Tuscaloosa, AL Adventure Stories | RootsRated

Hiking Alabama's Colleges

Universities and colleges throughout Alabama have miles of hiking trails open to the public.

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.

The 650-Mile Alabama Trail: Coming Soon to a Town Near You

It's still a ways off, but the Alabama Trail is poised to connect existing trails and become a 650-mile mecca of hiking in Alabama. Here's what to know now.

Where to Eat After a Day in the Alabama Outdoors

After adventuring all day in Alabama's great outdoors, digging into some tasty food (and drink) is a fine reward. Here, our picks for where to go.

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.

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.

Pre- and Post-Game Day Adventures Around Alabama

You don't have to sacrifice adventurous weekends when football season rolls around. Here, great pre- and post-game day options for getting outdoors around Alabama.

Waterfalls and Wilderness: Bikepacking Bankhead National Forest

Bikepacking to Bankhead National Forest is an 80-mile, two-wheeled adventure, with wilderness and waterfalls awaiting.

5 Awesome Alabama Outdoor Destinations You (Probably) Haven’t Heard Of

From off-the-beaten-path trails to a canyon alive with bioluminescence, these fascinating Alabama outdoor destinations are worth getting to know.

Chasing Waterfalls at Chewacla State Park

Chewacla State Park is best known for its stunning waterfalls, but its mountain biking, hiking, and camping are all worth exploring, too.

5 Photo-Worthy Outdoor Spots in Alabama

Former industrial sites, star-filled skies, and utopian waterfalls are just a few of the photo-friendly outdoor spots in Alabama.

Where to Paddleboard in Alabama: 5 Sweet SUP Spots

From spots on the Gulf Coast to pristine lakes, here's a handy guide on where to paddleboard in Alabama.

A Guide to a Cullman Summer Outdoor Getaway

The formerly dry town beckons with hiking and biking trails, plus new options for post-adventure pints. Here's how to do a weekend in Cullman.

A Guide to the Perfect Outdoor Weekend in Florence AL

Its Italian sister might have serious arts cache, Florence AL has plenty for adventurers. Here's how to do an outdoorsy weekend in Florence.

Alabama Bikepacking: How to Tackle Lake Lurleen State Park

Long-distance self-supported bike trips are cranking into high gear. Here, tips on Alabama bikepacking in Lake Lurleen State Park.

5 of the Best Waterfalls in Alabama

From underground behemoths, tales of tragic love, to year-round cascades, here are five of the best waterfalls in Alabama.

5 Great Outdoor First Date Ideas in North Alabama

Dinner and a movie? Ho hum. Instead, prepare to really impress that certain someone with these 5 great outdoor first date ideas in Alabama.

The 5 Best Lakes in Alabama for a Summer Dip

Beat the heat this summer with a dip in the best lakes in Alabama, some complete with hiking, mountain biking, and camping.

Multi-Day Adventures on the Bartram Canoe Trail

The 5 Rivers Delta in southern Alabama is paddler's paradise. Here's how to plan an overnight trip along the Bartram Canoe Trail.

The 4 Best Camping Spots to Enjoy the Fall Around Tuscaloosa

Enjoy the fall in Tuscaloosa at these scenic camping spots with rugged trails, clear water and brilliant autumn colors.

Nature and Wildflower Hikes in Alabama: 4 To Check Out This Spring

Virginia bluebells, mountain laurel, and wild phlox: Prepare for blooms a plenty on these wildflower hikes in Alabama perfect for spring.

Plan Your Next Big Cycling Adventure in Alabama

Alabama is filled with bike routes and historical destinations for your next big pedaling trip. Plan now for this year’s cycling adventure.

7 Ways to Spend a Summer Day in Tuscaloosa

Looking to enjoy the outdoors in Tuscaloosa? Here are 7 places to run, bike, paddle and hike where you won't be disappointed.

5 Hidden Outdoor Gems Within 60 Miles of Tuscaloosa

Tuscaloosa is just a stone's throw away from some of Alabama's best hidden outdoor gems. Here are five within 60 miles of the city.