I did a thing, I did a thing! Are you looking for some local beauty while getting some steps?…read morePlease go visit the Moss Rock Preserve. First, getting to the Preserve is relatively easy. It's located within a community, which eases the mind when you solo trek. The trails are laid out nicely with clear paths. The natural stepping paths are quite easy to maneuver for beginners like me. The beauty of the rocks and boulders are amazing. Bring your kids to see all the natural beauty of the caverns and waterfalls. I love this place! Alabama is such a beautiful place. Take the time to experience this natural beauty in your own backyard. Yes, it is a true workout. Skip the gym and come outside. We outside, we outside!

Moss Rock Preserve offers beautiful walking trails, streams, waterfalls, and giant rock formations…read more It provides a great outdoor experience within minutes of downtown Hoover. We've had a great time hiking here, and it's pet friendly so our fur-babies have been able to enjoy the trails with us too. If you love the outdoors, Moss Rock Preserve is a must-visit.

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.

After talking with a friend about this trail, we decided to take advantage of the beautiful…read moreveterans day weather and check this place out. I had never heard of this park/trail before and that shocks me considering how close it is to our house. This is parking across the street, but not a whole lot. Perhaps enough room for 6-8 cars. The entire trail follows a stream which adds in a picturesque scene as you cruise along. There is a historic market telling about the blast furnaces that used to be there. There were some people, but certainly not crowded. The trail was pretty smooth for the most part. Very few roots and other trip hazards. Really my only complaint is that its not long enough. And obviously some people ignore the dog waste bags provided for them at the beginning. But overall we loved finding this little gem and will definitely be going back!

This is a great neighborhood park with access to Shades Creek. It's does 2 things really well…read more Number one it is an educational historical site and secondly it serves as a connector trail. It does these two things phenomenally well. There are a few benches, trash bins, doggie bags, educational signage, and parallel parking. The trail connects to the overall system of Mountain Brook Sidewalks and Trails and is part of the Red Rock Ridge & Valley Trail System. So if you're coming to run here be prepared to do some sidewalk running as well to get decent miles in. It's a nice change of scenery, but not really a destination park.

Next to a golf course and a railroad, the Ross Bridge Historical Park has an easy hiking/biking…read moretrail and a small creek covered by native plants. I visit this park once in a while to walk my dog or take photos of passing freight trains. There is limited parking space at the entrance, which deserves some attention.

This is a nice trail at Ross Bridge. You can park next to the road. Trail is paved for part of the…read moreway, then it's gravel, then grass. Well shaded, this is a good place to go for a walk with or without dogs. Very pretty. There are bridges and a stream runs in the middle. There's a little wooden train and a small play area for little ones. Quiet and peaceful except for when the train goes by. We like walking our dogs here.

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.

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.

A great place to go for some nature time. The falls only had a small flow when I was there but in…read morethe spring there would be a heavier stream.

Sunday, March 9th, Tony and I drove the 20 miles north to Oak Mountain State Park to see the…read morePeavine Falls. We had to hike out and even do a little rock mountain climbing to lower ourselves down to the top of the falls. I even had to lean out on some rocks to take pictures.. This was a very hard climb and my heart was really pumping on this hike but it felt good. The falls were lovely.

This is a fantastic spot for a good run or walk. While Bluff Park is full of big hills, this…read moresidewalk has only small inclines totaling around 160 feet if you run the entire length. One end to the other and back is almost exactly a 5k. While you do pass folks every now and then, this trail is never too crowded. Also, I run this at night and always feel safe. Heads up... It's not lit, so you might want to bring a light with you. Shades Crest Baptist Church is in the middle of the sidewalk and has ample parking, in case you don't live in the area.

I know what you're thinking: "a sidewalk? who cares?". I tell you who should care: anyone who wants…read moreto go for a beautiful stroll, that's who. Nestled in one of Birmingham's most quaint neighborhoods, this sidewalk is great for walking, jogging, skipping, or strolling with the kiddos. Hungry after expending all of that kinetic energy? Us too! Tip Top Grill is a stones throw from the end of the sidewalk. They have the view and the food to fill body and soul. So put on your comfy shoes and let's get moving!