11 Important Tips For Hiking Alabamaâs Pinhoti Trail
Jan.22.2021
At one time or another, we all have dreams of going on a great adventure. For many, that dream is to one day hike the entire 2,100-mile Appalachian Trail (A.T.) from Georgia to Maine. But just as many (myself included) find that life gets in the way; work, family life, health issues, whatever it is, something prevents us from taking that million-step walk.
But there is an alternative, an equally challenging hike through the southern Appalachians Alabamaâs long path, the 171-mile Pinhoti Trail.
The Pinhoti Trail (or PT) stretches from the top of what is recognized as the last mountain over 1,000 feet all in the Appalachians, Flagg Mountain in Weogufkga, to the Georgia state line. The rocky, winding path follows the ridgeline of the Talladega National Forest, leading wanderers to beautiful streams, stunning waterfalls, and breathtaking views.
Midway Ice Castles
There s still a long, cold stretch of winter ahead as we blaze into this new year, and it s going to be easy to start feeling house-bound. Outdoor, family activities in the Utah winter are few and far between, but if you ve never before taken the opportunity to experience the Midway Ice Castles, this tenth anniversary year might be the ideal time to bundle up the whole crew for a magical experience.
The concept was born when Utah resident and founder Brent Christensen built an ice cave for his daughter at their Alpine home, and the spot became a minor tourist attraction. In 2011, Christensen took that idea to Midway, and has since expanded it to additional locations in Colorado, New Hampshire and Wisconsin. Each ice castle is hand built by artists who grow thousands of icicles daily, harvest them and sculpt them into existing ice structures. The process takes two months to complete, resulting in a work of ice art covering nearly an acre and weighing more than 25
8 Fantastic Outdoor Experiences In Alabama
Dec.26.2020
Alabama is recognized as one of the most biologically and geologically diverse regions in the Southeast and, in many cases, the world. The state is teeming with rare and endangered plants and animals, beautiful waterways ranging from slow, meandering blackwater rivers to white water in the mountains, and panoramic views that will take your breath away.
The state has its doors wide open, just waiting for you to explore the fantastic outdoor experiences it has to offer.
1. Stunning Waterfalls
Many people donât realize that Alabama is littered with beautiful cascading waterfalls. Oh, sure, there are the main ones that everybody knows about, like Little River Falls in Mentone and Noccalula Falls in Gadsden, but those are only the tip of the iceberg. There are hundreds of tumbling, roaring falls to be found just off the stateâs back roads, but youâll have to do a little hiking to see them.