.” That said, I am going with the Red Road Trail for its solid trail user ratings, the fact it’s considered moderate, and perhaps most of all, its 12.7-mile, out-and-back route. It’s long but not too tough for beginners and gives you ample time to take in the fall wonder of the dense forest surrounding you. And of course, you don’t have to do the whole thing, depending on how much time you have!
The Red Trail/Road begins at the North Trailhead on John Findley Drive, which is about six miles into the park from the front gate and about two miles in from the back gate. Other trails that start here are the White, Blue, North Lakes Connector, and Yellow trails. This trail is called a “road” because it follows an original logging road used by Civilian Conservation Corps workers in the 1930s as they built out the park.
The admission fee to access the park is $5 for ages 12 to 61; $2 for ages 4 to 11; and $2 for ages seniors who are 62 or older. Admission is waived for kids who are age 3 or younger, as well as active or retired military members and veterans.
What makes fall colors so special here is the contrasts: The largest longleaf pine forest in Alabama soars from the grounds of Oak Mountain State Park, framing all of the color pops of the deciduous hardwoods. The park also has the largest known population of much shorter and endangered Boynton Oak Trees. There are two more rare species discovered in recent years here, too — the Georgia Aster and Alabama Sandstone Oak.
Rocky outcrops and creek crossings punctuate the trail, so wear sturdy and water-resistant shoes. Some hikers recommend leather boots to tackle the rocks comfortably. You’ll see hikers and mountain bikers on this trail, which includes easy walking on gentle inclines to steep ascents in some places, giving it that moderate difficulty rating.
Along the way, keep watch for the park's abundant wildlife, including white-tailed deer, gray squirrels, and dozens of bird species. If you’re doing the whole trail, pack snacks for a well-earned pause midway through. (As always, remember to pack up your trash and leave no trace.) Also, pups are welcomed as long as you keep them on a physical leash no longer than six feet in length. The park does have an off-leash, enclosed dog park for freer romping if needed.
Just a few other amenities you can enjoy at this massive park include fully renovated camping facilities, multiple picnic areas, and a golf course. If you’re like me and want a dose of education with your recreation, plan some time to visit the Oak Mountain Interpretive Center and Alabama Wildlife Center to learn more about the park’s history and the creatures who call it home.
If you've not taken this trail before, consider signing up for an AllTrails account to get more details and firsthand reviews from hikers about the Red Road Trail at Oak Mountain State Park. And if you're a frequent OMSP trail trekker, we'd love to hear your thoughts on this one!
When it comes to getting out and exploring nature, Alabama doesn't disappoint! The Yellowhammer State is filled with many hiking trails, some of which are much shorter than others. One trail in particular that, although short, offers a great adventure is the Rainbow Mountain Loop Trail. Because of its short distance, it's the perfect trail for day hikes in Alabama. To learn all about the Rainbow Mountain Loop Trail, take a look below.
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Rainbow Mountain Nature Preserve, which is located atop Rainbow Mountain in Madison, is one of North Alabama's most beautiful outdoor spots, and in our opinion, is one of the best loop trials in Alabama.
This nature preserve offers visitors more than three miles of trails, including its ever-so-popular Rainbow Mountain Loop Trail.
The Rainbow Mountain Loop Trail is a 1.5-mile loop trail with a moderate level of difficulty. It's the perfect trail to hike year-round. It even allows dogs, so be sure to bring your canine companion along for the adventure.
While hiking along this short and scenic trail, you'll encounter everything from waterfalls to wildflowers. Don't forget your camera!
Something else you'll encounter during your hike will be several rock formations, including "Balance Rock." Nobody knows exactly how this rock formation came to be, but it's certainly interesting nonetheless.
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Interestingly, many of the rock formations were also once used as caves.
And finally, while hiking the Rainbow Mountain Loop Trail, you'll also get to experience an incredible view that lets you see the city of Madison below. It's truly breathtaking!
Have you ever explored Alabama's Rainbow Mountain Loop Trail? If so, please share your experience with us in the comments section.
Another trek that's worth checking out is Stone Cuts Trail. Or, check out our epic guide to the best hikes in Alabama. It covers everything from short and easy day hikes in Alabama to some of our toughest and most scenic trails. Be sure to grab some maps from AllTrails+ before you go.