Best spots to enjoy fall foliage a short drive from Birmingham

If you’re as excited about fall colors as I am, you’re in luck! We’ve rounded up some of the best spots in Alabama to take in beautiful autumn views—whether you’re looking for scenic overlooks, peaceful walks or a quick weekend getaway—all a short drive from Birmingham!

Keep reading to discover these fall favorites.

Alabama State Parks

Buck’s Pocket State Park

You’ll hit the leafy sweet spot at this popular spot in Northeast Alabama. Expect great views, hiking trails and interesting wildlife.

• Visit Buck’s Pocket State Park: 393 Co Rd 174, Grove Oak, AL 35975
• Distance from Birmingham: 1 hour 40 minutes

Lake Guntersville State Park

Resting along the banks of the Tennessee River in Northeast Alabama, Lake Guntersville stretches for 69,000 acres through natural woodlands. Visit during the autumn months and you’ll have a new favorite place for beautiful leafy views.

• Visit Lake Guntersville State Park: 1155 Lodge Dr, Guntersville, AL 35976
• Distance from Birmingham: 1 hour 34 minutes

Monte Sano State Park

This Huntsville state park offers 22 miles of hiking and biking trails—all gorgeously ensconced by leaves in vivid yellows, oranges and reds. For the best spots to see the changing leaves of Monte Sano State Park’s many oak trees, follow the North and South Plateau Loop trails. They won’t disappoint. 

• Visit Monte Sano State Park: 5105 Nolen Ave SE, Huntsville, AL 35801
• Distance from Birmingham: 1 hour 42 minutes

Oak Mountain State Park

Located near Birmingham in Pelham, Oak Mountain State Park is a top spot for leaf peeping in Alabama. Here you’ll be swept away by miles of magnificent colors along cascading ridges dotted with pines and hardwoods. Wear your hiking boots and venture along the King’s Chair trail. Though moderately steep, the views are so good they’ll leave you breathless. 

• Visit Oak Mountain State Park: 200 Terrace Dr, Pelham, AL 35124
• Distance from Birmingham: 21 minutes

Gulf State Park

Want to mix fall colors with a coastal vibe? Gulf State Park’s lakes and trails are peaceful and picturesque this time of year. Paddle a kayak, stroll the boardwalk or just soak in the scenery.

• Visit Gulf State Park: 20115 State Park Rd, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
• Distance from Birmingham: 4 hours 25 minutes

Alabama canyons + forests

Little River Canyon National Preserve

Atop Lookout Mountain in Fort Payne, you’ll find the beloved Little River Canyon. Along with impressive waterfalls, rock formations and bluff views, it’s notorious for its stunning autumn shades. Venture along Canyon Rim Parkway and take in the beauty from several scenic overlooks.

• Visit Little River Canyon National Preserve: 4322 Little River Trail, #100, Fort Payne, AL 35967
• Distance from Birmingham: 1 hour 39 minutes

Bankhead National Forest

Maple and poplar trees explode in mind-blowing colors at the Bankhead National Forest. Known as the land of a thousand waterfalls, it’s one of the most scenic spots in the state. Found in Northwest Alabama, you’ll discover over 90 miles of trails through the Sipsey Wilderness, which means endless enchantment wherever you turn. 

• Visit Bankhead National Forest: 1070 AL-33, Double Springs, AL 35553
• Distance from Birmingham: 58 minutes

Alabama lakes + mountains

Lake Martin

One of Alabama’s largest lakes, Lake Martin, is stunning in the fall. Take a scenic drive along the shoreline or enjoy a picnic while the water reflects the colorful foliage.

• Visit Lake Martin: 1791 Overlook Dr., Dadeville, AL 36853
• Distance from Birmingham: 1 hour 53 minutes

Lake Eufaula

Known as the “Bass Capital of the World,” Lake Eufaula also shines with fall colors. Its winding coves and surrounding forests make it a prime spot for a relaxing autumn getaway.

• Visit Lake Eufaula: 104 Lakepoint Drive, Eufaula, AL 36027
• Distance from Birmingham: 2 hours 50 minutes

Ruffner Mountain

Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or prefer to sit back and take in the views, Ruffner Mountain in Birmingham is sure to satisfy your love for epic colors and crunchy leaves.

• Visit Ruffner Mountain: 1214 81st St S, Birmingham, AL 35206
• Distance from Birmingham: 14 minutes

Lookout Mountain

Stretching across the northeast corner of the state, Lookout Mountain delivers panoramic views of rolling hills and vibrant fall foliage. Hike, drive or just take in the view—either way, the autumn colors won’t disappoint.

• Visit Lookout Mountain: Fort Payne, AL 35967
• Distance from Birmingham: 2 hours 19 minutes

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