Take a Hike and Get Started on the Lake Martin Hiking Challenge
It is such a beautiful time to be outside enjoying the trails, and we have a variety of them for you to try. They are all unique, and have varying levels of difficulty. Hike just for fun, or start the Lake Martin Hiking Challenge-it is free to participate! If you hike a portion of all of the trails, you will earn a free patch and certificate. Get information on all of the trails, and the downloadable hiking log here.
Visit Horseshoe Bend National Military Park
This was not only the final battle of the Creek War, but it also ultimately resulted in the United States government obtaining over 23 million acres of land through the signing of the Treaty of Fort Jackson in 1814. This park offers so much history. You can walk the trail to see historical sites, or drive in your car through the sites and listen to the stories on their audio tour. They also have a newly redesigned museum for you to visit. There is no charge to visit this park, and they do have a Junior Ranger program so the kiddos can earn their badge. Learn more about the park here.
Check Out The Activities At Wind Creek State Park
Wind Creek State Park offers a variety of nature programming each month including changes to meet and learn about wildlife, take guided nature hikes, and participate in arts and crafts projects. You can keep up with all of their monthly events on our event calendar. All of these activities are 100% free, but if you are not camping at the park, it does cost just a few bucks to get a day pass to get in for the day. However, while you are there, you can also climb the silo, hang on the beach, play in the playground, and fish from the pier.
Go Geocaching
Think of this as a giant, worldwide scavenger hunt. It involves hiking, tracking, and following clues to find secret containers that are hidden all around you. There are over 200 geocaches in the Lake Martin area alone, and it is a blast to get out with your family and friends and put your detective skills to work. Learn more about geocaching here.
Go Birdwatching
Did you know there are over 400 species of birds that you can see in Alabama? There’s alot that you can actually see in the Lake Martin area, as the Piedmont Plateau Birding Trail runs right through here and has some pretty cool places to visit here. Birdwatching is free and it is very easy to get started. For tips on going birding, and learning how to identify birds by sight and sound, go here.
