Alabama – Unusual Attractions and Day Trips

Alabama Off the Beaten Path

Alabama has a lot to offer residents and visitors alike, from three National Forests, to the fun and sunny coastline along the Gulf of Mexico. Expect the unexpected when you visit this state that has a lot to offer.

National Forests

There are three National Forests in Alabama: William B. Bankhead National Forest in the North, Conecuh National Forest in the South, and Talladega National Forest in the East and Central portions of the state. Several hiking trails crisscross the Talladega, including the Pinhoti, designated a National Recreation Trail and stretching for 102 miles. Views from the rocky cliffs and overlooks are spectacular.

Some trails in the Talladega lead to waterfalls at Devils Den, Cheaha Falls and High Falls. These beautiful ridges and peaks are the southernmost reach of the Appalachian mountain chain which has its northern terminus 1,600 miles away in Newfoundland.

Saint Stephens Ghost Town

Once the territorial capital of Alabama, Saint Stephens today is a ghost town. It is on the Banks of the Tombigbee River and situated on a high bluff that the Choctaw Indians called Hobucakintopa. In 1803 the Choctaw Trading House was established at Saint Stephens and the Choctaw Agency in 1805. The post was active in the deerskin trade, back when a “buck” was worth a dollar. Saint Stephens became the territorial capital in 1817.

Russell Cave National Monument

This park was established in 1961, on 310 acres of land donated by the National Geographic Society to the American people. The entrance has a boardwalk and visitors are allowed to take either self-guided or ranger conducted tours.

Editor’s Note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about attractions that are off the beaten path in Alabama.