Shelby Lake

The Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail offers a unique journey through nine distinct ecosystems, from coastal dunes and wetlands to maritime forests with ancient live oaks and palmettos. You'll encounter shimmering freshwater lakes, like Shelby Lake, and might even spot an eagle's nest or pitcher plant bogs along the way. The trail's largely paved and ADA-accessible paths make it an easy and inclusive experience, perfect for a relaxed exploration of Alabama's diverse coastal environment.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail system boasts numerous trailheads, restrooms, and drinking fountains. It's a multi-use path connecting Gulf State Park with Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, so access is convenient from various points. This trail is open year-round, making it an excellent choice for a leisurely hike or bike ride whenever you're in the area.

This award-winning trail is consistently recognized as one of the country's best recreational trails, offering a moderate 5.9-mile (9.5 km) route with a minimal 17 feet (5 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 2 hours and 22 minutes. Beyond its natural beauty, you might spot alligators, deer, or various bird species, and even find unique attractions like a parkour course or bouldering park near some trailheads, adding to its appeal for families.

The Middle River – Great View of Little Lake loop offers a wonderful immersion into Alabama's coastal wilderness, guiding you through a mosaic of wetlands, pine forests, and scrubland. You'll enjoy extensive views of waterways, particularly around Little Lake, where the flat terrain makes for a pleasant, extended walk. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, especially alligators and various bird species, as you traverse this scenic route.

Starting from the Cotton Bayou Trailhead, this moderate 10.4-mile (16.8 km) hiking loop with a mere 32 feet (10 metres) of elevation gain typically takes about 4 hours and 13 minutes to complete. The trailhead is situated behind a shopping plaza, making it easy to access. Remember to bring ample water, especially on warm days, and consider an early morning start for the best wildlife sightings.

This trail is a key part of the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail system within Gulf State Park, known for its diverse fauna. The Middle River area, a distributary of the Mobile-Tensaw River Delta, is particularly rich in wildlife, including alligators, turtles, ospreys, and herons. The Powerline Road bridge is a notable spot where you might catch a glimpse of alligators where the Middle River meets Middle Lake and Little Lake.