In Alabama, there's no need to travel far to experience beautiful scenery. As a matter of fact, the best way to experience the beauty of Alabama is to visit one of the state's many scenic overlooks. Here are 11 of Alabama's scenic overlooks to get you started:
1. Visit Hawk's Glide Overlook for a lovely view of the Little River.
2. Freedom Hills Overlook, as seen here, is located along the Natchez Trace Parkway at mile marker #317.
advertisement
3. This overlook creates such a wonderful view of Little River Canyon.
4. A girl and her dog are enjoying a gorgeous view of Alabama from Bald Rock Overlook.
5. The overlook on Ruffner Mountain has created such a spectacular view of Birmingham.
advertisement
6. A drive along Hwy 281 will bring you to this beautiful view of Mt. Cheaha.
7. Here's another stunning view of Little River Canyon from Crow Point Overlook.
8. The overlook in this breathtaking image, located on top of a mountain in Palisade's Park, is looking out over eastern Blount County.
9. Here's a wonderful view of the mountains from Monte Sano State Park Overlook.
10. Battery Hill, located in Bridgeport, is overlooking the Tennessee River.
11. This overlook, located in Sand Rock, creates such a breathtaking view of Alabama's Weiss Lake.
Have you experienced the beauty of Alabama from any of these scenic overlooks?
There are many places in Alabama that offer an incredible view. While some of these places are easy to access, others require quite a climb. One of these places that you'll have to climb in order to enjoy the view is the historic Smith Mountain Fire Tower. To learn all about the Smith Mountain Fire Tower in Alabama, including what it takes to reach the top, take a look below.
advertisement
Alabama's Smith Mountain Fire Tower is located in Jackson's Gap and is accessible via the Walker Bynum Smith Mountain Tower Trail, which is simply known as the “Smith Mountain Fire Tower Trail.”
Since opening to the public in 2012, this fire tower has welcomed hikers of all ages from across the state of Alabama and beyond.
The Smith Mountain Fire Tower, which was originally built in 1939 by Alabama Power Company, is approximately 90 feet tall. In fact, you'll have to climb 111 steps to reach the top of it.
While atop of this historic fire tower, you'll get to experience beautiful views of Lake Martin. Interestingly, Lake Martin is one of the United States' largest man-made lakes.
And finally, the moment you experience these breathtaking views of Lake Martin, it won't take long before realizing the climb to the top of the fire tower was more than worth it.
Have you ever climbed the Smith Mountain Fire Tower in Alabama? If so, what did you think of the view? Was it well worth the climb? Please share your thoughts with us in the comments below.
No matter what part of the state you're in, there are many picturesque mountains in Alabama. Sure, some are a great deal higher than others, but each of them offer incredible views. Some of these mountains also offer great recreational opportunities. It's no wonder that people keep coming back to them time and time again! Here are eight of our favorite mountains in Alabama that are definitely worth checking out next time you're looking for an adventure:
advertisement
1. Cheaha Mountain - Delta
With an elevation of 2,411 feet above sea level, Cheaha Mountain is the highest natural point in the Cotton State. You'll find the mountain at the state park that shares its name, and it's no wonder this is one of the most-visited state parks in Alabama. The trail here will give you some of the most incredible views in the entire state.
2. Lookout Mountain - DeKalb County
Lookout Mountain spans three states: Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee. This is an amazing spot that features beautiful waterfalls, lovely canyons, unique villages, and so much more. No matter the season, it's the perfect place to enjoy the natural beauty of Alabama. This mountain just might be the most beautiful place in Alabama.
3. Monte Sano Mountain - Huntsville
Monte Sano Mountain is located in Madison County. It's a horseshoe-shaped mountain with an elevation of 1,621 feet. The name "Monte Sano" means "mount of health" in Italian. The state park that's named for it is a great Alabama day trip that will make you feel miles away from your troubles.
advertisement
4. McDill Point - Oxford
McDill Point has an elevation of 2,188 feet. It's the ninth-highest mountain in Alabama. One thing that is unique about this mountain is a trail to a plane wreck from 1972.
5. Red Mountain - Birmingham
Red Mountain is part of the Ridge-and-Valley region of the Appalachian Mountains. It's also home to Red Mountain Park, an adventure park with plenty to entertain you, from hiking to biking and zip-lining.
6. Talladega Mountains
The Talladega Mountains contain the state's highest peaks. The range runs through parts of Cherokee, Calhoun, Cleburne, Talladega, and Clay Counties. The Talladega Mountains also contains the longest hiking path in Alabama: perfect for an afternoon adventure!
7. Bald Rock Mountain - St. Clair County
Bald Rock Mountain has an elevation of 1,558 feet. It offers excellent hiking opportunities. The overlook here offers some of the best views in Alabama. It's accessible year-round and is beautiful in any season.
8. Shades Mountain - Hoover
Shades Mountain includes all of Birmingham's Bluff Park neighborhood, in addition to portions of Vestavia Hills, Homewood, and Mountain Brook. This is such a beautiful place!
Have you ever visited any of these amazing mountains in Alabama? Have any other favorites that you think belong on the list? Share your thoughts in the comments!