October is an ideal month to enjoy the great outdoors in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach. Mild temperatures hovering around 75 degrees make this a great time of year for hiking and exploring the trails, nature preserves and historic sites on the Gulf Coast.
The Gulf State Park offers 7.8 miles of natural scenery along the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail. The trail runs alongside marshes, sand dunes, swamps and over creeks. You can easily spend an afternoon or an entire day hiking or cycling along the trails. Three paths make up the backcountry trails, and a printable map makes them easy to navigate.
Nature lovers will appreciate the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, which includes five miles of federally protected beachfront on the Fort Morgan Peninsula. More than 370 species of birds have been identified on the refuge during the migratory season, including several species of herons and ospreys. The Refuge is one of the largest undeveloped parcels of land on the Alabama Gulf Coast and has been named one of the 10 Natural Wonders of Alabama. Located within the Refuge are several short one-mile to four-mile trails that each offer unique sites and diverse habitats.
Historic Fort Morgan offers a great spot to watch the sunset. Since 1834, the Fort has stood as the guardian of Mobile Bay. The star-shaped Fort is located on the tip of the Fort Morgan Peninsula, just west of Gulf Shores. The historic landmark was completed in 1834 and was active during four wars – the Civil War, the Spanish-American War and both World Wars I and II. The Fort features a living history program, as well as a museum.
Whatever you chose to do, whether it’s hiking on nature trails, learning about the area’s history or taking a relaxing walk on the beach, you’re sure to enjoy the great temperatures, blue skies and cool breezes on the Gulf Coast this time of year. We will see you soon!