Best Hikes around Birmingham

Birmingham, Alabama is nestled at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. The abundance of natural beauty and protected green spaces in the area is a treat to residents and tourists alike. Not only do we have one of the largest nature preserves in the country here, we also have a rich history of iron and steel production, the remains of which can be seen today at many of our parks.

All of the trails we recommend are suitable for children and dogs are welcome on the trail when leashed. Most locations ask for a modest donation or park entry fee

Lace up your hiking boots, bring plenty of water (and bug spray), and hit the trail at these great spots around the Magic City!

Oak Mountain State Park

Oak Mountain is the largest state park in Alabama and has something for everyone. Park features include hiking, swimming, camping, golf, horseback riding, cycling, and more. The park features 25 miles of hiking trails that range from easy to difficult. An easy hike for all skill levels starts at the North Trailhead following the White or Yellow trail to Maggie’s Glen, a picturesque stream bank. If you’re looking for something more challenging, take the blue trail up to King’s Chair and the Eagle’s Nest Overlook for beautiful views.

View the trail map here.

Moss Rock Preserve

Located adjacent to The Preserve subdivision in Hoover, Moss Rock is a beautiful 349-acre nature preserve great for walking, hiking, and rock climbing. Most of the trails are easy to moderate length and difficulty. Many trails follow Hurricane Creek, which runs through the lower elevation of the area. Take the white trail down to follow along creekside or take the blue trail to check out the sandstone glade and other falls. Moss Rock is home to four rare species of plants and a rare type of Little River Canyon Sandstone Glade that is thought to be one of only 35 found on Earth. Don’t miss the boulder field and rock formations.

View the trail map here.

Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve

Ruffner is a true gem less than 10 minutes from downtown Birmingham. It is one of the largest urban nature reserves in the United States. These trails are built for walking, hiking and running. There are a variety of easy and difficult trails varying in length throughout the area. For a challenging trail with great views, check out the Ridge and Valley Trail, a difficult trail that goes through 1,000 feet of elevation change over the course of 1.7 miles. For an easier walk, take the Quarry Trail (1.2 miles, moderate) to the Crusher Trail (0.7 miles, moderate) to see a large iron ore rock crusher used during Ruffner’s mining years.

View the trail map here.

Red Mountain Park

Red Mountain Park is a great place to run, walk, hike or mountain bike. Experience some of the rich industrial history Birmingham has to offer by checking out the remnants of the old mines and the Redding hoist house. The overlooks offer incredible views of Birmingham that change with the seasons. We recommend checking out the Ishkooda Trail, which features a treehouse and skybridge. Bring Fido! Red Mountain Park is also home to Remy’s dog park, one of the largest dog parks in Alabama. Join in on one of the monthly guided hikes to learn more about the history of the park.

View the trail map here.

Tannehill State Park

Tannehill State Park is located half an hour from downtown Birmingham. The park features restored pioneer cabins, a cotton gin, furnaces and an operational gristmill in addition to naturally stunning trails. Many of the trails are wide, gravel pathways that are easily accessible to walkers and hikers. We recommend all of the trails, which in total is about a five-mile easy walk with little elevation change. Be sure to take a look at the furnace area, which is on the northeastern edge of the park.

View the trail map here.

Want to learn more about outdoor activities around Birmingham, Alabama? Check out our community pages or reach out to an ARC agent.