As excited as Alabamians are for cooler temperatures to arrive, we know when the leaves begin to change colors it means that fall is truly here. (Although it will still be hot for a bit longer!) Autumn colors traditionally peak in Alabama during late October and early November in our area, so here’s a roundup of places to enjoy the fall leaves in Birmingham.
Oak Mountain State Park
Just a short drive south of Birmingham, Oak Mountain is the largest state park in Alabama. It offers numerous hiking trails, including the Treetop Nature Trail, which provides an elevated perspective of the fall foliage. At over 9,000 acres, the park’s lakes and forests make for a picturesque fall backdrop.
Location: 200 Terrace Dr, Pelham 35124
Website: alapark.com/parks/oak-mountain-state-park
Red Mountain Park
Situated close to downtown Birmingham, this park features miles of hiking and biking trails. The hardwood forests in the park turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow during the fall months. There are 16 miles of multi-use trails winding through 1,500 forested acres.
Location: Park entrances: 2011 Frankfurt Drive, Birmingham, AL 35211
2019 Venice Road, Birmingham, AL 35211
Website: redmountainpark.org/
Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve
Located on the east side of Birmingham, Ruffner Mountain boasts several hiking trails with diverse terrain, including lush forests. The overlooks provide stunning views of the city and surrounding foliage. It comprises 1,038 acres of biodiverse urban forest and has 14 miles of trails.
Location: 1214 81st Street South, Birmingham, AL 35206
Website: ruffnermountain.org
Moss Rock Preserve
Hoover, just south of Birmingham, is home to Moss Rock Preserve. It offers hiking trails that wind through sandstone outcroppings and wooded areas. It’s a great place to witness the changing leaves in a natural setting. Hiking trails run through this wooded, 349-acre nature preserve with streams and climbable boulders.
Location: 617 Preserve Way, Hoover, AL 35226
Website: hooveral.gov/214/Moss-Rock-Preserve
Birmingham Botanical Gardens
Just outside of downtown in Mountain Brook, this 67.5-acre garden features various themed gardens and collections, many of which showcase trees and plants that exhibit beautiful fall colors. The Japanese Gardens and the Hill Garden are especially popular during the autumn season. It is a fantastic place to experience the changing seasons.
Location: 2612 Lane Park Road Birmingham, AL 35223
Address: bbgardens.org
Railroad Park
Located in the heart of downtown Birmingham, Railroad Park offers a 19 acre urban green space where you can relax and take in the fall foliage. The park’s lakeside walking paths and open areas are particularly scenic during the autumn months. You can pack a picnic lunch or visit some of the eateries nearby to grab a bite to enjoy outside.
Location: 1600 1st Ave. South, Birmingham 35233
Website: railroadpark.org
Vulcan Park and Museum
Visit Vulcan Park and Museum to get panoramic views of Birmingham’s skyline surrounded by the fall foliage. The park is especially picturesque during this season. Ride the elevator to the top of the largest cast iron statue in the world (and the largest metal statue ever made in the United States) to take in views for miles.
Location: 1701 Valley View Drive, Birmingham 35209
Website: visitvulcan.com
Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum
For a more romantic spin on enjoying the fall colors, you can enjoy the Fall Foliage Special in the form of a 75-minute train ride in either an enclosed or open-air coach. This event runs on the weekends of October 26th & 27th and November 2nd & 3rd. to the top of the largest cast iron statue in the world (and the largest metal statue ever made in the United States) to take in views for miles.
Location: 1919 9th Street, Calera 35040
Website: hodrm.org
The timing of peak fall foliage can vary from year to year, typically occurring in October and early November in Birmingham. It’s a good idea to check local foliage reports and plan a visit during that time for the best leaf-watching experience.
Also, keep an eye out for fall festivals and other events in and around Birmingham! Many of these events feature seasonal activities, food, and entertainment that will also feature a backdrop of autumn colors.
