Reviewed by: Elizabeth Hobbs
4 beautiful parks + trails worth the 1.5 hour drive from Huntsville
Reading time: 5 minutes
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If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you’re in luck. North Alabama is one of the most biodiverse places in the country, and there are some incredible parks and trails less than two hours away from Huntsville.
Check out these four must-visit spots and learn why they’re a favorite among the local students at The University of North Alabama.
Why The Shoals is a natural wonder
What is the Muscle Shoals National Heritage Area?
The Muscle Shoals National Heritage Area is North Alabama’s hub for natural wonder and beauty. Housed in UNA’s Office of Regional Engagement, it’s one of 62 national heritage areas in the country.
“We focus on conservation, recreation, Native American heritage and music. Our area extends from Waterloo to Decatur on the eastern edge and to Bankhead National Forest in the South.”
T.J. Johnson, Programs Manager, Muscle Shoals National Heritage Area
1. Wildwood Park
Just around the corner from The University of North Alabama’s campus is Wildwood Park. It’s a 200-acre park with 17 trails that includes access to Cypress Creek—one of the most popular kayaking spots in The Shoals.
- Where: 1175 Waterloo Rd, Florence, AL 35630
- Activities: Kayaking, mountain biking, walking, picnicking, fishing + more
- Unique features: The 10 miles of biking trails have recently been redeveloped.
- Why UNA students love it: Wildwood Park is less than a mile from UNA! Plus, UNA students can rent kayaks, bikes, tents and other equipment for free from the Outdoor Adventure Center right beside the park.
2. McFarland Park
If a nearby marina isn’t on your college town wishlist, UNA students might tell you that it should be. Less than two miles from campus is McFarland Park, which is an outdoor enthusiast’s wonderland.
- Where: 200 James M Spain Dr, Florence, AL 35630
- Activities: Golf driving range, disc golf, fishing, events (like the annual 4th of July Spirit of Freedom Celebration), RV park, concerts (like the W. C. Handy Festival + ShoalsFest), playgrounds, baseball + soccer fields + more
- Unique features: The golf driving range hosts PGA-sanctioned events every year. Plus, there’s an on-site restaurant and marina store.
- Why UNA students love it: McFarland Park is close to campus and features serene views of the Tennessee River. Not every student in the state can leave campus and be fishing on the river in less than five minutes!
Love all the natural beauty of Florence? Check out UNA today.
3. TVA Reserve
After five minutes of being at the TVA Reserve, you can see why it’s a place where people come to escape their busy lives and get refreshed. Although it’s only several miles from the heart of Florence, TVA’s 17 miles of paved and primitive trails feel like a haven.
- Where: 73 Thunder Rd Florence, AL 35630
- Activities: Hiking, biking, running, picnicking, bird watching, camping, playgrounds + more
- Unique features: You can find a beautiful wildflower garden, natural woods, a natural waterfall and the Old Railroad Bridge on-site.
- Why UNA students love it: It’s one of the most peaceful trails in The Shoals.
4. River Heritage Park
Located at the base of the Renaissance Tower and adjacent to the Marriott Shoals Hotel and Conference Center, River Heritage Park features a natural setting with an urban flair. It’s one of the best kid-friendly parks and showcases a breathtaking view of the Tennessee River.
- Where: 15 Hightower Pl, Florence, AL 35630
- Activities: Splash pad (operates May-September), playground, picnic spots, walking + more
- Unique features: Check out the 1.3-mile trail that’s adjacent to the Tennessee River canal. The park also features historical monuments and exhibits.
- Why UNA students love it: Students love getting to take walks together beside the beautiful canal.
Why UNA students enjoy living in The Shoals
As a former UNA student, T.J. knows just how special it is to go to college in a place full of outdoor opportunities:
“We have a national heritage area in Northwest Alabama for a reason, because we have extremely significant cultural, natural, historical and recreational stories to tell within this region. We are in one of the most biodiverse places in the country.
The Tennessee River is so central to life here and makes this area a quality of life destination. Every day, UNA students get to experience the beauty of the amazing resources we have here.”
T.J. Johnson, Programs Manager, Muscle Shoals National Heritage Area
Ready to call The Shoals your new home away from home? Learn more about UNA today.
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