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Your local gift guide for the outdoor enthusiast in Birmingham
Time to go exploring. Sometimes it’s hard to find good gifts for the person who would rather be outside and on-the-go, but finding the perfect gift doesn’t have to be a trek. Here are five local spots to visit to get that perfect item for the outdoor enthusiast in your life, including experiential ideas.
Grab the perfect item…
1. Mark’s Outdoors
What to shop
Consider Mark’s Outdoors a one-stop-shop for hunting season. From top-notch outerwear and footwear to must-have hunting accessories and a large inventory of used guns, Mark’s has what you need for the person in your life who loves to hunt.
2. Mountain High Outfitters
What to shop
Who said outdoor apparel can’t be fashionable too? Mountain High Outfitters has the latest styles in women and men’s brand named clothing. May I suggest a pair of On Cloud shoes because no matter what terrain, they make you feel like you’re walking on air.
- Location: Find the nearest location.
- Website | Facebook | Instagram
3. Alabama Outdoors
What to shop
Alabama Outdoors is an easy choice for gift shopping for the outdoorsy person in your life, but you’ll probably leave with a gift of your own. With brands like Patagonia, North Face, Sorel and so many more, you can get something for everyone in the family. Oh, and let’s not forget their awesome selection of gear for climbers, hikers, runners, campers and everything in between.
- Location: Find the nearest location.
- Website | Facebook | Instagram
4. The Yak Shak
What to shop
Do you know someone who would rather be on the water than on land? The Yak Shak offers kayaks, apparel and even kayak rentals year-round. Personally, I prefer to spend time on solid ground, but the Yak Shak makes me feel like I’m missing out on some awesome water adventures that I’m going to add to my bucket list ASAP.
5. Caliber
Caliber isn’t just your ordinary outdoor store for fishing and hunting. They specialize in high-end specialty products with a classy atmosphere. They cater to upland bird, deer and turkey hunting, but if that’s not your preferred outdoor activity, they also offer a wide variety of lifestyle apparel, including Alabama brands.
…or give the gift of an adventure
1. Go chasing waterfalls around Birmingham
Sorry TLC! Adventure calls and it involves chasing waterfalls. There are several waterfalls scattered around Alabama. It’s the perfect excuse to enjoy some time outdoors and maybe even get an epic Instagram pic. Sometimes experiences like these are even better than a physical gift. However, there are some great items that you can snag from a local store to make this experience even better.
Items to bring:
- Water bottle to stay hydrated.
- Hiking shoes because those Converse just aren’t going to cut it.
- Waterproof backpack because where else are you going to keep your snacks?
2. Take a trip out to Oak Mountain
Peavine Falls Rd in Oak Mountain State Park. Photo via Bham Now 
Peavine Falls at Oak Mountain State Park. Photo from Outdoor Alabama
Sometimes it’s easy to forget that we live near one of the most beautiful state parks in the Southeast. My friends and I went to Oak Mountain State Park to check out the fall foliage and the views are unbelievable. Even if you miss the bursting colors, there are tons of activities to enjoy including mountain biking, hiking, horseback riding, golf and more.
Items to bring:
- ENO hammock when you just want to take things slow and ~hang out~ (pun intended).
- A cooler packed with your favorite snacks + drinks.
- A lightweight camping chair when you need to take a break.
3. Grab your circle and hit the road
For some of us, quarantine has taught us to appreciate the outdoors a bit more. After all, when your home becomes your office, every step outside of the same four walls feels like an escape.
On the other side of things, some of us are itching for a getaway. Luckily, you can still hit the road while staying safe. RV rentals and sales have been soaring for obvious reasons—people want an adventure. We’re talking solar fueled, wifi-enabled, sleek modern designed vehicles that’ll get you from point A to point B in style and comfort.
I didn’t choose the van life. The van life chose me. Photo via Gearbox Rental’s Facebook. 
Let’s hit the road. Via Storyteller Overland’s Facebook 
Hit the road. Photo via Storyteller Overland’s Facebook
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For more ideas, check out our Birmingham holiday gift guide + follow us on social for awesome giveaways that’ll make for the perfect gifts.
