The first Wednesday of April is National Walking Day! Lead by the American Heart Association, National Walking Day is a yearly reminder to get up and get moving. Just 30 minutes of walking can drastically improve one’s health and wellbeing while also being the perfect way to take in the fresh Spring air! So, lace up your shoes and take the family to any of these great places for some fun, family exercise.
Railroad Park
For those wanting to stay close to downtown Birmingham, Railroad Park is the perfect place for a stroll! The 19- acre greenspace has a variety of walking trails to accommodate runners, walkers, and casual meanderers, including the Magic City Loop (3/4 mile), Rail Trail (1/3 mile), Powell Avenue Promenade (1/3 mile), and Limestone Trace (1/2 mile). It also has two play areas for the children! Check out Railroad Park here!
Oak Mountain State Park
There is no better place to take a walk then in Alabama’s largest state park! There are 52 miles of diverse hiking trails available including the Treetop Interpretive Nature Trail. Here you can read signs posted along the trail and learn interesting things such as how to be a better birder, the park's amazing geology, why waterways are important, and more! Now you’re working your body and your mind. Check out Oak Mountain State Park here!
Heardmont Park
Located near Oak Mountain State Park, Heardmont Park is a great alternative if you are looking for something a little smaller. The Heardmont walking trail is about a mile long with multiple branches that link the 74-acre park. The creek side walking trail is lighted and follows along the scenic Cahaba Valley Creek and is handicap accessible. Plus, there are plenty of play meadows and a playground where the children can run and play. See what Heardmont Park has to offer here!
Kiwanis Vulcan Trail
Part of the Red Rock Trail System, this paved trail follows the bed of the old Birmingham Mineral Railroad and offers plenty of lookout points to take in the beautiful Birmingham skyline. This easy-going trail is readily accessible and perfect for families looking to get out for a pleasant walk. The trail ends right under the Vulcan too so the children can see the iconic statue up close and personal. See the trail here!
Moss Rock Preserve
With nearly 12 miles of hiking trails, there are plenty of places to explore in this local nature preserve. Celebrate National Walking Day and enjoy the all the plants blooming in the 349 acres of forest systems, large rock outcroppings, streams, and waterfalls. You may even get a chance to see the six rare species of plants that grow here! Find out more here!