10 Best Scenic Spots in Alabama

Alabama is a place rich in Southern culture and natural wonders, with a landscape that ranges from deep canyons to flat fields that stretch as far as the eye can see. It's also full of sites of historical interest, with artifacts and significance that date back to Native American tribes or later civil rights struggles. As such, Alabama has something for everyone, from restaurants specializing in authentic soul food to spectacular rivers, rafting or canoeing. There is even a beach for those who prefer the salty air to the pines and hardwoods of the state's many forests. To begin your exploration of this great state, start on one of these favorite Alabama scenic routes and continue from there:

#10 – William B. Bankhead National Forest Tour

Flickr User: Michael Hicks

Start Location: Moulton, Alabama

Final location: Jasper, Alabama

Length: Mile 54

Best driving season: All

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This scenic drive right through the heart of the William B. Bankhead Forest is best taken slowly to enjoy the natural beauty along the way. The forest is known as the "Land of a Thousand Waterfalls" so visitors to the area should definitely stop to walk to one or two of them. It's also a popular place for fishing or canoeing, and the Kinlock Refuge features Native American relics found in the region.

No. 9 - Devil's Backbone

Flickr user: Patrick Emerson.

Start Location: Cherokee, Alabama

Final location: Lauderdale, Alabama

Length: Mile 33

Best driving season: All

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This part of the Natchez Trace, which stretches from the Mississippi to Tennessee, is known as the Devil's Backbone because of its dangerous history full of bandits, wild animals, and unfriendly natives. Today, traveling the route is much safer, and travelers are rewarded with mountain views and other exquisite scenery. Stop by the Tennessee River for a bite to eat by the water and watch the boats and water go by.

No. 8 - Lookout Mountain Parkway.

Flickr user: Brent Moore

Start Location: Gadsden, Alabama

Final location: Mentone, Alabama

Length: Mile 50

Best driving season: All

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With magnificent views of deep gorges, forests and waterfalls at every turn, Lookout Mountain Parkway is a favorite weekend getaway for locals. Stop for a closer look at the region on horseback at the 4,000-acre Shady Grove Dude Ranch or hike one of the many trails around Lookout Mountain. Fishermen will love Lake Weiss, known as the "crappie capital of the world."

No. 7 – Tensou Parkway

Flickr User: Andrea Wright

Start Location: Mobile, Alabama

Final location: Little River, Alabama

Length: Mile 58

Best driving season: All

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The many waterways along this route give travelers ample opportunities for adventures such as fishing and kayaking, or just watching the boats go by. Stop at Blakely State Park to hike the trails or spot the state's many native birds and other wildlife. At Baldwin County Bicentennial Park, visit a 19th-century working farm to learn what life was like in the area many years ago.

No. 6 - Leeds stagecoach route.

Flickr User: Wally Argus

Start Location: Pardy Lake, Alabama

Final location: Moody, A.L.

Length: Mile 17

Best driving season: All

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This route through Leeds began as a Native American trail, but it has played its part in other phases of the country's history as well. Once European missionaries with Cherokee guides established Methodist churches along it, and it was used as a stagecoach in the late 1800s after being enlarged. Today, visitors stop in Leeds for specialty shopping in the historic city center and water sports on the Little Cahaba River.

No. 5 - Nature and history trail "Black Belt".

Flickr user: Cathy Lauer

Start Location: Meridian, Alabama

Final location: Columbus, Alabama

Length: Mile 254

Best driving season: All

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The Black Belt region in Alabama gets its name from the rich black soil that has been used for centuries to grow cotton, and its culture and traditions are the epitome of the Old South. See world-famous quilts at Gee's Bend, sample homemade candy at Priester's Pecans, and visit the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, where civil rights marches have so often taken place. Another notable site along this route is the Old Kahawba Archaeological Park, which chronicles the history of Native Americans in the region.

No. 4 - Barbour County Governors Trail.

Flickr User: Garrick Morgenweck

Start Location: Cleo, Alabama

Final location: Eufaula, Alabama

Length: Mile 38

Best driving season: All

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Designated in 2000 to honor all state governors who hail from Barbour County, this trail is known for its historic sites, farmland, and recreational opportunities. For example, visit the octagonal house that once housed the headquarters of the Union troops. Later, indulge your inner outdoor enthusiast at Blue Springs State Park, where camping, hiking, and water activities await.

No. 3 - Talladega Scenic Road.

Flickr User: Brian Collins

Start Location: Heflin, Alabama

Final location: Lineville, Alabama

Length: Mile 30

Best driving season: All

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Skip the hustle and bustle of Talladega and head straight into the Talladega National Forest on this winding trail. Athletes may enjoy hiking the Pinhoti National Recreation Trail through the mountains, which are characterized by a bluish haze during the summer months due to condensation from the vegetation in the heat. Explore Mount Cheaha on foot or by car, where shops and restaurants await near the summit.

#2 - Alabama Coastline

Flickr user: faungg

Start Location: Grand Bay, Alabama

Final location: Spanish Fort, Alabama

Length: Mile 112

Best driving season: All

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Ocean views are inherently spectacular, but the Alabama coast has a special vibe with its laidback attitude, white sand, and deep south traditions. Observe local wildlife and spot migratory birds at locations such as the Audubon Nature Reserve on Dauphine Island or the Bon Secours Wildlife Sanctuary. For a dose of history and knowledge, stop at the historic Forts Gaines and Morgan near the mouth of Mobile Bay.

No. 1 - Scenic Lane of the Appalachian Highlands.

Flickr user: Evangelio Gonzalez.

Start Location: Heflin, Alabama

Final location: Fort Payne, Alabama

Length: Mile 73

Best driving season: All

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This scenic Appalachian alley passes through verdant forests and passes geological formations and panoramic views travelers won't want to miss. The sections of the route are characterized by rural agricultural lands, where cotton fields are common. Hiking trails can be found at almost every turn, but the trails around Cherokee Rock Village and the wilderness of Dagger Mountain are especially beautiful.