Beat the Winter Blues at This Picturesque Alabama State Park

As far as winters go, Alabama is pretty mild. But when those bouts of cold air and the occasional dusting of snow come through, it's all too tempting to stay indoors — preferably by a crackling fire. Of course, one of the best parts of living in Alabama is embracing the great outdoors all year long, winter included. The next time the frosty chill tempts you to stay inside, we'd challenge you to make a trip to Oak Mountain State Park, one of the best cold-weather destinations in Alabama.

Oak Mountain State Park is one of Shelby County's crown jewels. It was established almost 100 years ago as a 940-acre property located at the top of Double Oak Mountain. Today, it's over 11,000 acres and is one of the largest parks in all of Alabama. Plus, its proximity to Birmingham means it's easy to get to. And while this park isn't exactly a hidden gem, it is decidedly quieter and less crowded during the winter.

The most popular trail within the park is Kings Chair Loop, a 4.3-mile circuit that takes most hikers about two hours to complete. But this isn't a trail you'll want to rush through; there's so much to admire every step of the way. On a brisk winter day, you'll enjoy the clear air and impressive visibility, especially at the overlook. It's the perfect opportunity to stop and reflect.

Another reason to visit during the winter is that the bare trees allow for even more views where you wouldn't necessarily expect them. Seeing the ridgeline through the trees as the sun begins to dip below the horizon is a surefire way to feel connected to the landscape. If you'd prefer a shorter trek, there is a network of trails within the park that will allow you different options for hiking. Each is labeled, but it's a good idea to download AllTrails+ so that you can follow along on a map if needed. Some other popular hikes within the park include Maggie's Glen Loop, which is a 2.2-mile hike, and the Peavine Falls Short Loop, a 1.2-mile trail.

Have you ever hiked the Kings Chair Loop Trail in the middle of winter? What did you think? Be sure to share this article with someone you'd love to explore more of Alabama with! And if you need some suggestions on how to make your next Alabama getaway even better, check out our itinerary planner.