Backcountry Trail Competing Again for National Title

R. Ken Cooper • March 31, 2025

Trail offers 26 paths through nine ecosystems

Backcountry Trail Competing Again for National Title

Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – The Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach is once again in the running for a national award. It is part of USA TODAY's 10Best Readers' Choice contest.

The trail is currently in 2nd place out of 20 top recreational trails across the country. Last year, it earned the top spot as the Best Recreational Trail in the same contest.

Voters can help the trail return to number one by casting daily votes online for one more week, through Monday, April 7, 2025. You can click here to vote.

The Backcountry Trail features 26 trails that stretch across nine ecosystems. Visitors can enjoy wildflowers, pine forests, and even a scenic overlook on the Gulf Oak Ridge trail.

Other highlights include the Rosemary Dunes trail, the Pavilion, and the colorful Butterfly Garden. The area provides something for both hikers and nature lovers.

Trail officials encourage the public to vote daily and share the contest link to help boost the trail’s chances. Votes can be cast once per day in each category.

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