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What to expect

Alabama has 486 trails including medium, easy, and extra difficult trails. The trail with the highest elevation climb is the Gopher Tortoise and Bear Creek Trail and the one with the least climb is the Great Eastern Trail (Incomplete). The longest trail is Great Eastern Trail (Incomplete) at 1930 km. To complete this hike you should budget at least 105 days. For a shorter adventure, you can try the Cave Trail a t 247 m. This could be done in as little as 1 days. Trails with the best offering of hostels include The Pinnacle - White Trail, King's Chair Overlook,Blue and Red Road Loop, Sicard Hollow Athletic Loop, Iron Legs Loop, and Point Mallard Walking Trail.

Guide to hiking in Alabama

Be prepared for hiking in Alabama with the HiiKER app

FAQs about hiking in Alabama

What is the climate like for hiking in Alabama?

Alabama, located in the southeastern U.S., enjoys a subtropical climate. Winter (December to February) is relatively mild, but colder in the Appalachian foothills, which may affect high-altitude hikes.
Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are pleasant, offering ideal hiking conditions with moderate temperatures and lower humidity. Summer (June to August) can be hot and humid, potentially making hiking more strenuous.
Generally, spring and fall are the best times to hike. Weather conditions can change rapidly, so check forecasts before hiking. Visit https://www.weather.gov/wrh/Climate?wfo=hun for trail information.


Do I need a permit to hike in Alabama?

Most hiking trails in Alabama don't require permits, although some parks may charge entry fees. For longer stays or specific activities like overnight backpacking, permits might be required. Always check with individual parks or the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (https://www.fs.usda.gov/main/alabama/passes-permits).


Is wild camping allowed in Alabama?

Wild camping in Alabama is generally allowed in designated areas within state and national forests with potential restrictions. It's recommended to check with the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (www.outdooralabama.com) or the US Forest Service for specific areas' https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5441341.pdf regulations before planning your trip.


Are there mountain rescue services in Alabama?

In case of emergencies while hiking in Alabama, dial 911. The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency is responsible for coordinating search and rescue operations. It's vital to carry essential safety gear and inform someone about your hiking plans. More safety information is available at https://alsar.gov/.


Are there dangerous plants in Alabama?

Alabama's diverse terrain hosts a range of flora, from pine forests in uplands to cypress swamps in the coastal plain. Wildflowers bloom in spring, but hikers should be aware of plants like poison ivy. For information about local flora, visit the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (www.outdooralabama.com) and http://floraofalabama.org/.


What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in Alabama?

Alabama's rich biodiversity includes deer, bobcats, and numerous bird species. Hikers may also encounter insects like mosquitoes and ticks, particularly in warmer months, so appropriate protection is advised. For wildlife viewing guidelines and safety information, consult the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (www.outdooralabama.com) and https://www.fws.gov/partner/alabama-department-conservation-and-natural-resources.