Alabama is known for its picturesque natural beauty and unique landscapes. With breathtaking views across the state, it’s not surprising that many adventurers love to explore the outdoors. One of the most popular outdoor activities, especially among nature enthusiasts, is nighttime hiking and stargazing. With that being said, here are some of the best places to enjoy these activities in Alabama.
Bankhead National Forest
Bankhead National Forest is one of the best places for night hiking and stargazing in Alabama. Located in northern Alabama, this forest offers a variety of trails, ranging from easy to challenging, which take you through beautiful forested areas, rock formations, and around natural springs.
For more adventurous hikers, the Sipsey Wilderness Trail is a must. This trail is known for its waterfalls and rock formations along the path that make for great photo opportunities. When the sun sets, the stars shine bright in the clear skies of Bankhead National Forest, making this a must-stop spot for stargazing lovers.
Monte Sano State Park
Monte Sano State Park is situated on over 2,000 acres of land near Huntsville, Alabama. This park is known for its stargazing opportunities, especially through its Von Braun Astronomical Society Planetarium and Observatory. The observatory contains a 16-inch telescope and several smaller telescopes, which offer a wonderful chance to explore the night skies.
Monte Sano State Park has several hiking trails that range from easy to challenging, with scenic overlooks that are perfect for taking in the sunset or stargazing at night.
DeSoto State Park
Known as the "Alabama’s Gulf State Park," DeSoto State Park is located in northern Alabama, near Fort Payne. With its waterfalls, rustic cabins, and 22 miles of hiking trails, it’s an ideal spot for adventure seekers.
Within the state park lies the Little River Canyon National Preserve, one of the most sought-after hiking and stargazing spots in Alabama. This preserve offers several hiking and cycling trails that wind through stunning canyons and beautiful views of Little River Falls. DeSoto State Park has also been designated as an "International Dark Sky Park," making it an ideal location to stargaze and capture stunning views of the Milky Way.
Cheaha State Park
Cheaha State Park is located at the highest point in Alabama, with Mount Cheaha reaching over 2,400 feet in elevation and offering panoramic views of the state’s beautiful countryside. The park is home to a variety of flora and fauna and has several hiking trails that range from easy to challenging.
The Bald Rock Trail is one of the most popular hikes in the park, taking you to the highest point in Alabama, where hikers can get the best view of the sky and stars. Cheaha State Park has less light pollution, making it a great place to stargaze.
Conclusion
Alabama’s naturally stunning landscapes offer plenty of opportunities to step out at night and explore wildlife and stargaze. With its various hiking trails and designated parks, there are several spots to choose from that are perfect for walking, camping, and viewing the night sky. With clear skies and minimum light pollution, any of these spots mentioned above will make for a memorable evening under the stars.