Review
Intro
Thirty-six miles of trail across 6,000 acres sit nestled on a hillside above Lake Guntersville, a favorite spot for outdoor enthusiasts. You'll enjoy the scenic vistas from the lodge and several trails. Keep an eye out for bald eagles and take in a waterfall or two while you're there. Reward yourself with a picnic lunch by the lake, or nestled in the woods at the newly converted Bucks Pocket day use area.
What Makes It Great
Incorporating bluffs, waterfalls and winter views into a loop, the Cascade Trail is a great place to start. Cross several rock strewn streams before venturing uphill to meet the Meridith Trail and the Waterfall Trail on the other side before finishing with a bit of a historical tour along the Old Still Path. Continue that thread by venturing across the road and seek out the King's Chapel Cemetery.
A bit disconnected, the Cutchemine Trail offers fantastic fall foliage and views of the backwaters of Lake Guntersville where Town Creek merges. Offering about 5 miles of fantastic waterside walking with little elevation change. This out and back trail rewards you with a rock bottom creek at the end and one of the quietest spots in the park. If it is a great view of the lake you seek, take the 3.5 mile long Tom Bevill Trail, an easy walk following the lay of the land. You can also access the Spring Trail from here, a path of rolling hills through one of the quieter sections of the park. If that's not enough to whet your appetite, the north side of the park offers 12 new miles of trail for equestrians, but hikers are welcome as well. Take a the 5.5 mile out and back trail along Town Creek, with loops highlighting an old mill and homestead along the way. Recently designated a day use area, Bucks Pocket offers fantastic views of Morgan's Cove via the Primitive Trail, and the truly adventurous can take the 2 mile hike out to see 80 ft. waterfalls on the Sauty Creek Trail, offering a great wilderness experience.
Who is Going to Love It
The park offers a host of level easy trails for beginners and family outings, and many guided hikes are led throughout the year. More experienced hikers will appreciate the ruggedness and solitude of the longer loops, and the hidden gems in the new Bucks Pocket day use area.
Directions, Parking, & Regulations
From Huntsville,take highway 431 south for 36 miles, turning left on highway 227. Continue 9 miles and turn left into the state park entrance.
ParkRules:
Stayon trails.
Dogs on a six foot leash.
Bicyclists ride only ontrails or sections of trails that are open to bikes.
Bicyclistsyield to hikers.
Bicyclists 16 & under must wear ahelmet.
Wait two days after rain before riding trails.
Rockclimbers, boulderers, rappellers, & cavers check-in at ParkOffice.
Take only pictures.
Trails close 30 minutes beforesunset.
Park closes at sunset.
A full listing of Park regulations can be obtained from Park Office.
