It’s no secret Alabama is a nature lover’s dream. From beautiful parks and scenic preserves, to stunning waterfalls and crystal-clear lakes, there are many beautiful places located throughout the Yellowhammer State just waiting to be discovered. Listed below are 10 of Alabama’s most beautiful places that belong on your bucket list, especially if you’re obsessed with nature.
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Please note, Perry Lakes Park is temporarily closed.
1. Little River Canyon National Preserve - Fort Payne
Little River Canyon National Preserve, which is located atop Lookout Mountain, is one of the Southeast's top outdoor tourist attractions. Two of the preserve's main features are Little River Falls and Little River Canyon, a.k.a. the "Grand Canyon of the East."
2. Sipsey Wilderness - William B. Bankhead National Forest
The Sipsey Wilderness, which is one of the Southeast's top hiking spots, is tucked away inside North Alabama's William B. Bankhead National Forest. It covers nearly 25,000 acres and features 45 miles of scenic trails. This wilderness area attracts hikers from all over the world.
Perry Lakes Park, which is a natural river bottomland, covers approximately 600 acres and is one of Alabama's most beautiful nature spots. It offers four oxbow lakes and interpretive nature trails that'll lead you through the park.
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4. Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge - Gulf Shores
The Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, which was established in 1980, is located along Alabama's beautiful Gulf Coast. Covering approximately 7,000 acres, this beautiful wildlife refuge is a resting and feeding spot for migratory birds.
Covering approximately 69,000 acres, Lake Guntersville is Alabama's largest lake. From boating and fishing, to swimming and water skiing, this beautiful lake offers a variety of recreational activities for everyone.
Turkey Creek Nature Preserve covers nearly 500 acres and is one of the Southeast's most beautiful outdoor attractions. Thousands of people visit this preserve each year for its beautiful scenery, in addition to its incredible swimming, fishing, and hiking opportunities.
Dismals Canyon, which covers approximately 85 acres within the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, is located off the beaten path in the small North Alabama town of Phil Campbell. What makes this scenic canyon so unique is that it's home to dismalites, which are rare insects that resemble glowworms.
DeSoto Falls is located near the charming town of Mentone and is one of Alabama's most popular waterfalls. Plunging 104 feet, it's also one of the tallest waterfalls in the Southeast.
Lewis Smith Lake, which is commonly referred to as "Smith Lake," is located in Cullman, Winston, and Walker counties. It covers nearly 22,000 acres and is Alabama's cleanest lake.
10. Cahaba River National Wildlife Refuge - West Blocton
The Cahaba River National Wildlife Refuge is a scenic area that's located along Alabama's Cahaba River. Covering nearly 4,000 acres, this wildlife refuge is also home to the world's largest stand of Cahaba lilies.
Have you been to any of these nature spots? If so, please share your experience(s) with us in the comments. Also, what other nature spots in Alabama would you add to this bucket list?
