Take a Hike
The metropolitan area offers an array of hiking trails.
THE DETAILS
- alapark.com, for Oak Mountain, Cheaha and other state parks
- localhikes.com/MSA/MSA_1000.asp, for hikes in and around the Birmingham area
- friendsofredmountainpark.org/wp/, for information about Red Mountain Park, tours and the park’s history dating to before the Civil War
- outdooralabama.com, for Forever Wild public-use information
By Alan Clemons Photo courtesy of Jeremy and Rebecca Allen
Getting out and about in winter typically isn’t on the minds of most folks, other than to go shopping or to visit relatives for the holidays. But that doesn’t mean the outdoors shut down during December.
Instead, consider it a time to take a different view of nature’s offerings. Leaves have dropped from the trees, views in some areas are more expansive, and a few hours on the trail on a brisk, sunny day can chase away the blahs of being cooped up indoors at home or in the office all week.
For a metropolitan area, Birmingham and its surrounding cities offer great getaways. Hop in the car and within an hour or so you can escape for the afternoon. A backpack with a few apples, a sandwich and bottle of water is a super way to enjoy a break at a scenic spot with family or friends.
One thing to remember is Alabama’s deer hunting season is open through Jan. 31. Hikers should take note to wear brightly-colored clothing—red, yellow, orange or blue—and avoid white or brown. Although hunting is prohibited in most public hiking areas, it’s best to be safe and not take a chance.
Two state parks, Oak Mountain and Cheaha, should be on any list for hiking in winter. Oak Mountain State Park is located near Pelham and has more than 9,940 forested acres with 51 miles of trails. Six main trails offer a variety for novices or experienced hikers. Cheaha State Park includes Mount Cheaha, at 2,407 feet the tallest peak in the state, and is about 20 miles south of Anniston.
At both parks, visitors may encounter whitetail deer while hiking on trails. Take binoculars for a better look or a camera to snap photos. Birdwatching is good in both parks, too, for over-wintering birds such as cardinals, nuthatches, raptors and other birds. The parks visitor’s centers have checklists if you want to get started with this popular and fun hobby.
Alabama’s Forever Wild land acquisition program was approved by voters in 1992 and has helped provide thousands of acres for public use throughout the state. Those include recreation property, natural preserves and expanded Wildlife Management Areas and state parks.
Among those are the 462 acres in the Turkey Creek Preserve near Pinson. Pines and hardwoods provide shade for hikers who want to experience a small slice of the outdoors along one of the area’s diverse waterways.
Thanks to Patrick Byington of Birmingham, senior associate at The Wilderness Society and publisher of bamanews.com, for his assistance.
