Vacationing on Alabama’s Gulf Coast this year? I’m all in on long days spent reading and sunning on the sugar-white sand with the occasional dip in the warm waters of the gulf. But, if you’d like to venture off the beach, consider experiencing the area differently by hiking, pedaling, or paddling – activities that offer a chance to see the area – and nature – at a slower pace.
HIKE:
The Bon Secour Wildlife Refuge offers six miles of trails and is only ten miles west of the Gulf Shores Public Beach. Meander through maritime forests and wetlands teeming with wildlife and wildflowers. Don’t miss Gator Lake and Little Lagoon.
PEDAL:
With over 25 miles of paved trails and boardwalks, you’ll be hard-pressed to see it all on the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trails at the Gulf State Park. Forgot your bike? No worries! New this year is a bike-sharing program at Gulf State Park. Rental stations are scattered throughout the park, and the first three hours are free. Take a spin through the twenty-six miles of trails on one of the easy-to-ride cruisers – the options are endless. It is important to note that each rider will have to download an app on their phone to use a bike. Helmets are not provided.
Suitable for biking, hiking, running, and strolling, these trails will not disappoint. Perfect for all ages, but families with young children will appreciate that the trails are close to motorized vehicles.
PADDLE:
There are plenty of places to paddle, and many rentals are available right on the beach. But I encourage you to venture off into some of the backwaters. A highlight of a recent trip was a paddle tour on Oyster Bay. Gliding through the water on tandem kayaks provided by Wild Nature Tours, we crossed the Intracoastal Waterway to see dolphins, herons, osprey, and the most incredible sunset.
Traveling under your own power- slow travel – allows you to connect to the destination better. You’ll meet more locals, have authentic experiences more often, and learn more about the history and culture of your destination. A bonus is that it is the most eco-friendly way to experience a new place.
As always, thanks for reading! XOXO
Check out my new book Stuff I Wish I Knew Before I Went Hiking: Tales and a Few Fails From the Trail.
