Moderate temperatures, a more laid-back atmosphere and beautiful scenery are in store for travelers on Alabama’s Coastal Connection this time of year. To satisfy your taste for adventure and to see coastal Alabama from a different perspective, park your car and try an alternative means of transportation.
If you have a bicycle, bring it along and travel the many trails along the byway. With 28 miles of paved trails in Gulf State Park, you’ll navigate under a canopy of live oak trees, explore Lake Shelby and ride boardwalks over the wetlands. Bicycle rentals are available, and the park also offers a bike share program. But don’t stop here – enjoy all the communities along the byway via walking and biking trails in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, Foley, and all along the Eastern Shore.
The views are amazing from the roads and trails, but to really see the coast, take to the water and explore the rivers, back bays and marshes. Witness dolphins playing in the bay, plus the great blue herons and great egrets stalking the banks for a tasty meal. While you’re out, cruise up to a waterfront restaurant for lunch. How do you explore by water on the Coastal Connection? A canoe or kayak makes it easy to glide across the water without disturbing the natural habitat. A motorized boat or personal watercraft can move you around a bit quicker. The choice is yours. If you don’t have your own, rentals are available at several locations along the byway.
For a slower pace, walking trails can be found all along Alabama’s Coastal Connection. Coastal Alabama boasts trails that take you through maritime forests; across dunes to secluded beaches; on boardwalks over swamps, marshes and pitcher plant bogs; and to beautiful bay views by way of a stroll along the Eastern Shore Trail.
No matter how you choose to travel Alabama’s Coastal Connection Scenic Byway, you’re sure to find beauty and the wonders of nature around every bend.