North Alabama, Northwest Loop | Winston | Best Seasons: Fall | Spring
Bankhead National Forest’s Sipsey Wilderness Trail (Site #15, Northwest Loop) takes the birder a step back in time with its tinkling waterfalls and moss-covered stones decorating one of the finest forests Alabama has to offer. Each spring, this verdant forest trail is surrounded with the songs of Cerulean and Black-throated Green warblers, the cheery sounds of Summer and Scarlet tanagers, and the strident calls of Ovenbirds as they forage about on the forest floor. As you explore this area, search the moist leaf litter for American Woodcocks and Chuck-will’s-widows, birds with such incredible camouflage that you may only notice them as they explode from under your feet!
Note: during hunting season: for your safety, plan to wear hunter orange when sharing a primitive environment with hunters.
GPS: N 34.2854, W 87.3986
Fee: Free
Amenities: Parking, Hiking, Restrooms, Picnic Area
Contact Info:
U.S. Forest Service
District Ranger, Bankhead National Forest
PO Box 278
Double Springs, AL 35553
(205) 489-5111
You can download a map of the Wilderness trail here.
From the Central Firetower Kiosk (see site 14), go 2.5 miles south on AL Highway 33. Turn right onto CR 60/Cranal Road and follow it for 3.9 miles to the Sipsey Wilderness Trailhead, located near the Sipsey River Picnic Area.
Amenities Available: