Reviewed by: Cindy Hatcher
5 hiking spots in Birmingham + what you need in your bag
Reading time: 4 minutes
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A few days ago, my teammates Grace, Nathan and I loaded up the car to Red Mountain Park for a hike. But only after we took days to agree on a spot. There are so many beautiful places to hike in Birmingham!
I know what you’re thinking: August in Birmingham is wayyy too hot for a hike. And you’d be right. But here’s the good news: We had something to keep us well hydrated.
Now I’m here to give you a few of our favorite hiking spots in Birmingham—and what we recommend bringing along.
First things first: Grab your hiking essentials
No one wants to take a day hike without food, water and some sun protection—especially during a Birmingham summer. So it’s important to make sure your hiking essentials list is checked twice.
Here are a few of my can’t-miss items:
- Sunscreen, a hat + sunglasses
- Nutritious + energizing snacks
- Lots of water + electrolytes
I was super thoughtful and packed Grace and Nathan some peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for our adventure. We paired it with pretzels and our favorite protein bars for some extra energy.
And the icing on top: Our friends at Coca-Cola Bottling Company UNITED hooked us up with a few bottles of the BodyArmor Flash I.V. This “rapid rehydration,” complete with 2,290 mg of electrolytes, is a new go-to for us.
Our favorite flavors:
- Callie: Tropical Punch
- Grace: Strawberry Kiwi
- Nathan: Grape
Check out the new BodyArmor + more Coca-Cola classics.
Where to hike around Birmingham
1. Red Mountain Park
Grace, Nathan and I tackled the Eureka Mines Trail last week, and I already want to go back!
This is one of the many trails at Red Mountain Park that takes you past historic mines, beautiful views and fun bridges.
2. Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve
With over 1,000 acres of beautiful, biodiverse forests, Ruffner Mountain has a trail for all experience levels. Plus, inside the Nature Center you can find native snakes, turtles, owls and more.
The Bham Now team took a guided tour through Ruffner’s Quarry Trail a couple of months ago, and I’d recommend the same to anyone else—team bonding or not.
3. Oak Mountain State Park
If you’ve been in Birmingham for any length of time, you’ve probably heard of Oak Mountain or explored it yourself. It’s famous for good reason, with over 100 miles of stunning trails.
If you’re feeling super adventurous, challenge yourself to hike the 751-foot elevation of King’s Chair Loop. You’ll definitely need a few bottles of BodyArmor Flash I.V. for that one.
4. Moss Rock Preserve
With waterways and rare plant species, Moss Rock Preserve is a favorite of hikers across Birmingham.
My friends and I have trekked the Moss Rock Preserve Trail a couple of times, and the waterfall at the end never gets old.
5. Turkey Creek Nature Preserve
Located about 15 miles north of Birmingham, Turkey Creek Nature Preserve is a popular pick for those who want a more leisurely hike.
Its 6.23 miles of hiking trails give you the most beautiful views of forests, waterfalls and biodiversity.
Where are your favorite hiking spots in Birmingham? Get out and get active—but don’t forget your BodyArmor Flash I.V.!
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