Discover the Hugh Branyon Backcountry Trail for Celebrate Trails Day
Explore the natural beauty and wildlife of Alabama's coastal gem
Prelude:
The 4th Saturday in April, this year it's April 22nd, is Celebrate Trails Day. It's an annual spring celebration of America’s trails. Started by Rails-to-Trails Conservancy in 2013, the celebration encourages people across the country to get outside and enjoy the nation’s trails. And we are blessed to have the #1 recreational trail in the nation to celebrate with.
The Hugh S. Backcountry Trail began in 2003 and just turned 20 years old. The Backcountry Trail was recently voted the best recreational trail in the country by USA Today readers! The winners were announced on February 17th and you can read more about the win on the above link.
There’s a new app for the trail that has a host of information and maps. You can find it at www.Outerspatial.com.
____________________________________________
Orange Beach, Ala. - (OBA) - The Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail offers outdoor enthusiasts an unparalleled experience in the heart of Alabama's coastal region. Spanning over 28 miles of paved trails and even more unpaved trails, this network of paths is a must-see for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and anyone seeking to immerse themselves in the area's rich biodiversity. This article will help you make the most of your visit to the nation’s #1 recreational trail.
A Brief History:
Named in honor of the late Gulf State Park Superintendent Hugh S. Branyon, the Backcountry Trail has been a labor of love for the local community since 2003. What began as a single dirt path, named Catman Road, has grown into an intricate network of paved trails, thanks to the tireless efforts of volunteers, government agencies, and environmental organizations.
The Trails:
The Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail system comprises 22 interconnected trails, each with its unique characteristics and points of interest. These trails include:
| Trail Name | Length (miles) |
|---|---|
| Alligator Marsh Trail | 0.8 |
| Armadillo Trail | 0.9 |
| Beach Mouse Bypass | 1.5 |
| Beachmouse Bypass | 0.6 |
| Bear Creek Trail | 0.6 |
| Cabin Connector 1 | 0.2 |
| Cabin Connector 2 | 0.2 |
| Campground Trail | 2.6 |
| Canal Trail | 0.3 |
| Catman Road Trail | 1.8 |
| Cotton Bayou Trail | 1.3 |
| Coyote Crossing Trail | 1.9 |
| Cross Park Trail/Powerline Rd | 1.0 |
| Eagle Loop Trail | 0.6 |
| Gopher Tortoise Trail | 1.6 |
| Gulf Oak Ridge Trail | 3.2 |
| Lakeview Trail/Wetland Trace | 2.5 |
| Rattlesnake Ridge Trail | 1.9 |
| Rosemary Dunes Trail | 2.4 |
| Sportsplex Bypass | 0.3 |
| State Park Road 2 Trail | 0.8 |
| Twin Bridges Trail | 1.0 |
| Total: | 28 |
In addition to the above named trails there are park roads and sidewalks to enjoy that are not listed above.
Wildlife Encounters:
The Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail is teeming with wildlife, including white-tailed deer, bobcats, red foxes, armadillos, gopher tortoises, coyotes, bobcats, wild boars and a diverse range of bird species including Bald Eagles, Cooper Hawks, Ospreys, Blue Herons, Pelicans and many more. The trail system is also home to the American alligator, so be prepared for a possible sighting!
Exploring by Bike:
Cycling is a popular way to explore the trails, with several bike rental shops located in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach to choose from. Bicycling, especially electric bikes, allows you to cover more ground and fully appreciate the diverse landscapes.
Guided Tours:
For those who prefer a more structured experience, guided tours led by knowledgeable local experts are available. These tours can provide valuable insights into the area's history, flora, and fauna.
Amenities and Accessibility:
The trail system is equipped with restrooms, picnic areas, a dog park, boat launches, and water fountains at various points. Additionally, the paved trails are wheelchair and stroller accessible, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the beauty of the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail.
The backcountry trail connects with the Beach Pavilion and the Education and Fishing Pier.
Discover the Rich Flora and Fauna of the Backcountry Trail System:
Flora: The Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail System boasts six unique ecosystems: wet pine flatwoods, live oak maritime forests, coastal dune and swales, longleaf sand ridges, freshwater marshes, and coastal hardwood swamps. Each ecosystem supports a diverse range of native plants, including white-topped pitcher plants, needle palms, sundews, Florida rosemary, and conradina. Rare and threatened plant communities can also be found along the trail and within Gulf State Park.
Fauna: Birdwatchers will delight in the abundance of avian species on the trail, with four locations – Gulf Oak Ridge, Twin Bridges, Catman Road, and Rosemary Dunes – designated as viewing points by the Alabama Coastal Birding Trail. The trail is also home to various reptile species, including American alligators, which can often be spotted at Rosemary Dunes and Gulf Oak Ridge. Mammals such as armadillos, raccoons, coyotes, otters, foxes, and wild boar frequently roam the trail. Interpretive signs are placed strategically along the route to help visitors identify the diverse flora and fauna found throughout this remarkable terrain.
Boulder Park: A Fun Addition for Kids and Families:
The Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail features Boulder Park, a great attraction for families seeking adventure and outdoor fun. Inspired by Phillip West, Coastal Resources Manager at the City of Orange Beach, Boulder Park is a collaborative project between the Backcountry Trail Foundation, Orange Beach, and Gulf State Park.
Rock climbing at Boulder Park offers numerous benefits for children, helping them develop both physical and mental skills. The activity promotes coordination, strength, flexibility, focus, and other positive attributes that contribute to a healthy lifestyle.
Conveniently located next to the Pavilion and Butterfly Garden, the park is approximately 1½ miles from the Catman Road trailhead on Hwy. 161, 1½ miles from the Orange Beach Sportsplex trailhead, and about 2 miles from the Rosemary Dunes trailhead. Plan a visit and discover the perfect blend of adventure and family bonding.
There is about a 4 mile loop that goes from the Catman Road Trailhead to the Twin Bridges Trail and immediately turns right again on Rattlesnake Ridge Trail. This trail takes you back to the sidewalk in front of Orange Beach City Hall, about a ¼ mile north of the Catman Trailhead.
The Pavilion and Butterfly Garden: A Colorful Oasis for Relaxation and Events:
The Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail offers a vibrant and serene spot to relax – the Pavilion and Butterfly Garden. The garden boasts a stunning array of blooming flowers in orange, yellow, purple, and red hues, attracting a multitude of butterflies. Unwind on the porch swing at the pavilion or lay out a blanket on the lush garden greens while enjoying the enchanting beauty of nature.
The Pavilion, nestled between the Butterfly Garden and Boulder Park on Catman Road, is an ideal location for picnics, celebrations, family outings, reunions, or corporate events. The screened, enclosed cabin-style building evokes a nostalgic outdoor charm and is conveniently situated near the trail's restroom and water facilities. This central amenity is frequently used for snowbird gatherings, 5k runs, and special city events.
To reserve the Backcountry Trail Pavilion for your private event, call 251-981-1180 and create unforgettable memories in this picturesque setting.
Experience Rustic Camping at the Primitive Outpost Campsite:
For a true back-to-nature experience, the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail now features the Primitive Outpost Campsite. Surrounded by towering pines, scrub oaks, and 15 miles of breathtaking trails, this unique camping spot offers three distinct sites: Bonanza, Duke, and Alamo. Each site features a canvas tent set upon a rustic hardwood floor, with frames made from recycled downed trees and secured by ropes.
The campsites can comfortably accommodate four people on nylon cots, with the option to host up to six guests if an additional tent is provided. A centrally located old-fashioned pump sink is available for easy cleanup after a delightful evening of grilling hotdogs, burgers, and roasting marshmallows by the campfire. To enhance your camping experience, Gulf State Park personally stocks firewood at each site.
Campers at the Primitive Outpost Campsite also have access to the park's Camp Store, swimming pool, bike rentals, and bathhouse. Group rates and special packages are available, making this an ideal getaway for families, friends, or team-building retreats.
The Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail is a natural treasure that showcases Alabama's coastal wonders. Whether you choose to hike, bike, join a guided tour, or camp in the Primitive Outpost this trail system promises unforgettable experiences and encounters with the region's abundant wildlife.
Share this article w/ Friends...
