I visited Oak Mountain State Park as part of the Mammoth March Hike, fully aware it was going to be…read morea major undertaking--but it still managed to shock me. The steep climbs up and down the mountain were incredibly challenging. At one point, I even slipped and slid down part of the trail but thankfully managed to do so gracefully without hurting myself. Being from Florida, I was definitely not accustomed to the elevation gain I was about to face. There were plenty of moments throughout the hike where I questioned why I signed up for this challenge, but pushing through and ultimately finishing made it all worth it. Having the bragging rights to say I conquered this terrain feels incredibly rewarding. That day, I didn't notice much floral life, and most of the critters seemed to be hiding--likely due to the large number of people participating in the hike. That said, I was still lucky enough to spot a rattlesnake and a black racer, which made the experience even more memorable. There were a few noteworthy areas worth stopping for, including an open area near a dam‑like structure and several peaceful river and creek spots along the route. While the park is absolutely massive and I know there was so much left unexplored, the 23 miles I trekked over 9 hours was more than enough for one day. If I find myself back in the area, I might just dare to return and explore some of the parts of the park I didn't get to see. Truly a beautiful park and an incredible asset for those who live nearby and get to enjoy it regularly.

I absolutely love going out to Oak Mountain. I have been several times with my sister and on my…read moreown. There's plenty to keep you busy no matter your interest or the season. I personally love going for a hike and bringing my pup along. Plus, there's so many great spots to stop and enjoy a picnic My husband and I plan to come and visit the golf course soon. As well as pack our bows to practice at the archery course.

Friends and I were looking for a super-simple, laid-back way to kayak/canoe down the Cahaba one…read moreSaturday afternoon (minimal fuss with coordinating boats/rides, etc but maximal river time) . Canoe the Cahaba was the closest option to downtown Birmingham and offered two routes- 5.0 and 9.9 miles. We elected to do the longer 9.9 mile trip and were not disappointed. Their business model is pretty simple: they offer parking and a shuttle -boats in tow- to the appropriate put-in for your trip. Life vests, paddles and boats are all included and are in good working order. The paddle is easy, rapid-free so even novice outdoors-people will feel comfortable. Our 9.9 mile trip took about 6.5 hours with copious down time picnicking, swimming and rock skipping. We had a really brilliant time and look forward to using this outfitter again. The only caveat keeping this place from 5-stars is the too-casual way in which appointments are made. The number provided is someone's cell phone number and the communication is super casual. We ended up waiting over an hour past our reservation time on the day-of because the guy (possibly the only employee) was held up with a larger group... it would have been nice to sleep in or snag some breakfast if we had known he was going to be behind but 15 minutes turned into 60 without any fanfare. Nonetheless, a great opportunity for canoeing/kayaking in relatively close proximity to downtown.

The best trail ever. Follows Yellowleaf Creak for nearly 2 miles. Mostly level and now accessible…read morefrom a new park as well as the small trailhead parking area. My favorite trail in Alabama!

This was my first time at this park. I was recently here for my nephew's soccer game versus a team…read morefrom Tennessee. The soccer field we played on was oddly designed. Parking was a little tricky but we made our own parking spot. Overall, a decent park with several fields.

Orr Park is where I love to come to visit and walk and bring friends! The park is known for their…read morewood carvings- and when you think you know where they all are, you find another one. It's like a treasure hunt! There are benches, pavilions, a paved walking path, and a creek! There are Festivals throughout the year - Tinglewood may be the biggest, but I've also come during the Scottish Festival and an Art Festival a few years back that were both well attended. Come and visit - and stay awhile!

One of the most unique parks in the state I would say! Very innovative; draws you in with the…read moreartistic nature that's on display. My favorite carving was the lion and the intricate lines required for the lion's mane. Not to mention we always enjoy bodies of water and there was a calm creek running within the park with natural plant life. Do make sure to visit and enjoy the historical carvings by Mr. Tim Tingle and an easy walking trail.

So much fun! It was very easy to rent the slingshot, but I wasn't prepared for how much fun I'd…read morehave. I'll definitely rent again and again. Highly recommend!

Please have some good shoes and a hiking stick or trekking pole because you will need both. The…read moretrails are well maintained but quickly up in difficulty levels. I appreciate this. Everyone else may not though so it is something to be mindful of. Parking is a breeze, bathrooms are easily accessible, park is beautiful.

This was my first hike of the year and it did not disappoint It's a rather new park so everything…read moreis clean and shiny. There's plenty of parking spaces and bathrooms right at the trailhead. There's also a nice sized pavilion that can be used to have lunch or prep yourself before hitting the trails. Prepare yourself for an UPHILL trek! There's an easy peasy beginner trail that makes a small loop, but the trails begin to branch off once you make it up the initial hill. Thankfully the trails are well maintained, so the hill is pretty level, but it is very steep! People also ride horses in the park so watch out for poop.

Great place to ride, 32 miles of designated horse trails. The people that run it, Heather and Scott…read moreare just the best. Amy is is the instructor there if you need lessons you couldn't find a better teacher. I board my horse there and couldn't be happier. Excellent facilities, grooming racks, hot and cold water wash racks, two arenas, several pastures and paddocks, BIG stalls and great people.

A very nice facility, great riding instructor and stable manager! All the horses are sweet and well…read morecared for. Trail rides are fun and relaxing, and their lessons are very well managed. You get a chance to take care of your lesson horse, tack up, groom, and then ride. You have a great chance to really learn and have a great time. Amy is very patient and always willing to help with any problems you may have. Their prices are very reasonable, you definitely get your money's worth for your lessons or trail rides.

A small family run amusement park how can you go wrong?…read more This park was awesome as it really does have something for everyone to have a fun filled day either in the sun or in the pool! So they have a a handful of flat rides as well as 3 roller coasters with one for the little ones one for those in the middle and then one for the extreme with their star attraction Rampage! They also have a very good sized Waterpark with tons of slides a lazy river and a wave pool with all this your sure to stay cool on your adventure all day! Their employee Alex was beyond awesome and accommodating to me as he was kind enough to take me on a backstage tour as well as a lift hill climb up Rampage which was beyond cool as well as beautiful not only from the coaster standpoint it from just where in this beautiful country the park is located with stunning views of hills and trees you can't go wrong! They do sell their tickets online for a discount so definitely check on that as it will save you some money but more importantly if you live local just buy a season pass as your gonna wanna come here more than once! They offer FREE drinks and parking which is super cool as it gets hot here so it's a great way to stay hydrated on those forever summer days! Overall this really is an amazing park that I can't wait to come back to at some point because it's totally a vibe and a fun one at that!

The bathrooms were the worst thing ive seen. Id rather use the bathroom on myself than sit down…read more The aroma of piss is soo strong. I only talk to one worker that was nice. Way to many people for that small of a park. Dont think id go back