By james art Fall foliage makes its debut a little later in Birmingham than in more northern parts of the state, but the breathtaking displays of scarlet, orange and gold are well worth the wait. According to this year’s forecast maps, fall colors won’t peak around Birmingham until early to mid-November, so the best is yet to come. Here are 10 of our favorite destinations for viewing the changing leaves!
Birmingham Botanic Gardens
Neighborhood: Mountain Brook
More information: bbgardens.org
Many people consider visiting Birmingham Botanic Gardens in the spring and summer, but don’t underestimate the sights in October and November! Stroll through 67 acres of fall splendor as you take in all the colors. We especially love the golden Ginkgo trees and Japanese gardens at this time of year.
Birmingham Botanic Gardens is also a great location for family photos if you plan your holiday card in advance!
PINCheaha State Park
Neighborhood: Delta
More information: alapark.com
At 2,407 feet above sea level, Cheaha State Park is the highest point in Alabama. Because of this, fall colors grace Cheaha a little earlier than other parts of the state, making it a favorite destination for those of us who are ready for fall starting in early August!
The “Island in the Sky” offers hiking and biking trails, camping spots, and plenty of scenic overlooks. Favorites include Cheaha Road, Bald Rock Boardwalk, Bunker Tower, and the Pulpit Rock trail.
PINCovered Bridge and Clarkson Park
District: Kullman
More info: cullmancountyparks.com
One of the longest covered bridges in Alabama, the Clarkson Covered Bridge is a scenic spot for leaf peeping. The historic bridge was built in 1905 and is the site of the Battle of Hog Mountain. It was restored in 1975 and the surrounding park has trails, a mill, log cabins and picnic tables.
When the surrounding trees glow in shades of red, orange and yellow, this quirky landmark transforms into something out of a storybook!
PINMoss Rock Reserve
Neighborhood: Hoover
More information: hooveral.org
There are nearly 12 miles of hiking trails at Moss Rock Preserve, a 349-acre nature preserve. Hike the trails and take in views of fall foliage, wildlife, waterfalls, streams, and rock outcrops. Even though Moss Rock Preserve is right in Hoover, you’ll feel miles away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life!
PINKnockalulla Falls
Neighborhood: Gadsden
More info: noccalulafallspark.com
Just an hour outside of Birmingham, Noccalula Falls Park and Campground sits on 500 acres of land in the Appalachian Mountains. The park is bisected by Black Creek, and in the very center is a 90-foot waterfall that flows four miles downstream.
Although Knockalulla Falls is worth the trip to Gadsden any time of year, the combination of the majestic waterfall with the jewel-toned foliage is truly awe-inspiring!
PINOak Mountain State Park
Neighborhood: Meadowbrook
More information: alapark.com
At almost 12,000 acres, Oak Mountain State Park is the largest state park in Alabama. Whether you prefer kayaking, hiking, mountain biking, or even horseback riding, fall at Oak Mountain is full of activity. Some of the most popular leaf-peeping hikes are King’s Chair Lookout and Peavine Falls.
PINRed Mountain Park
Neighborhood: Five Points South
More information: redmountainpark.org
Named for Birmingham’s rusty, iron-filled soil, Red Mountain Park pays homage to the city’s famous iron industry. The park boasts 16 miles of hiking and biking trails filled with artifacts from the Iron City’s golden industrial age.
During October and November, Red Mountain’s 1,500 acres of hardwood forests transform into a vibrant wonderland, making it the perfect place to soak up the fall color.
PINMount Ruffner
Neighborhood: East Lake
More information: ruffnermountain.org
Ruffner Mountain is a 1,038-acre urban nature preserve that connects East Lake, Irondale, Roebuck Springs and Greater Birmingham. The private preserve has 14 miles of trails, an impressive nature center and acres of forest.
The breathtaking view of Birmingham from the Ruffner Mountain lookout is well worth the $5 admission fee, especially during the fall months! It’s the perfect spot if you want a bird’s-eye view of Birmingham’s autumnal glory.
PINShades Crest Road in Bluff Park
Neighborhood: Hoover
More information: hooveral.org
Hoover’s Bluff Park neighborhood has some of the best views in the Magic City, and the drive from Oxmoor Road to Shades Crest to Highway 150 is perfect for cruising in the fall months. Soak in the foliage and don’t forget to stop for lunch or dinner! Bluff Park has some great spots including Mr. P’s Deli and Bluff Park Diner.
PINVolcano Park and Trail
Neighborhood: Five Points South
More information: visitvulcan.com
The statue of Vulcan is a relic from the Magic City, but did you know there’s a park and walking trail right next to it? The trail is just over four miles long and is a relatively easy route, perfect for a brisk walk. Vulcan Park offers breathtaking views of Birmingham, made even more beautiful by the autumn colours!
PINHappy Fall, Birmingham!
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