Reviewed by: Patience Itson
Beat the heat in these 5 shaded parks in Birmingham
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
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.
What is your favorite shaded park in Birmingham? Tag us @bhamnow to let us know!
