By Sofia Baltz
With spring right around the corner, now is the perfect time to explore some of the trails Birmingham has to offer. Whether you want an easy walk or a more rigorous hike, there are plenty of options.
Railroad Park
This popular park offers an amazing urban trail and it’s only an 8-minute walk from campus (a 2-minute drive!). Equipped with a large lake and 9 acres of open lawn, this is an ideal spot for a quick walk and picnic. Bonus points: afterward, you can enjoy a sweet treat from Red Cat Coffee House!
Red Mountain Park
This historical park has 16 miles of trails within 1,500 acres of woods. There are dozens of paths to choose from, all ranging in difficulty. If hiking isn’t your style, the park itself is large—and pet-friendly! You can also learn about the history of Red Mountain with their TravelStorys app. Overall, this park has everything you need for a pleasant day outside. Plus, it’s only an 11-minute drive from campus!
Rotary Trail
Looking for a more urbanized trail? This one is for you! Located in the heart of downtown under the iconic Magic City sign, this path is only half a mile. Near its western end, it takes you right to Railroad Park. It’s a 4-minute drive or a 15-minute walk from campus.
Vulcan Trail
At 2.28 miles, this trail offers multiple options for casual hikers. There are paved paths ideal for bikers, walkers and runners, as well as gravel paths for a more natural setting. The route is mostly flat and shaded by the tree canopy, but still featuring breathtaking views of the city. The eastern end is located by Vulcan Park where the iconic cast-iron statue sits. Here, you can get your history and steps in— and it’s only a 5-minute drive away!
Oak Mountain State Park
This is Alabama’s largest state park with 11,861 acres, and it has over 100 miles of trails. There are a plethora of activities to choose from, including two lakeside beaches, geocaching and even an enchanted fairy house garden! Located in Pelham, it’s a 17-minute drive from campus—with all they have to offer, it’s worth it!
