Birmingham, AL Adventure Stories | RootsRated

‘Exploring Wild Alabama’ Highlights 150 Must-See Destinations

"Exploring Wild Alabama" details the ecology, landscapes, flora and fauna of 150 areas available to the public.

10 Must-See Alabama Fall Festivals & Corn Mazes

Here are Alabama's best festivals and corn mazes, from Guntersville to the Gulf Coast.

Hiking the 5,500-Mile Eastern Continental Trail

A portion of he 5,500-mile Eastern Continental Trail runs through Alabama

Tips on Hiking with Dogs in Alabama

Here are expert tips on hiking with dogs in Alabama, plus several great pet-friendly trails.

Starry Night: The Best Places to Go Stargazing in Alabama

From hidden hikes to quiet lakes, the state is full of spots to soak up the night sky. Here, the best places to go stargazing in Alabama.

10 of the Toughest Outdoor Adventures in Alabama

From hardcore hikes to challenging climbs to hair-raising rapids, Alabama has plenty of ways to up the adventure ante. Here, 10 brag-worthy ways to do it.

Trail Angels in Alabama: What They Do and Why They Do It

For weary hikers, these selfless souls seem heaven sent. Here, the backstory on trail angels in Alabama.

Spring in Your Step: The Best Alabama Running Groups

For great inspiration to lace up your sneakers, check out the best Alabama running groups the next time you head out.

6 Must-Do Nature Conservancy Hikes in Alabama

Alabama is full of great hikes, many courtesy of groups like the Nature Conservancy. Here, 6 must-do Nature Conservancy hikes.

Aerial Adventure: 5 Fantastic Ziplines in the Southeast

Take your adventure to new heights with these 5 great ziplines in the Southeast.

The Ultimate Alabama Road Trip: 7 Days of Adventure Across the Yellow Hammer State

From the sparkling waters of the Gulf to the state's highest peak, here's how to map out the ultimate Alabama road trip.

The Great Eastern Trail: An Appalachian Trail Alternative

Looking for an alternative to hiking the AT? Consider the Great Eastern Trail, a work in progress that runs from New York State to Alabama.

Hamming It Up on the Trail: The Story of Alabama's Ham Radio Hikers

A look at the unique individuals who hike the state’s magnificent trails and, while doing so, communicate with the world via amateur or “ham” radio.

Bigfoot in Alabama? Some Outdoor Enthusiasts Say So

According to some outdoor enthusiasts, the legend of Bigfoot in Alabama could be more than just talk. Here, what investigators say about the mysterious sightings.

6 Extraordinarily Inspiring Runners From Alabama

Need some motivation to lace up your sneakers? You'll love the stories of Alabama's most inspiring runners.

5 Historic Hidden Treasures on Alabama Trails

Hidden within Alabama’s forests, black water rivers, and delta, historic treasures are waiting to be explored. Here, 5 not to miss.

The Boom of Birmingham Trail Running

In recent years, Birmingham has become a hub for trail running in the South. We take a closer look at this exciting trend.

Outlaw Hideouts, Hidden Passageways, and Primeval Landscapes: Discovering the Secrets of Dismals Canyon

This natural playground is full of Native American history and once served as an outlaws' hideout. It's now a must-do hike in Alabama.

Alabama's Forever Wild Trails: 10 Must-Hike Trails

Forever Wild is one of the most successful outdoor initiatives in Alabama. Here, 10 of the best Forever Wild trails to explore.

5 Alabama Mountain Bike Trails Great for Beginners

Alabama has several mountain bikes trails designed to help beginners ease into the sport and build their skills and confidence. Here, 5 recommended picks.

M.J. “Nimblewill Nomad” Eberhart: A Q&A with the Triple Crown Hiker, Alabama Cabin Caretaker, and Outdoors Veteran

M.J. Eberhart, e.g. "Nimblewill Nomad", is caretaker of historic Flagg Mountain in Alabama. Here, we speak to the veteran Triple Crown hiker about his inspiring adventures.

Travel Back in Time on Alabama’s 5 Best Native American Hikes

Alabama is rich in Native American history—as well as hikes that let you dig deeper into it. Here, five fascinating hikes to explore.

The Appalachian Trail From Maine to ... Alabama?

Several groups and individuals are making an all-out effort to bring the southern terminus of the AT to Alabama. Here, a look into the process.

An Adventure-Filled Weekend in Southeast Alabama's Coosa County

Despite its low profile, Coosa County offers excellent trails for hiking and superb creeks for kayaking and canoeing.

5 Best State Parks to Hike in Alabama

Alabama may not have a national park in its borders, but its state parks are full of opportunities to explore. Here, 5 Alabama state parks great for hiking.