The Richard Martin Trail, located in the charming town of Elkmont, Alabama is a 10-mile rail-trail that offers history, beautiful scenery, and all-around fun for those who like to hike, bike, and horseback ride. It was also the very first rail-trail developed in Alabama!
An unassuming gravel parking lot steps off the county road was our introduction. No gates, no park rangers, no massive conference center with all the bells and whistles. Just a simple lot, wooden trailhead sign, and the makings of a great day ahead.
Hiking is a great activity for a variety of reasons. A broad range of ages and abilities can enjoy a day or longer out on the trails. Taking a hike allows one to connect with nature, see a beautiful sunset, or get the heart rate up on a steep climb. Whether you’re an avid hiker or just starting out, properly planning a hike is essential to having a good, safe experience. So, we’ve listed below a few keys to having a successful hike.
The slight bite of a February chill was my first welcoming as I opened the car door. Surrounding me, nearly century-old cabins stood reverently on a grassy opening. Through the trees, I could see for miles and miles across the horizon. This was my first introduction to Flagg Mountain, the southernmost 1,000-foot mountain in the Appalachian Mountain range.
