Things to do near Dismals Canyon
Want to escape the ordinary and find some hidden outdoor gems? This blog will take you on a journey to lesser-known parks and beautiful trails that promise fresh air and adventure. Whether you're seeking a thrilling hike, a serene canoe ride, or a quiet spot to unwind, you’ll discover places that will inspire your next adventure. Dive in and let the great outdoors surprise you!
Read more:-How to Visit Dismals Canyon in Alabama (2024)
Rock Bridge Canyon Equestrian Park
Have you heard of Rock Bridge Canyon Equestrian Park? If not, you’re in for a nice surprise! This park is like a hidden gem in Columbia, Missouri. If you love outdoor activities, especially riding horses, this is the perfect place for you. It’s right next to Rock Bridge Memorial State Park, and whether you’re a good rider or just want a quiet escape into nature, this park has something for everyone.
When you arrive, there are over 30 miles of trails waiting for you. That means lots of space to ride, walk, or even bike if you prefer. The trails are easy to follow, and the views are amazing—rolling hills, open fields, and calm streams. It’s the kind of place where time seems to slow down.
Don’t worry about how to get around—there are parking spots for horse trailers, steps to help you get on your horse, and even places for your horse to drink water. And if you don’t ride horses, you can still enjoy walking or biking on the trails. There’s something here for everyone!
Sometimes, the park has special events or classes for riding, and if you’re lucky, you might catch one during your visit. There are also programs where you can learn about the local plants and animals, perfect for anyone who loves nature.
And if you want more adventure, Rock Bridge Memorial State Park is right next door, where you can see the famous "Rock Bridge" formation. Columbia has many parks and outdoor places to explore, so you’ll never run out of things to do.
A tip: if you plan to visit on a weekend, try to get there early for a good parking spot. Don’t forget to bring water, snacks, and good walking shoes. If you’re riding a horse, remember to wear a helmet. Checking the weather before you go can also help you avoid muddy trails!
Next time you want to have some fun outdoors, keep Rock Bridge Canyon Equestrian Park in mind. It’s a great place to enjoy nature and have a memorable experience.
Bear Creek Canoe Run
If you like water activities, you have to check out Bear Creek Canoe Run. It’s hidden in northwest Alabama, near a small town called Phil Campbell in Franklin County, and it’s perfect for a peaceful day of canoeing or kayaking.
Imagine floating down a calm river, surrounded by quiet nature. Doesn’t that sound relaxing? The river is about 26 miles long, but most people like to paddle the easy 9-mile section, which takes about 3 to 5 hours. The water is gentle and safe, making it great for beginners or anyone who just wants to relax.
There’s one part called the "Rock Garden," where the water splashes a bit, but don’t worry, it’s still safe and fun.
What’s really nice is that Bear Creek has a shuttle service, so when you’re done paddling, they can drive you back to your car. It costs about $15 to $20. On the way, you might see animals like river otters, blue herons, and maybe even a deer or two. The best time to visit is in spring or early summer when the flowers are blooming.
There aren’t any places to buy food along the river, so be sure to bring your own snacks and water. And if you have extra time, you can visit Dismals Canyon nearby, where you can see tiny glowing creatures called Dismalites. It feels like a fairy tale!
Bear Creek Canoe Run is the perfect place if you want a peaceful and fun day in nature.
Sipsey Wilderness
If you’re in the mood for something a little more wild, you should check out Sipsey Wilderness. This place is truly amazing. It’s in the Bankhead National Forest in Alabama, and Sipsey is like a paradise for anyone who loves hiking, camping, or just being out in nature.
The wilderness area is about 25,000 acres big, with deep valleys, steep hills, and the beautiful Sipsey River. There are also waterfalls you won’t want to miss, like Fall Creek Falls and Shiprock Falls. These spots are great for resting during your hike and enjoying the scenery.
There are many trails to pick from, but my favorites are the Sipsey River Trail and Bald Rock Trail. Whether you want a challenge or just an easy walk, there’s something for everyone. If you like camping in the wild, Sipsey is a great place for it! Just be ready for a more rugged experience—there are no set campsites, but that’s part of the fun, right?
Fishing is also popular here. The river has lots of bass and catfish, so if you like to fish, bring your fishing gear.
It’s easy to get there—just go to the Sipsey River Trailhead off Highway 33. The best times to visit are spring and fall when the weather is nice, and the colors are beautiful. You don’t need a permit for day hikes, but if you camp overnight, you’ll need one. One more thing—there’s little to no cell phone service, so take a map or GPS and tell someone where you’re going before you head out.
Sipsey Wilderness is a dream for anyone who wants to escape and enjoy nature. You won’t regret visiting!
Key Cave National Wildlife Refuge
If you’re looking for a peaceful day outside, visit Key Cave National Wildlife Refuge in northwest Alabama. It’s a quiet, hidden spot that protects rare animals like the Alabama cavefish, which only lives here. Isn’t that cool?
The refuge is about 7 miles from Florence. While you can’t go inside the cave (it’s closed to protect the fish and bats), there are some nice trails nearby. The open fields and trees make it a great place to watch birds, so bring binoculars if you have them. You might even spot red-tailed hawks or quail!
There aren’t any restrooms or places to camp, so it’s best to treat this as a short visit. Pack some food and drinks, and enjoy a peaceful day outdoors. Afterward, you can visit nearby places like Sauta Cave or Fern Cave. Both are worth seeing!
If you want to learn more about the area’s history, Florence isn’t far. You can visit the Rosenbaum House, designed by the famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright, or stop by the Indian Mound and Museum to learn more about the past.
Key Cave National Wildlife Refuge may be small, but it’s a peaceful and unique place to spend a day appreciating nature.
Natural Bridge Park
Another great place to visit is Natural Bridge Park in Winston County, Alabama. When I first saw the Natural Bridge—a huge sandstone arch that’s been standing for over 200 million years—I was amazed. It’s 148 feet long and 60 feet high, and it’s stunning.
The walk to the bridge is really short, only about 0.3 miles, so it’s perfect if you’re looking for something easy. You can even bring kids, and they’ll love it! There’s also a rock formation called Indian Face Rock, which looks like a human face. It’s a fun spot for pictures!
While you’re there, you can visit the small store for snacks and crafts, and there’s a picnic area where you can take a break. The park is open from 8:00 AM until sunset, and the entry fee is not too expensive.
If you want more adventure, Bankhead National Forest is nearby with more trails. And Dismals Canyon is another great place to see glowing Dismalites at night.
Natural Bridge Park is a lovely place for a relaxing day outside. Whether you’re hiking or just enjoying the view, you won’t want to miss it.
Tuscumbia Spring Park
Last but not least, there’s Tuscumbia Spring Park in Tuscumbia, Alabama. It’s a wonderful place if you love nature and history. The park is known for its natural springs, like Blue Springs and Cold Water Springs, and they create such a peaceful feeling.
What makes this park really special is that it’s connected to Helen Keller. This is where she was born, and you can visit her childhood home, which is right next to the park. It’s amazing to walk in the same place where she grew up.
The park has nice walking trails, and it’s a great spot for a quiet picnic. Depending on when you visit, you might even get to enjoy a local festival or event, which makes it even more fun.
Tuscumbia Spring Park is easy to find, and once you’re done, you can check out other nearby spots like the Alabama Music Hall of Fame. All in all, it’s a great place to enjoy both nature and history.
Conclusion
After exploring the hidden gems near Dismals Canyon, it’s clear that this region offers something for every outdoor enthusiast. Whether you’re drawn to the tranquility of Bear Creek Canoe Run, the rugged beauty of Sipsey Wilderness, or the awe-inspiring Natural Bridge Park, each destination brings its own unique charm. Rock Bridge Canyon Equestrian Park is perfect for a day on horseback, while Key Cave National Wildlife Refuge provides a peaceful spot to enjoy Alabama’s rare wildlife. Don’t forget Tuscumbia Spring Park, where nature meets history, offering a serene and enriching experience. These adventures promise to rejuvenate your spirit and inspire your next outdoor escape. So pack your bags, embrace the beauty around Dismals Canyon, and make unforgettable memories in nature’s playground!
Hello! I’m,Ratndip a dedicated trekking enthusiast with a deep love for exploring the world’s most captivating trails. With over 2 years of trekking experience, I’ve had the privilege of hiking through stunning landscapes, from the majestic Himalayas to the lush Amazon rainforest. My journey into trekking started as a personal quest for adventure and has evolved into a lifelong passion for discovering new terrains and connecting with nature.