We all know the health benefits of walking. But equally impactful is the power of being in nature and becoming “in tune” with our bodies and the beautiful, serene world around us. Here are four terrific hiking spots in our area that will do just the trick.
Lanark and the Alabama Wildlife Federation, Millbrook
The Alabama Wildlife Federation (AWF) has been promoting the proper use, management and restoration of our state’s wildlife, forests, fish, waters and soil in Alabama since 1935. And if you haven’t visited the organization’s world-class NaturePlex facility at Lanark, we’d suggest you do. But just as impressive is its great outdoor arena that beckons visitors to hike and explore the immense property. Lanark contains 350 acres of captivating forests, fields, streams and wetlands with five miles of trails and boardwalks, divided into three regions: Steel Creek Run, Turkey Ridge and Hilltop Pass. Be sure to enjoy this part of the Alabama Birding Trail while you’re there too.
Chewacla State Park, Auburn
At nearly 700 acres, this state park property encompasses a beautiful lake, cascading waterfalls and, of course, plenty of hiking trails that range from easy to not-as-easy, depending on your ambition. Expect a fairly flat 20-minute hike on the most popular waterfall trail, but then be prepared to tackle some beautiful hills on the property and plenty of densely forested hiking trails. Sweet Shrub Trail, Boy Scout Trail, Troop 30 Boy Scout Trail, Eagle Scout Trail, Deer Rub Trail and Mountain Laurel Trail are the six primary trails. This park even has some gnarly mountain bike trails as well. As a side note: If you want to roam free, you should probably avoid weekends during Auburn University’s home football games!
Wind Creek State Park, Alex City
If you’re from the River Region, you know that picturesque Lake Martin is right down the road, and Wind Creek State Park sits right on its shores. As one of the largest state-owned campgrounds in the country, you can imagine the hiking potential at this scenic stop is endless. Although Wind Creek serves as the public’s access to a largely privately owned lake, it also boasts more than 25 miles of hiking trails and a huge shoreline to enjoy. There are actually trails for hiking, cycling and riding horses.
Fort Toulouse, Wetumpka
This historic park (owned and operated by the Alabama Historical Commission) is located on the banks of the Coosa River and isn’t far from where the river merges to make the Alabama River in nearby Montgomery. There are plenty of hiking trails on the grounds, some marked and unmarked, as well as plenty of well-kept dirt and paved roads for leisurely biking. While there, pay particular attention to the Bartram Trail, named after a well-known botanist who visited the site in 1776 to research and make note of the area’s plants, animals and people.
