Jemison Park in Mountain Brook. (Samantha Moats / Bham Now)

Looking to enjoy the great outdoors without breaking a sweat? You don’t have to look far—there are plenty of parks in Birmingham with ample shade. Check it out!

1. Ruffner Mountain | Birmingham

Located near the historic South East Lake neighborhood, Ruffner Mountain is a 1,038-acre nature preserve full of walking trails, long-abandoned ore crushers from mining sites and gorgeous overlooks. Best of all? Most of the trails are protected by shady tree canopies.

BONUS: Be sure to check out the Ruffner Mountain Nature Center to see and learn more about Alabama’s native wildlife, including owls, turtles and snakes!

Ruffner Mountain: 205.833.8264 | Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
Location: 1214 81st St S, Birmingham, AL 35206

2. Red Mountain Park | Birmingham

Red Mountain Park 5 — Have you been on this suspension bridge in Red Mountain Park? (Matthew Niblett / Bham Now)

Did you know Red Mountain Park has 16 miles of multi-use trails? Whether you’re going for a hike, taking your four-legged friend out for a walk or zooming by on a mountain bike, Red Mountain Park has something for everyone.

The 1,500-acre urban park was once home to a series of iron ore mines, so you can still see the remnants of Birmingham’s mining history at Red Mountain Park.

Red Mountain Park: 205.202.6043 | Website | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook
Location: 2011 Frankfurt Dr, Birmingham, AL 35211

3. Jemison Park | Mountain Brook

Nestled along Shades Creek in Mountain Brook, Jemison Park is a 54-acre park perfect for picnicking, exercising and just enjoying the sounds of nature. With ample shade, Jemison Park is a favorite for Mountain Brook residents and visitors alike.

Jemison Park: Website
Location: 2615 Mountain Brook Parkway, Mountain Brook, AL 35226

4. McCallum Park | Vestavia Hills

One of the hidden gems of Vestavia Hills, McCallum Park is the perfect place for a hike on a hot summer day. Inside the park you’ll find covered pavilions with tables (perfect for a family picnic), shaded walking trails and open green spaces. Plus, the park is pet friendly—just remember to keep your pup on a leash!

McCallum Park: 205.978.0166
Location: 3332 Rosemary Ln, Vestavia Hills, AL 35216

5. Triangle Park | Birmingham

Located in the residential neighborhood of Forest Park, Triangle Park is a small (less than an acre) family-friendly park with a playground and a shaded picnic area. Although it is located next to neighborhood streets, the park is fenced in—making it perfect for families with small children.