State Park Hikes Coming Up

Alabama State Parks has announced First Day Hikes, part of a nationwide initiative led by America’s State Parks to encourage people to get outdoors, weather permitting. They will be led by state park staff and volunteers. At Gulf State Park, the hike will begin at 9 a.m. at the Nature Center. It will involve hiking on Bear Creek to Gopher Tortoise Trail, then to Lake Shelby Overlook. The distance is approximately 3 miles round trip on a paved, flat trail, intended for all ages and experience levels. While the event is free and open to the public, those who are not overnight guests at the park must pay a $2 entrance fee. At Meaher State Park, “Sunrise Over Meaher” will involve a hike on Canecutter Trail following the Gateway to the Delta out over Mobile Bay. Hikers are asked to meet at Pavilion 2 across the road from the main shower house at 6 a.m. The hike will begin through the center of the park toward the trailhead at the Gateway to the Delta. After sunrise, it will wind toward the back beach.