5 stunning Tuscaloosa hiking trails we love

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When you think of Tuscaloosa, college football may be the first thing that comes to mind. It did for me. But when I explored the city, I was shocked to find this Roll-Tide town is filled with stunning cliffs, glistening lakes and fairytale wooded areas—all just a short drive from its bustling downtown. If you love being outdoors, read on for five of our favorite hiking spots in T-Town.

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1. Lake Nicol

Lake Nicol in Tuscaloosa. (Bham Now)

First stop: Lake Nicol (yep, like the coin). This glistening, peaceful lake is nestled in the Tuscaloosa woods. Here you’ll be ensconced in beautiful woods carved with gorgeous hiking trails.

If you prefer flatter land, you can enjoy all sorts of lake-friendly activities like fishing and kayaking. Seeking an adventure? Follow the steep, rocky trail as it leads you up to incredible views overlooking the lake.

Lake Nicol details

• Location: Lake Nicol Rd, Tuscaloosa, AL 35406
• Distance from downtown Tuscaloosa: 20-minute drive
• Trail distance: 1.1 miles

2. Lake Harris North Dam

Lake Harris North Dam in Tuscaloosa. (Bham Now)

Out of the five trails in this list, this one might be my favorite. When I say the lake views were stunning, that’s not just a cliche. When my friends and I reached the top of the Lake Harris North Dam trail, the sun shining off the sparkling blue water surrounded by endless lush left us speechless.

Continuing on the trail, we found a pretty deck with benches set up for lakeside conversations. The lower part of the deck jutted out over the water, making for a relaxing outlook.

Lake Harris North Dam details

• Location: Lake Harris Rd, Tuscaloosa, AL 35406
• Distance from downtown Tuscaloosa: 25-minute drive
• Trail distance: 1.4 miles

3. Munny Sokol Park

Hiking and frisbee at Munny Sokol Park. (Bham Now)

If you’re looking for a spot where you can enjoy wide-open spaces as well as woodsy trails, head to Munny Sokol. Before venturing onto the trails, we enjoyed some sunshine, frisbee and football.

If you have a bike that can handle off-road terrain, bring it along for a ride along a 2.2-mile wooded path. If you have kids, this park-and-trail combo (with a playground!) will have them entertained for hours.

Munny Sokol details

• Location: 5901 Watermelon Rd, Northport, AL 35473
• Distance from downtown Tuscaloosa: 10-minute drive
• Trail distance: 2.2 miles

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4. The University of Alabama Arboretum

The University of Alabama Arboretum is such a fun spot in Tuscaloosa. (Bham Now)

The University of Alabama Arboretum is a nature lover’s dream, with its native woodland section, ornamental plant collection and wildflower, experimental and children’s gardens. With 12+ miles of trails, it offers a “choose-your-own-adventure” experience for hikers, walkers and runners.

Personally, I loved the greenhouse area by the pavilion. It had a whimsical feel and made for a great photo op.

Arboretum details

• Location: 4801 Arboretum Way, Tuscaloosa, AL 35404
• Distance from downtown Tuscaloosa: 12-minute drive
• Trail distance: 12+ miles of trails total

5. Hurricane Creek Park

Hurricane Creek Park is a fabulous hike with rewarding waterfront sights. (Bham Now)

Hurricane Creek Park’s rushing waters are the refreshing reward along its 3.1-mile loop. The narrow trails lined with pine trees have some inclines, making for a hefty hike. However, you can recharge on the creek bank, where there are plenty of flat rocks and sandy areas to grab a picnic and enjoy the views.

Hurricane Creek details

• Location: 7005 Old Birmingham Hwy, Tuscaloosa, AL 35404
• Distance from downtown Tuscaloosa: 10-minute drive
• Approach Trail + North Loop distance: 3.1 miles

Want to explore more of Tuscaloosa? Check out Visit Tuscaloosa.

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