Reviewed by: Selah Vetter
13 hiking + walking trails in Birmingham to explore
Reading time: 5 minutes

As the summer winds down and the days get shorter, youโll want to make use of these great walking and hiking options in our city. We gathered 13 of our favorite trails in Birmingham for you to clear you to get outside and enjoy this season.
1. Moss Rock Preserve

For outdoor lovers who want a nice spot to practice rock climbing, Moss Rock Preserve is where itโs at! All different skill levels and passionate climbers can try out the rocks here. As a novice rock climber, this preserve has become one of my top trails in Birmingham.
- Location: 617 Preserve Way, Hoover, AL 35226
2. Red Mountain Park

Red Mountain Park has the best of all works. History lovers will swoon from the knowledge that his park is one of the largest archaeological sites in the nation. Plus, there are dog park and remarkable hiking spots.
- Location: 2011 Frankfurt Dr, Birmingham, AL 35211
3. Hugh Kaul Trail

Welcome the newest addition to trails in Birmingham: Hugh Kaul Trail. In April, Freshwater Land Trust opened the first section of the trail to the public. This walkable trail connects Avondale to the Rotary Trail, making our city more walkableโa plus for fans of alternative transportation. The next section from 34th Street to Avondaleโs 41st Street is currently under construction.
- Location: 3501 1st Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35222
4. Ruffner Mountain

If you havenโt hiked at Ruffner Mountain, youโll want to check out the shady trails on this 1,038-acre nature preserve. For history lovers, youโll enjoy the long-abandoned ore crushers from mining sites found on the mountain.
- Location: 1214 81st St S, Birmingham, AL 35206
5. Aldridge Gardens
Aldrige Gardens earns the title of having some of the best family-safe trails in Birmingham. Did you know that these gardens were the former property of famed horticulturalist Eddie Aldridge and his wife, Kay? Trust us when we say these views are captivatingly gorgeous.
- Location: 3530 Lorna Rd, Hoover, AL 35216
6. Oak Mountain State Park

Oak Mountain State Park is home to multiple trails that have jaw-dropping beautiful sights. From waterfalls to wildlife, unplug and spend an entire day hiking on these stunning trails in Birmingham.
If youโre looking for a climb, Kingโs Chair has become known for gorgeous views of Birmingham.
- Location: 200 Terrace Dr, Pelham, AL 35124
7. Rotary Trail

Home to the famous Magic City sign, the Rotary Trail is a nice outdoor escape from the bustling city. Follow the trail down 1st Ave South to get a unique view of Birmingham.
- Location: 2098 1st Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35233
8. Railroad Park

If youโre looking for an urban trail with amazing views of Birminghamโs skyline AND with scenic water sights, then walk on Railroad Parkโs 2000-step trail. Youโll get those steps in while taking in gorgeous city views. Donโt forget to try one of Birminghamโs beloved coffee spots, Red Cat, located at Railroad.
- Location: 1600 1st Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35233
9. Crestwood Park
Located in between North and South Crestwood, this park has a jogging track around a green field, tennis courts and a swimming pool off to the side. Itโs the perfect spot for kicking a ball around or simply clearing your mind on a short walk.
10. Avondale Park

If you havenโt heard, thereโs a new Miss Fancy statue coming to Avondale Park. Add this trail to your daily routine, so you can see the progress of Miss Fancyโs installation.
- Location: 4101 5th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35222
11. Jemison Park

Enjoy the hills of Moutain Brook with sweeping views of Alabamaโs beautiful scenery from creeks, birds and foliage. While walking, youโll also pass the dog park designed by a talented boy scout for the community.
12. Vulcan Park & Trail
Vulcan is definitely one of the most iconic trials in Birmingham. At Vulcan Park, youโll find stunning views of the city, in addition to Birmingham history at the Vulcan Museum.
Youโll be glad to hear that there are also sensory-safe spots for people who might be overwhelmed by loud sounds or the outdoors in general.
13. CityWalk BHAM

As far as walking trails in Birmingham go, CityWalk has it all. You can stroll down the 1/4-mile walking trail, rest on the luscious turf or grab a board and skate at Birminghamโs very own skating park. Iโm one of many that have been waiting for a skate park in Birmingham and now we finally have one at CityWalk.
- Location: 4100 Altamont Rd, Birmingham, AL, 35213
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