Celebrating National Trails Day and World Bicycle Day on the Backcountry Trail

R. Ken Cooper • June 3, 2024

Celebrate National Trails Day on the Best Recreational Trail in the United States

Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – The Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail is the perfect destination to celebrate National Trails Day (on Saturday) and World Bicycle Day (today). The Backcountry Trail offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors of all ages and skill levels. The trail has been recognized as the best recreational trail in the United States for two consecutive years by USA Today readers, a testament to its unique features and popularity among outdoor enthusiasts.

With over 28 miles of trails winding through nine distinct ecosystems, the Backcountry Trail provides ample opportunities for hiking, biking, wildlife viewing, and nature education. The trail's paved paths and boardwalks are suitable for cyclists of all abilities, from families with young children to experienced riders seeking a more challenging route.

The park's bike share program, accessible through the Bloom App, makes it easy for visitors to "rent" bikes and explore the trail system without bringing their own bicycles.

Whether celebrating National Trails Day with a hike through the Longleaf pine forests and coastal dunes or enjoying a World Bicycle Day ride along the gentle terrain of the paved paths, visitors to the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail are sure to find an outdoor experience that suits their interests and abilities.

The trail's combination of natural beauty, diverse ecosystems, and accessible amenities make it a great place to celebrate National Trails Day that took place on Saturday and World Bicycle Day happening today.

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Coastal Alabama Food Truck and Beer Festival Set to Return to Gulf Shores

By OBA Staff • June 11, 2025

Gulf Shores, Ala. — (OBA) — Gulf Shores will once again welcome a popular event focused on food and fun. The Annual Food Truck and Craft Beer Festival is returning for its fourth year. It will be held on November 8 and 9 at Gulf Place. The event runs from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day and includes live music, lawn games, and activities for all ages.

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By OBA Staff • June 11, 2025

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By Guy Busby • June 11, 2025

Foley, Ala. — (OBA) — Foley is adding more lights to the oak trees along city streets as part of a project to brighten the downtown area. The new lights will help make the area more welcoming and easier to walk through at night. They are part of a larger plan to improve lighting around town. The project focuses on adding lights to both the trees and nearby walkways.

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By OBA Staff • June 10, 2025

Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — An Orange Beach man drowned in south Alabama Sunday afternoon, according to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency. Dewayne Stephens, 55, of Orange Beach, was identified as the man who lost his life.

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Zales Outlet Targeted in Weekend Burglary in Foley

By OBA Staff • June 9, 2025

Foley, Ala. — (OBA) — The Foley Police Department is investigating a burglary that happened overnight at the Tanger Outlet Mall. An employee at Zales Outlet called the police around 8:30 a.m. Monday. They reported that jewelry had been stolen during the night. The value of the stolen items has not been released.

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By John Mullen • June 9, 2025

Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — A group of four people is planning a new mini-golf course at the site of longtime Bubba’s Seafood House on beach road. John Pilcher, Jody Pilcher, Mary Pilcher and Emmie Pilcher Flowers are making the request. According to Baldwin County tax records, the group owns six parcels fronting the road east of Fat Daddy’s. They will request changes to a previously submitted site plan.

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By OBA Staff • June 9, 2025

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Things to do on the Gulf Coast this week.

From Festivals to Flyovers, this Week is Packed with Activities

By Jessica A. Taylor • June 9, 2025

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