This is a roughly two-mile hike that’s suitable for more skilled hikers. You might see horses, dogs, and mountain bikers along the path, as well as other hikers, along the way. The elevation gain isn’t too bad, at just over 400 feet, but the 90-foot waterfall at the end of the hike makes this a jaunt worth having.
The Walls of Jericho Trail provides a much more difficult hike. This trail also features a waterfall, dogs, and horses, but the elevation gain is almost 1,700 feet, and the rocks can be quite slick. Be ready for bugs. But if you’re up for the challenge, an overnight stay along the trail will grant you some of the best nighttime views anywhere in the country.
The Chinnabee Silent Trail, part of the Cheaha Wilderness, is a moderate trail, lasting just over seven miles. It is recommended for use from March until November. You might see a few dogs along the path, but they must be kept on a leash. You’ll find great waterfalls, and a totally secluded area.
The Rainbow Mountain Loop Trail cuts through a moderately difficult forest. Although the trail is only a mile and a half, it is viewed as one of the more moderately difficult paths in the area due to a few steep areas and rock formations. You may see a few streams, but no major waterfalls. If you’re in the mood for a good, quick workout, then Rainbow Mountain Loop Trail is just the ticket.
The Cave Creek Trail from Cheaha Trailhead in Cheaha State Park is an almost seven-mile loop with a waterfall along the way. The trailhead is one possible starting point along the larger Pinhoti Trail. According to recent hikers, the west side of the loop can be quite difficult, as it is very rocky. Consider camping along the path, but beware of possible snakes.
]]>This expansive park is home to a popular off-leash dog area, perfect for a relaxed walk or for an invigorating game of fetch. On top of that, visitors can take in the sights of the city's biggest event each year, the Auburn CityFest.
Visitors to Moss Rock Preserve can marvel at the breathtaking 349-acre nature system complete with forest systems, large rock outcroppings, streams, waterfalls, wildlife, and other unique natural features. Dogs can be off-leash as they explore, and with six rare species of plants and a rare variant of Little River Canyon Sandstone Glade, there is no shortage of wonders to discover.
This 2.6 acre fenced-in park features plenty of shade trees and grassy areas, perfect for a leisurely stroll with your pup. Better yet, there are three separate fenced-in areas, with one primarily designated for smaller dogs. Allowing dogs to play off-leash, this park is sure to provide hours of joy for all its guests.
Located next to the spectacular pavilions and fields of Black Creek Park, this dog park is the perfect spot for a tranquil mid-day break amidst the park's stunning natural areas. Dogs can run off-leash while owners can relax and appreciate the beautiful outdoor surroundings.
At 11,632 acres, this park is Alabama’s largest, and is home to some of the state's most breathtaking rock outcroppings and nature trails. With the widest variety of outdoor activities to be found in any state park, Oak Mountain provides visitors with a truly unforgettable experience - and that includes the beloved four-legged family members!
This park is the best place to observe this boundary and its unique intersection of ecosystems. Come see for yourself why Tuscaloosa natives and their furry friends alike, love to stretch their legs and take in the scenery.
With 26 acre Lake Chewacla, there is no shortage of activities to keep both you and your pup entertained. Bring your own kayak or canoe and take a leisurely paddle around the lake, or try your luck at fishing for bream, bass, or catfish.
Follow the trails of this Birmingham park as you explore the athletic facilities, recreational play areas, and family gathering spots. With plenty of open areas, this trail offers a perfect opportunity for active humans and their canine friends to exercise and take in the stunning natural beauty of the park.
Prattville is home to over 750 acres of land, providing plenty of opportunities to explore and appreciate the outdoors with your pup. It is one of the gems of the city, offering a peaceful spot to roam off-leash and bask in the beauty of nature.
Boasting pavilions, natural areas and well maintained fields, Black Creek Park offers a plethora of possibilities for a day-long excursion with your pup. There are two large dog parks for your furry friend to explore, and plenty of sitting areas to take a break and take in the sights and smells of the day.
]]>For a view that is straight out of a painting, visit the boardwalk trail at Cheaha State Park. Centered in Talladega’s natural beauty and forestry, the short trail leads you to Bald Rock Outlook. The spectacular vista is a panorama worth viewing, and is accessible to the younger children in your family.
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If you love the mountains, then you will love the Bucca Family Trail at Monte Sano State Park. The trail is an easy stroll among the greenery of Monte Sano and, in the spring season, leads you along a path of elegant wild azaleas. If you have older kids and are up for more of a challenge, the trail connects to the Plateau Loop Trail leading to the gorgeous view at O’Shaughnessy Point.
If you’re a family that loves all things water, visit the Lakeside Trail at Lake Lurleen State Park. The scenic lake views are perfect for picnicking, and there are even spots to cast your fishing rod. You’ll enjoy the serenity of the clear waters, while your kids will love keeping an eye out for the catfish, bream, and bass that live in the waters.
If you’re on your way to Memphis for a family getaway, Dismals Canyon is the perfect spot to get out of the car and stretch your legs. At some points, Dismals Canyon can be an easy hike that will take you to a wondrous world of endless greens and hidden creeks. The haunting conservatory will enchant you and your family, and will have you longing to wander back through the rows of emerald trees year after year.
For an educational hike on historic lands, bring the family to Buck’s Pocket State Park and walk in the lands once occupied by the Cherokee and French settlers in the 1700s, and eventually the logging community in the 1940s. Explore scenic routes that, at some points, overlook the magnificent canyon. This trail is a little more difficult, but still possible for kids. Buck’s Pocket will be a beautiful site they will never forget.
]]>If you’re a seasoned trail runner, the Walls of Jericho trail provides plenty of challenge to push your skills even further. This six-mile out-and-back trail leads directly to a beautiful rocky gorge and waterfall, but beware the trail can be slippery once you get closer to the falls. It’s mostly a downhill run from the trailhead, which means you’ll be trekking uphill on the way out. Of course, this also means you’ll end your workout on a high note.
This loop trail in Monte Sano State Park is just long enough for an energizing run. If you’ve never been to Monte Sano State Park, this trail features some of the best views in the area. Rated as moderate, you’ll have a few terrain obstacles to keep you on your toes. If you’re strictly here for running, you’ll want to revisit the trail to explore the caves or test your rock climbing skills.
This 2.5-mile trail is recommended for more advanced trekkers. The start of the hike is not so difficult, but as you proceed on the route, things get tricky. So be prepared. Located in the Monte Sano Preserve, this is a great place for not only trail running but biking, environmental education, bird watching, and a relaxing picnic.
Other than a few twists and turns, this adventure is relatively simple. In fact, there are several alternative routes that can extend your run up to 12 miles. Though mostly flat, you’ll find a few small hills for a little variation to your run. Many runners use the trail to train for marathons or other races because it’s peaceful, quiet, and not too heavily trafficked. You’ll also enjoy river views along parts of the trail, plus the fall foliage here makes for a beautiful run.
The Moss Rock Preserve has plenty of great routes for trail running. You’ll get the feeling of being in the middle of nowhere, but civilization is just beyond the tree line. Trails take you past waterfalls, beautiful rock facings, and offer an overall scenic experience. If you’re looking for a good run on this trail, it may be best to avoid the weekends—when it is most heavily trafficked.
]]>Fellow off-road experts are pulling the strings at this shop. Inside you’ll find all the parts and supplies you need to keep your off-roading vehicle in tiptop shape. They specialize in UTV, Jeep, and truck parts and accessories, including armor, roll bars, entertainment system, lift kits, shocks, suspension, brakes, tires, wheels, and everything else to trick out your ride. If you’re looking to upgrade or start building your dream vehicle from scratch, you’ll want to start here.
The top concern at Freedom Powersports is that the custom is satisfied. If you’re looking for a new set of wheels, you’ve come to the right place. Find all of the best brands in off-roading, from Polaris to TrailMaster. The service department at Freedom Powersports is among the very best, too. It doesn’t matter what kind of work you want to get done on your off-roading vehicle, they’ll help you out.
Providing ATVs, UTVs, and all the parts and accessories to make them ride right, you’ll want to check them out. They can service all the vehicles they sell, in addition to helping you keep your rig off-road ready with spare parts and upgrades. Find top brands like Honda, Kawasaki, Yamaha, and Kymco, and Polaris, among others.
If you’re looking for the best in off-roading, Champion’s showroom is glistening with shiny new and pre-owned vehicles just begging for a spin through Mother Nature. Polaris and Victory are the top brands here, meaning you’ll always find great quality along with a good deal. They also back up their products with firsthand knowledge and experience to keep your purchase working adventure after adventure.
While known for their Yamaha motorcycles, their inventory of new and used ATVs and UTVs can’t be overlooked. Kawasaki, Yamaha, Honda, and Hammerhead vehicles line their showroom floor, along with all the parts and accessories you need to make it yours. They also feature a full-service department to keep your vehicle just like new.
E-Z-Go, Slingshot, Textron—it’s only the best in off-roading at Bama Buggies. Featuring new and used vehicles, they offer financing to help you get into the driver’s seat faster than ever, or you can trade in your current vehicle and upgrade to a bigger and better one. While you’re there, make sure you stock up on accessories to give your ride some character.
Offering some of the best in vehicles and service, the folks at Basch Brothers are off-road riders helping fellow off-road riders. They’re dedicated to helping you get the right vehicle to meet your needs, so you’ll have many years to enjoy your new toy. Along with new and used inventory, they also carry just about every part and accessory you can imagine. If they don’t have it, they’ll order it for you!
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Part of the Sipsey Wilderness Trail System, the Randolph Trail provides hikers a fairly easy two miles before giving way to a beautiful payoff—a view of the majestic Feather Hawk Falls. Along the way, look for the remnants of two old churches with cemeteries and other historical structures. It’s not a difficult hike, but one that you’ll need to be in fairly decent shape for if you want to reach the falls.
This one is a bit lengthy, being six miles one-way, but it sprinkles in enough challenges for intermediate hikers without pushing you to your absolute limits. This trail is part of a larger trail system that spans for dozens of miles. The first four miles are relatively easy, and provide an enjoyable, energizing hike. You’ll travel over a few footbridges along the way, and have an excellent view of the creek at Devil’s Den. There are several extremely rocky areas shortly after Devil’s Den that are slightly challenging. The remaining two miles take you through the Cheaha Wilderness, including a steep ascent toward the very end.
This 10-mile trail system features plenty for beginners and intermediate hikers. Start with the Stagecoach Plateau Trail, a 1.4-mile loop that provides just enough time to get a quick workout. This trail connects directly with the Dragon’s Tail, another intermediate trail of two miles that can extend your walk in the woods without venturing too far off course. The Dragon’s Tail loop will bring you back to the Stagecoach Plateau so you can continue your course without losing any ground. The trails are situated on a nature preserve, so there’s plenty of beautiful fall foliage and other scenery to keep you company on your travels.
Touted as one of the most beautiful hiking trails in the state, the Sipsey River Trail places you right in the midst of serenity. Along the way, you’ll come across multiple waterfalls, sandstone cliffs, and plenty of isolated wilderness that blocks out the sounds and sights of civilization. The trail is 6.7 miles of beautiful scenery from all angles, and will certainly be one you’ll want to hike more than once.
Also known as the “park for all seasons,” this nature trail gives hikers the perfect views of fall foliage as you make your way around the 1.5-mile trail. The trail is dotted with footbridges and a covered bridge, and provides stunning views of the central lake. It’s the perfect distance if you’re wanting a quick pick-me-up to keep you energized without having to go to the middle of nowhere to enjoy natural views.
]]>As the highest point in Alabama, Cheaha State Park is undoubtedly one of the best natural wonders of the state. This mountaintop escape offers no shortage of things to do, including hiking, a swimming pool, lodging, wildlife, waterfalls, rock climbing, mountain biking, a gem mine, and a shared passion for all things outdoors. Just $5 grants you all-day access to all the park has to offer, making this state park one of the most budget-friendly adventures you’ll ever experience.
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Start your day off right with a breakfast stop at CJ’s Family Restaurant. Located just minutes from the park, you can fill up on your favorite early morning staples to keep you focused on the day ahead. Their delicious flavors and family-friendly service has made CJ’s a favorite among locals and travelers alike.
History buffs won’t mind driving nearly an hour to Kymulga Grist Mill, one of the most visited historic sites in the area. This grist mill is steeped in Alabama history and features a park and covered bridge on-site waiting for you to come explore. It’s a photogenic site worthy of a postcard, so make sure you bring your camera.
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While you’re visiting Childersburg, keep the momentum going and visit the DeSoto Caverns. The town’s rich history continues underground in these iconic caves. DeSoto Caverns is a must see attraction “run by a family for families.” Aside from the jaw dropping onyx-marble stalagmites, there are also over 20 outdoor attractions at this park, such as archery, and rock climbing wall, and more. With something for everyone in your family, you won’t want to miss a beat here!
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Weather permitting, you can go tubing down the Choccolocco Creek in a comfy inflatable tube. Surrounded by nature, you’ll experience some of the best sights and sounds of the area with the feeling of being in the middle of nowhere. Sure, you can find tubing spots at Cheaha State Park’s lake, but they won’t quite match up to what you’ll discover at Floating Fun.
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After a day of playing outdoors, refuel at the Mounta Cheaha Restaurant located inside the park. This country-style eatery offers panoramic views of the park along with delicious fare you wouldn’t expect from a state park restaurant. The themed decor adds to the experience to make your meal as fun as it is tasty.
To finish off an exciting trip, head to Talladega Superspeedway to take in a NASCAR race. This site is one of the most popular for professional racing, attracting thousands of visitors to its stands each year. If you plan your visit just right, you’ll be able to see some of the greatest racers in modern history in this small Alabama town.
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Lake Guntersville offers the perfect opportunity to share your love of the water with your kids. Lake Guntersville has a lovely campsite that is perfect for kids of all ages, with access to hiking, fishing and boating. For older kids with a sense of adventure, the park has a zip line that zooms through the gorgeous greenery.
If you’re looking to camp a night on your way to Florida, stop by the Lake Jackson RV Park on the border. Your kids will love the spacious play areas and fresh swimming water. The campsite is close to a number of Victorian-style mansions and restaurants with classic southern cooking for more family fun.
Looking for a compromise between kid-friendly and beach haven? Gulf State Park campsite is the spot for you. With wide open beaches for kids to run free, build sandcastles, look for sea shells, and catch some waves, you can happily relax on the beach knowing your kids are having a fun day.
Whether you’re eight or 38 years-old, there truly is something for guests of all ages at Lakepoint State Park. Lakepoint features playgrounds for the kiddos, and is the perfect spot for kid-friendly activities such as swimming, hiking, and fishing. Not to mention, the scenery is simply stunning!
If you want a kid-friendly campsite that is a little more low-key, check out the beautiful Blue Springs State Park. This hidden gem off the beaten path in Clio has long been a site for locals to cool off in the summer. The park has a well-sized playground for younger kids, and has several scenic hiking trails to wander.
]]>Hidden Cove RV Resort is part of the greater Thousand Trails franchise, the largest provider of RV resorts and campgrounds in the country. Hidden Cove is right on the scenic Lewis Smith Lake, giving you water-side access in addition to the many amenities. Amenities include a clubhouse, Wi-Fi, restroom, swimming pool, fishing, boat dock, mini golf, and more. Go for a waterfall hike or an afternoon picnic. Hidden Cove is a hidden gem.
Five miles outside of Gulf Shores, Alabama, you’ll find RV heaven at the Island Retreat RV Park. The park offers solitude from the hustle and bustle of daily life without leaving town too far behind. Amenities include a pool, playground, clubhouse, storage, private showers, laundry, bike paths, and more. Each RV site has full hook-ups, and back-in spots start at $50 a night, with weekly and monthly rates available for longer stays.
Auburn RV Park at Leisure Time Campground is part of Auburn University. All of their sites include full hook-ups with water, sewer, cable, telephone Wi-Fi, 50-amp, 30-amp, and 20-amp services. Visitors enjoy the adjacent softball complex, 18-hole golf course, and Charlotte and Curtis Ward bike trails. Whether you’re tailgating, visiting one of Auburn’s natural parks, or just want a weekend away, Auburn RV Park is not to be overlooked.
Mountain lakes RV Resort is located near the 68,000-acre Guntersville Lake, offering a fantastic view of the water from nearly any site. All sites are pull-through. Amenities include fishing, indoor and outdoor pool access, clubhouse, kid’s recreation room, horseshoes, volleyball, and more. Their event calendar is chock-full of fun activities, including car game night, line dancing lessons, family bingo and snack bar, and many more. Check their website for rates and the full event listing.
Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park is, you guessed it, Yogi Bear themed. Have a Yogi Bear fanatic in the family? Looking for a perfect place to bring your small children on a camping adventure? Yogi Bear’s Jellystone is the answer. Many of the on-site activities are Yogi Bear themed, including flag raising with Yogi, cartoons in the clubhouse, Pictures with Yogi Bear, and more. Other activities include s’more roasting, water wars, and parties at the ranger station. The cost is comparable to other RV parks ranging from $34-42 a night, with the bonus of tailor-made events for children, and a central location for adults.
]]>Breathtaking views like these are best experienced without the blazing sun heating up the rocks. This rock climbing locale also offers hiking trails and camping so you can make a full weekend out of your adventure. Suitable for all skill levels, you’ll want to make this your go-to spot for all things outdoors.
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For those who like to stop and enjoy the scenery, Yellow Creek Falls is a must-visit. It’s a peaceful place with a majestic waterfall, a place to bring your boat, and amazing fall foliage. This place is truly a hidden gem in Alabama’s outdoor scene and no trip to Yellow Creek is complete without stopping here.
One of the best off-road parks in the state, Boggs & Boulders is the ride on the wild side you’ve been searching for. One thousand acres and 160 miles of trails await you, along with a fair share of mud holes, hills, and twists and turns to keep you guessing. They’re a fully loaded facility complete with camping and on-site dining.
Fuel up before (or after) your visit to Boggs & Boulders with a trip to the Surly Mermaid Deli—an experience unlike any other. This mermaid-themed food palace is a treasure trove of delicious eats you won’t find in just any restaurant. The atmosphere is fun, whimsical, and a perfect start or finish to any outdoor adventure.
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Low prices and fall scenery are what makes camping here a real treat when the weather gets cooler. There’s plenty to do for everyone in the family within the park, including a small petting zoo and exotic animals, botanical gardens, a train, and of course Noccalula Falls. No matter what brings you outside, be it hiking, biking, trail running, or watching for wildlife, you’ll find it here.
If you need to grab a fresh pair of hiking boots for your trip to Noccalula Falls Park, there’s no better place to go than the local Trading Post. This place has some of the best names in outdoor living, including Merrell, Keen, and Timberland. They’ve got footwear and outdoor apparel for the whole family here, so stock up before you go on your next camping or hiking adventure.
There’s no shortage of outdoor recreation in Bankhead National Forest, and fall weather makes for an enjoyable visit. There are over 90 miles of trails for hikers to roam, as well as over 13 miles designated for horseback riders. Along the way you can soak in sights like waterfalls, gorges, wildflowers, and plenty of flora and fauna.
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Fall migration is a highly anticipated activity throughout Alabama each year, but Fort Morgan offers rare glimpses of birds you won’t see anywhere else in the state. Head here during late September or October to see hundreds of hawks moving over the fort. You can also check out Alabama’s Rare Bird Alert to stay up to date on birds in the area during this time.
Fall weather makes a great reason to break out the bike for a group ride, and this bicycle association hosts plenty of them. Their calendar stays full of exciting adventures for riders of all skill levels, including visits to Coldwater Mountain. There are different routes for some rides depending on your pace, so you can stay on course and enjoy the experience.
Trying to find activities for everyone in the family can be daunting, leave it to 4D Farm in Cullman County to give you non-stop fun and games! In autumn, 4D puts on the ultimate fall adventure with ziplines, farm animals, pig races, gemstone mining, a cow train, tetherball, and much more. Your little ones won’t be able to sit still! For the rest of the family there is a pumpkin patch and a huge corn maze to get lost in, keeping you entertained for hours!
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Home of the annual Festival of the Cranes, Wheeler was established specifically as a haven for migratory birds and other wildlife. Throughout the refuge are habitats conducive to breeding and roosting for sandhill cranes and wintering waterfowl, with over 300 total bird species calling the refuge home at some point. There are five designated nature trails to utilize for prime wildlife viewing: Atkeson Trail, Beaverdam Swamp Boardwalk Trail, Dancy Bottom Trail, Flint Creek, or the Wildlife Observation Trail. The National Wildlife Refuge created an amazing bird guide (downloadable via their website) that details the various species along with their commonality during each season. Woodpeckers, hummingbirds, and eastern bluebirds are among the most likely to be spotted here.
This site has been dubbed as one of the top four places in the country for spring migration viewing. Featuring over 135 acres of salt marshes, forests, dunes, a lake, and a beach, there are 420 bird species that have been sighted within the sanctuary (for comparison, Alabama as a whole plays home to roughly 445 species). Inside the sanctuary, bird viewers can embark on the three-mile trail system that winds through various habitats to give you the chance to see as many birds as possible. Many of the species visit the sanctuary for food and rest during their migration, and has been touted as “globally important” for migration.
Though much of this refuge is only accessible by boat, the various habitats make it an attractive spot for birds. Its more than 4,000 acres feature lakes, sloughs, hardwoods, and moist areas that both birds and other wildlife call home. Be sure to check their website for a trail map. Most commonly used by wintering waterfowl and wood duck for brooding and roosting, the area has also seen its share of wood storks and bald eagles at times. The refuge provides artificial nesting boxes, and has seen upwards of 10,000 waterfowl during the cooler months.
Though smaller compared to the previously mentioned refuges, this 50-acre botanical garden is an enjoyable attraction for birdwatchers. A paved walking path of nearly three-quarters of a mile takes visitors through a mixed hardwood forest, around the gardens, and near small ponds to give them a variety of bird-viewing areas. Spring and fall migration periods are your best chance to spot birds right now, but efforts continue to build its population of wintering birds, too.
Formerly known as Florala State Park, this beautiful site is situated on Lake Jackson and attracts a myriad of bird species during migratory seasons and winter months. Commonly seen are the northern mockingbird and northern cardinal, as well as thrashers, woodpeckers, orioles, herons, and egrets. Bald eagles have been known to frequent the area, too. The park offers an elevated boardwalk that can take visitors through the canopy over wetlands to spot a variety of bird species.
]]>Likewise, bass fishing is starting to pick up again as the weather begins to cool. Huge schools of threadfin shad are starting to filter away from open-water ledges into bays and tributaries where feeding conditions and water temperatures are more optimum.
Bass follow the food, first setting up on ledges at the mouths of inlets and creeks to waylay shad, then migrating back toward shallower water to keep up with their quarry.
Fall Script for Southern Bass
Bass rule in Dixie and cooler weather brings out an army of anglers who go after them. Whether largemouth, smallmouth or spotted bass, they’re available in most waters and sometimes all three varieties are present in a fishery, ready to aggravate or gratify those who seek them.
Hot Spots To Fish: When it comes to the South’s best lakes for fall fishing, the big TVA impoundments fit the bill. Because this is bass tournament country, dozens of YouTube videos and Facebook sites of pro anglers offer useful advice on where and how to catch autumn largemouths. Likewise, guide services are plentiful; just Google “fishing guides” for the lake you’re visiting or type in the town nearest the lake you wish to fish on the interactive map on this page.
Tackle You’ll Need: A 7-foot medium/heavy rod such as the St. Croix Premier Cranking, a baitcasting reel like the Abu Garcia Revo Winch and 10- to 14-pound-test monofilament makes a good combination to fish downsized lures.
Quick tip: This is strictly a match-the-hatch deal. Use lures that are about the same size as wandering shad. If young-of-the-year threadfins are on the bass menu, try small swim baits fished on drop-shot rigs.
Best Lures/Baits: Shad-colored, shallow- and medium-diving square-billed or coffin-billed crankbaits are autumn standouts. Popular lures include the Strike King 6XD, Bandit 100 or 200, Duo Realis M65, Livetarget Magnum Shad BaitBall Squarebill, Megabass S-Crank, Lucky Craft Squarebill 2.5, Storm Arashi and Rapala Shad Rap.
Fish them around shoreline cover and on the flats between creek drop-offs and the bank. Other fallback baits include spinnerbaits like the Booyah Super Shad, Stanley Vibrashaft and Nichols Pulsator. Good buzzbait options can be found from Lunker Lure, Damiki, Santone and Dirty Jigs.
Find the best fishing spots near you:
Find the best bait and tackle shops near you:
Rendezvous With Redfish
Along the northern Gulf Coast from Carrabelle, FL, to Grand Isle, LA, the redfish season begins in late September and continues in stages through December. Some anglers fish in the surf with cut bait, while others station themselves on area piers or in boats on relatively shallow flats near channel cuts.
Hot Spots To Fish: For boating anglers, a couple of spots stick out. Pensacola Bay Pass is a must-fish for boaters. Anchor up on the broad flat between old Fort Pickens and the channel, set out lines as the tide changes to incoming, and hang on. Need more help? Redfish University Pensacola Fishing Charters (850-748-4368, redfishuniversity.com) specializes in the big drum.
At Grand Isle, LA, book a trip with Gotta Go Fishing Charters (225-921-3642, gottagofishingcharters.com). The marshes and inshore waters around Venice, LA, are primo redfish haunts as well. Captain Mike Frenette (504-782-0924, laredfish.com or ([email protected]) is a top guide here.
Tackle You’ll Need: “Rat” reds of 3 pounds and up, or real bruisers weighing in excess of 20 pounds require a range of tackle options. Bass fishing tackle – whether spinning or baitcasting – is perfect for handling smaller fish and for casting jigs or swimbaits that weigh less than an ounce. A Shimano Stradic spinning reel and 7-foot medium-action Shimano Compre rod with 14-pound-test monofilament.
For bigger fish, consider a Penn Battle II BTLII5000 with 20-pound-test monofilament or 40-pound-test braid, and a 30-pound-test fluorocarbon leader. A 7-foot medium-heavy spinning rod (such as the Penn Battalion BATIN1220S70) should handle any bait rigs or lures and wear down a bull redfish in short order.
Quick Tip: Incoming tides in late evening or at night are primo times for reds as the fish free-spawn then in the mouths of coastal bays and estuaries. If you can’t fish any other time, make sure you fish the incoming tides.
Best Lures/Baits: Redfish aren’t particular about their dietary requirements and will eat anything from blue crabs to halved mullet. Swimming spoons such as the Johnson Sprite (johnsonfishing.com), swimbaits and jigs or even topwater poppers, such as the Heddon Saltwater Spook, will elicit strikes.
Related articles that may interest you:
Fish Here This Fall—5 Reel-Screaming Adventures
How to Choose the Best Times to Fish
Located in the heart of Alabama, Rickwood Caverns State Park is a truly unexpected find. Entry to the park is just $3, with swimming and trips inside the cavern available a la carte. The cave is the main focal point of the park and has set a theme throughout its ground, with activities like gem mining and geocaching abounding. There’s a little something for every age and preference here, whether you’re an avid camper or hiker or simply like to be surrounded by nature every once in a while.
This short one-mile loop is a must-do if you’re visiting Rickwood Caverns State Park. The easy-to-moderate trail winds its way through forests and past beautiful rock formations. Look closely and you’ll see where the trail gets its name—seashell and leaf imprints are often visible on the rock surfaces.
Most folks come here to see the caverns, and for good reason: they’re simply breathtaking. The rock formations within the giant cave were created more than 260 million years ago. The cave maintains a comfortable 58-62 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, making it the perfect spot to warm up in the winter or cool off in the summer while you trek 175 feet below ground. Cave tours are $17 for adults and $8 for children ages five to 12.
If you’re looking to make the most of your visit, consider extending your stay by camping on site. You can bring an RV or trailer, or rough it the traditional way with a tent. Campsites offer access to 24-hour security, as well as restrooms and a dump station. As a camper, you can get a discounted rate to the caverns.
While you’re in the area, explore some of the fun sights and activities outside of the state park. The Birmingham Zoo is only a 40-minute drive away, and displays over 800 animals. They’re open year-round and feature plenty of side activities for guests of all ages, including the zoo train, animal feedings, behind the scenes tours, slide, and zip-lining.
This peaceful park is a gem in the bustling big city. Nestled along the water, the park is mostly used for recreation and events. It was constructed to help preserve some of the city’s heritage, and even reuses some of the rocks unearthed during the park’s development as seating and walls. Highlights include a skating area, .75-mile trail, playground, and outdoor gym equipment.
Extend your nature-based fun with a trip to Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Over 65 acres are filled with beautiful blooms in thematic gardens, along with pristine landscaping and the beloved Moon Tree. You can explore the indoor Garden Center or conservatory for more information on the plant life in the gardens.
For barbecue that will honestly make you soul sing, check out SAW’s Soul Kitchen. There’s nothing like a little barbecue to fill you up and help you refuel. SAW’s specialties include SAW’s Sampler with pork, chicken, three wings, and one side, and SAW’s Original Pulled Pork.
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Sun Wall features some of the highest rated climbing routes in the state—over 20 to choose from! The Dreamscape route offers its own set of challenges, and is a favorite among visitors. The majority of the routes here are sport, but there are a fair few trad climbs for those who like to fix their own anchors. Peak climbing season here is in April, with significantly fewer visitors during July and August (but be warned, the summer heat can be unforgiving).
Harvest Wall is a prime trad destination for the not-so-beginners and not-quite-experts. Pass by White Wall and look for a column leaning against the main wall, and you’ll have found Harvest Wall. Climbers can choose from eight trad routes, some of which are among the tallest lines in the area. If you have to choose, opt for the Yum Yum Tree or Pumpkin Patch routes, both of which come highly recommended from local climbers.
Touted as one of the best bouldering sites in the country, Horse Pens 40 is a private outdoor nature park situated on Chandler Mountain, one of the state’s highest mountains. Most frequently visited in November, guests can enjoy a less busy climb in late summer/early fall. The Stranger provides a fun problem that keeps you moving with relatively low difficulty. Overall, it’s a fun, unique, challenging spot that climbers of all experience levels will find pleasing.
This massive freestanding rock formation combines some of the best sports and trad lines in the state. With over a dozen routes to choose from, climbers have shown particular appeal to Gravy Train, Pigs in Zen, and My Dog Has Fleas. Climbers of all skill levels will find something here to challenge their abilities.
If you’re looking for an bouldering experience or quick climb in your free time, head to Rainbow Mountain. It’s full of easy climbs that are ideal for beginners. Best of all, it’s quiet, peaceful, and out of the way so you can enjoy your surroundings and focus on your climbing skills.
]]>At Oak Mountain State Park, you’ll have 25 miles of beautiful fall foliage to keep you company on your travels. Head to the North trailhead, where you can embark on White, Blue, or Yellow trails. The White Trail will take you to the park’s highest elevation point, where you can get a glimpse of the gorgeous fall colors from above. Or, head to the Green Trail that begins near the park office on Terrace Drive, and make your way to Peavine Falls to get a photo-worthy look at the waterfalls framed by the changing leaves.
This charming covered bridge has been the central focus of the park built around it since 1904. The original bridge was destroyed by a storm in 1975, but restoration efforts including salvaging material of the bridge for reconstruction, hiking trails, picnic space, cabins, and other structures has since strengthened the site. It’s now considered one of the best spots in the state to soak in the rich fall foliage.
This popular place for fall hiking has its own designated spot on the state’s “fall color trail” guide. Guests here can make their way along the Warpath Ridge Trailway that overlooks the Tennessee Valley for the best fall foliage views. However, these views come at a steep price, and should only be attempted by experienced or physically fit hikers. If you’d rather stick to a simpler hike, the park offers 22 miles of hiking and biking trails, including the easy 2.9-mile Bucca Family Trail.
Another designated area on Alabama’s “fall color trail” guide, Lake Guntersville State Park features over 36 miles of moderate-to-difficult trails that hikers, bikers, and horseback riders will love. King’s Chapel, Butler’s Pass, Lickskillet, and Cascade Trails offer plenty of surprises, such as graveyards, overlooks, waterfalls or wildflowers, but each one will let you enjoy Mother Nature’s beautiful fall color scheme.
There’s plenty of river, waterfalls, and ridges to explore as you enjoy the fall foliage at Desoto State Park. Make it a day trip or stay the whole weekend in one of their cabins. People of all ages and skill levels can take a stroll along the Talmadge Butler Boardwalk Trail that leads 360 yards into the forest and ends at an observation deck overlooking the Azalea Cascade pool. For the most colorful fall views, head to Little River Canyon, just 10 miles south of the state park, where you can traverse the 100-foot boardwalk that leads to the perfect viewing spot for the foliage.
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