The Little Known Hiking Path in Lake Lurleen State Park is Our Favorite First Hike of the Year

I don't know about you, but when I think of starting the year afresh, time in the great outdoors always seems to do the trick. Fortunately, here in Alabama, our mild winters mean we have a treasure trove of outdoor activities to enjoy year-round. Whether you're partial to reflecting on the past year or looking ahead to a new year, the splendid waterfront and wooded terrain of Lake Lurleen Lakeside Trail will set the stage beautifully.

Tucked away in Tuscaloosa County, Alabama, Lake Lurleen State Park is a 1,600-acre retreat offering endless adventures in every season. Throughout the park, you'll discover approximately 23 miles of hiking trails to enjoy. Most of these trails stay close to the Lake Laurleen shoreline, offering gorgeous glimpses of the water. During the summer, you'll find the water teeming with activities: swimming, fishing, paddle boating, and more.

While summer and fall are obvious times to visit, we'd recommend trying a quieter wintertime excursion to Lake Laurleen. Not only will the park be less crowded than during peak seasons, but you'll also find greater visibility on the trails. One of our favorites to explore is the namesake Lake Laurleen Lakeside Trail, which is a 4-mile out-and-back trek.

The trail mostly hugs the lake, going in and out of the woods. However, you'll find the trail is well-marked and easy to follow in its entirety. The turning-around point is at the spillway, which is a lovely point of interest. Of course, you can keep going if you'd like a longer adventure. The terrain is relatively flat, with just a few small inclines. And, if you do choose to hike in the summer, you'll enjoy the fact that the trail is mostly shaded.

When was the last time you visited Lake Lurleen State Park? Would you go again to hike this peaceful Alabama trail? Be sure to share this article with someone you'd like to visit with! For more information, check out the official AllTrails listing. And then be sure to download AllTrails+ so you have all the information you need while you're out exploring the great outdoors!

After you've explored the park, you can check out some of the region's nearby attractions, including the University of Alabama campus, Northport, Tuscaloosa, or the Alabama Museum of Natural History.

Looking for related content? We've put together a list of some of our all-time favorite hiking trails in Alabama that also happen to be quiet and peaceful.