Looking for an easy outdoor hike with spectacular views in Northwest Alabama? This post is for you!
You may be thinking: “Who the heck is going to vacation in Alabama? Why would anyone ever go there?”
I would be lying if I didn’t share the same sentiment before we entered the state. But once we crossed the Alabama state line I realized that this state is actually BEAUTIFUL. I honestly don’t know what I expected (maybe something like the backwoods of FL – middle of nowhere, flat, trees, and very hot), but I was very surprised by what I saw.
Green rolling hills for DAYS! And, it’s not even that hot (keep in mind, I am a Floridian so I’m comparing it to that kind of heat).
I swear everyone (including me) has been sleeping on Alabama.
Anyway…let’s get on to what you’re actually here for.
A 20-minute drive southwest of Double Springs will bring you to Natural Bridge Park, home of the “The Longest Natural Bridge east of the Rockies”.
Unlike the average outdoor park across suburban America, you won’t find a plastic playground to play on. Instead, you get to hike the trail, climb rocks, and admire stellar views of the natural bridges and woods around it. Make sure you don’t forget your walking shoes or hiking boots! We wore our hiking boots, but it’s not necessary if you have a sturdy pair of walking shoes.
The hike should only take you 45 minutes to 1 hour (depending how many times you stop to admire views and take pictures)!
How to Enter the Park
- Enter under the “Natural Bridge” sign and drive past the entrance booth (you won’t be paying here) until you get to a small parking lot.
- Visit the gift shop to pay the entrance fee ($3.50 for adults, $2.50 for kids – yes, they take debit/credit cards).
- Walk out of the gift shop to the left and the path will lead you to the start of the trail.
Where to See the Best Views
- Indian Face – Not far from the gift shop, you’ll come up to a sign that says “Indian Face”. You can take the short path up to the rock to get a better view. Can you spot the face in the rock below?
- Natural Bridge – Once you get closer to the 148 ft. long bridge, you’ll see handrails. I definitely recommend following the path inside to get an insider’s view! The path will take you all the way around.
- If you keep walking past the first natural bridge, you’ll eventually come to a second, smaller bridge. Just like the first one, there’s a handrail path that will take you under the bridge.
- Obviously, the natural bridges and Indian Face are going to be the coolest parts, but keep following the trail around to experience the beauty of the surrounding woods. Great views and getting your steps in? It’s a win win!
Other Things to Do in the Area
Looking for more to do after exploring the park? Check out these other outdoor spaces close by:
- Bankhead National Forrest – Definitely recommend stopping by the Ranger Station (the address on Google will take you to it) to grab a map and ask about the trails in the area. I skipped this step and got lost, so 10/10 recommend it. There are plenty of trails to pick from and waterfalls to chase (just make sure you know where you’re going lol).
- Dismals Canyon – Up for a drive? This is only 35 minutes away from Natural Bridge Park and was recommended to us by the locals. I wasn’t able to visit it on this trip, but I plan to explore the area when we go go back next spring (God willing!).
If you’re driving through or are already in the area, I hope you will take the time to stop and see this hidden gem! If you do, comment below what your favorite part was and/or tag me on any social media posts about it so I can see it!
Till next time,
Kaitlin ☼
