If you’re a fan of nature, you’re in luck! There are some pretty amazing forests in Alabama, both state and national. These forests provide great escapes for anyone who’s wanting to get away for a little peace and quiet. In Alabama’s forests, you’ll have a chance to view a variety of wildlife species, as well as several beautiful landscapes, including magnificent waterfalls, beautiful wild flowers and flowering trees. Outdoor enthusiasts who visit Alabama’s forests will have the opportunity to enjoy several recreational activities, some of which include hiking, mountain biking, swimming and boating.
Listed below are 8 amazing forests in Alabama that you should definitely check out if you’re a nature lover.
1. Conecuh National Forest
The Conecuh National Forest, situated just above the Florida panhandle, covers approximately 83,000 acres. Its primary trail, the Conecuh Trail, winds 20 miles through Alabama's coastal plain. Camping, hiking and mountain biking are popular recreational activities enjoyed by many at the Conecuh National Forest.
2. Talladega National Forest
The Talladega National Forest, located in Alabama at the southern edge of the Appalachian Mountains, covers approximately 392,567 acres. This spectacular forest is home to Cheaha Mountain, Alabama's highest point. Outdoor enthusiasts love hiking the trails in the Talladega National Forest.
3. William B. Bankhead National Forest
Established in 1918, the William B. Bankhead National Forest, located in the Double Springs area, covers 181,230 acres and is home to Alabama's only National Wild and Scenic River, the Sipsey Fork. The William B. Bankhead National Forest is known as the "Land of a Thousand Waterfalls" and is a popular destination for horseback riding, hiking, boating, fishing, swimming, etc.
4. Weogufka State Forest
Weogufka State Forest is located in Coosa County, Alabama and is a popular destination for hikers. A popular feature of this forest, if not "the" most popular feature, is Flagg Mountain. This picturesque mountain, which has an elevation of 1,152 feet, includes the popular Flagg Mountain Trail. Flagg Mountain Trail is a moderate 6.4 mile out-and-back trail that's mostly used for hiking.
5. Geneva State Forest
At 7,120 acres, Geneva State Forest is Alabama's largest state forest. This gorgeous forest is located in Geneva County, Alabama and provides timber for the lumber industry. Geneva State Forest offers several recreational activities, including hunting, fishing, hiking and camping. If you're interested in checking out this state park, you're in luck. It's open year-round.
6. Choccolocco State Forest
Choccolocco State Forest, located in Calhoun County, Alabama, doubles as a State Forest and Wildlife Management Area. This forest is lovely, but it has gone through some rough times in the past. For example, a severe snowstorm during the winter of 1993 damaged nearly 118 acres. A couple of years later, 58,000 longleaf pines were planted to complete the forest's restoration. Visitors of Choccolocco State Forest will have the opportunity to enjoy numerous recreational activities, including hiking, mountain biking, hunting, etc. If you appreciate beautiful scenery, you simply must check this forest out.
7. Little River State Forest
The Little River State Forest is located between Monroe and Escambia counties and consists of approximately 2,100 acres of longleaf pine forest. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy a variety of recreational activities such as hiking, camping, fishing and horseback riding. While visiting the Little River State Forest, be sure to keep your eyes wide open because you'll have plenty of chances to view beautiful wildlife, including deer, turkey, rabbits, quail, bobcats, foxes, etc. This wonderful forest is also a great place for bird watching.
8. Tuskegee National Forest
The Tuskegee National Forest, located in Macon County, Alabama, is the smallest national forest in the United States. Regarding recreational activities, visitors of this forest will have the opportunity to hike the forest's four main hiking trails, three of which are also mountain biking trails. Visitors will also enjoy horseback riding, fishing and camping. If you're a nature lover, a trip to Tuskegee National Forest is a must.
Have you visited any of these Alabama forests? If so, let us know which one(s) and what your thoughts are about it!
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