Hugh S. Branyon Back Country Trail

One of the many hidden treasures here along the gulf coast is the Back Country Trail. It is a nature lover's paradise, and a fitness enthusiast's dream. Several years ago, the City of Orange Beach teamed up with the Gulf State Park to start a backcountry trail system that goes through the wilderness part of the park. The total distance is 7.8 miles which locals and visitors alike walk, run, and bike. Beautiful oak hammocks, wooden bridges, and flora and fauna will take your breath away. The trails meander along side marshes, secondary sand dunes, swamps, and creeks.
One of my favorite spots on the trail is Gulf Oak Ridge. During trail construction a Native American settlement more than 4000 years old was discovered. An old-growth maritime forest runs along a 38 foot high ridge offering you a scenic view of the gulf. A picnic area and swings make this a great place to take a break from your wilderness hike.
The trail system provides opportunities to explore beyond the fringe of the vast 6,500-acre Gulf State Park. Whether you are searching for blooming plants on a savanna, or tracking animals in the woods, the park has a ideal location for you.
Deer, wild hogs, wolves, coyotes, gopher tortoises, bobcats, snakes, foxes, alligators, armadillos and many other animals are spotted while hiking the trails.
On Saturday I spied a flock of red tanagers and painted buntings migrating back north when I hiked the trail. It looked like the Easter Bunny had thrown Easter eggs up into the trees, and scattered them onto the ground. You just never know what you may see on any given day. It's a new adventure each time I ride or walk the trails. It is a feast for your senses. Nature lovers this is a must see before you leave our beaches. Pack a lunch, binoculars and a camera, there are many picnic tables along the trail and a beautiful screened pavilion next to a butterfly garden. For those exploring with children, those all important restrooms are located along the trail.
A 2 hour guided eco-tour is available and reservations are required. This is not a walking tour, a knowledgeable guide takes you along the trails in a golf cart sharing unique points of interest.
To schedule your tour, call 981-1063 or email lellis@cityoforangebeach.com.

Until next time - Happy Trails to You!