7 nature events in Birmingham to kick off your 2023

Is your new year’s resolution to go outside more? Maybe you got a bird feeder for Christmas (like me!) and you want to learn about the unique art of birding. Birmingham is one of the best places to go out and explore nature from the botanical gardens to the dozens of parks. Keep reading for four nature events that we can’t wait to try out this winter.

1. Winter birding classes | Hoover Library

Back by popular demand, Greg Harber from Alabama Audubon will be hosting two different winter birding nature events at the Hoover Library. The first session will be all about winter water birds found in surrounding refuges and lakes while the second session will focus on winter finches and songbirds found at feeders. This is a great class for those interested in learning more about birding and to prepare you on what to look for.

• Location: Hoover Public Library | 200 Municipal Dr, Hoover, AL, 35216
• Hours: Tuesday, January 10, 6-7:30PM | Tuesday, January 17, 6-7:30PM
• Website | Facebook | Instagram

2. Nature at Noon | Birmingham Botanical Gardens

Formerly known as Gosse Nature Walks, Nature at Noon is back for 2023. The first walk will be at Birmingham Botanical Gardens, led by Scot Duncan, a lifelong birder and conservation scientist.

This recurring nature event is the perfect activity for those who want to go outside and see Birmingham birds and nature but only have a limited time to do so. See the native winter birds such as golden-crowned kinglets and white-throated sparrows on your lunch break.

There will be binoculars provided for the walk and beginners are welcomed!

• Location: Birmingham Botanical Gardens | 2612 Lane Park Rd, Birmingham, AL 35223
• Hours: Friday, January 13 | Noon-1PM
• Cost: Free | Register here
• Website | Facebook | Instagram

3. Sunrise Hike to King’s Chair

Start 2023 with gorgeous views at King’s Chair in Oak Mountain State Park. Led by park naturalists and OMSP partner extraordinaire Zach Andrews, there is no better way to explore nature in Birmingham. Here’s what you should bring:

• Camera
• Flashlight
• Hiking pole/stick
• Snacks
• Water

NOTE: This hike is open to all ages but is considered an intermediate to advanced hike and is not stroller friendly.

• Location: Oak Mountain State Park | North Trailhead
• Hours: Sunday, January 1 | 5:30AM
• Cost: $5 park entry fee for 12+
• Website | Facebook | Instagram

4. Freshwater Land Trust + Cahaba Brewing run group

Every Wednesday at 6pm (weather-permitting), Freshwater Land Trust hosts a run club along Hugh Kaul Trail. Join them for a 2- to 4- mile run or walk along the trail. All paces are welcome. Stay for a Cahaba beverage or bite from The Current food truck afterwards, or pick up some bingo cards for Cahaba’s Goodwill Night Bingo at 7PM.

• Location: Cahaba Brewing Co. | 4500 5th Ave S Building C, Birmingham, AL 35222
• Hours: Every Wednesday | 6PM
• Website | Facebook | Instagram

5. Forest Bathing in Bankhead National Forest

If you are willing to travel north a little bit, visiting Bankhead National Forest is a must. Hosted by Wild Alabama, forest bathing is a meditative 1.25-mile hike that allows you to focus on your senses and rest within the beauty of nature. Wild Alabama recommends bringing a pen and sketchbook to document what you see and how you feel.

• Location: Bankhead National Forest | 1070 AL-33, Double Springs, AL 35553
• Hours: Saturday, January 23 | 9:30AM-3PM
• Cost: Free | Email janice@wildal.org to sign up
• Website | Facebook | Instagram

6. Birmingham cleanup with Black Warrior Riverkeeper

Looking for a way to get outside and serve the Birmingham community on MLK day in 2023? Alabama Rivers is teaming up with Black Warrior Riverkeeper to host a Birmingham cleanup. Meet fellow Birminghamians and keep our city clean from waste while enjoying the winter breeze.

• Location: 700 23rd Ave NW, Center Point, AL 35215
• Hours: Monday, January 16 | 9AM-noon
• Website | Facebook | Instagram

BONUS: Watch the 2021 Southern Exposure Film

Not a fan of this frigid weather? Invite some friends and family over to watch the 2021 Southern Exposure film. This film consists of four shorts that explore the nature, conservation and preservation of Alabama.

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