Jeff Friend Trail: A Coastal Nature Escape
Explore the natural beauty of Alabama's Gulf Coast on this accessible trail through diverse ecosystems in Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge.
The Jeff Friend Trail, nestled within the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge in Gulf Shores, Alabama, offers an accessible one-mile loop through diverse coastal habitats [4, 5]. Ideal for birdwatching and wildlife observation, the trail immerses visitors in the serene beauty of Alabama's Gulf Coast [4, 5].
A brief summary to Jeff Friend Trail
- 13900 AL-180, Gulf Shores, Alabama, 36542, US
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Bring binoculars for optimal birdwatching opportunities along the trail [5].
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the trail includes both boardwalk and natural surfaces [4].
- Visit during the cooler months for a more comfortable hiking experience and to avoid peak heat and humidity.
Getting There
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Driving
From central Gulf Shores, head west on AL-180/Fort Morgan Road for approximately 6 miles [4]. The Jeff Friend Trail entrance will be on the left, marked by a sign [4]. Turn into the parking area. Parking is free, but can be limited during peak season [4].
-
Taxi/Ride-Share
From anywhere in Gulf Shores, a taxi or ride-share service (Uber/Lyft) can take you to the Jeff Friend Trail located at 13900 AL-180 [4]. The ride is approximately 6 miles from the city center [4]. Expect to pay around $15-$25 for a one-way trip, depending on demand and surge pricing [4].
Discover more about Jeff Friend Trail
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
WildNative Tours
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Seacrest
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Gulf Shores Alabama
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Souvenir City
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Gulf Shores' iconic souvenir emporium with a giant shark entrance, offering a vast selection of beach-themed merchandise and memorable photo opportunities.
Swift-Coles Historic Home
9.5 km
Explore the historic Swift-Coles Home in Bon Secour, Alabama – a captivating journey through time with stunning architecture and lush gardens.
Pottery Central World Headquarters
10.5 km
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Brett/Robinson Vacation Rentals
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Gulf Shores Welcome Center
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Grass Island
11.1 km
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BeachFlight Aviation
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Harris Vacations
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Gulf State Park Pavillion
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Gulf State Park Nature Center
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Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail - Rosemary Dunes Trailhead
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Gulf State Park
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Unmissable attractions to see
Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center
2.7 km
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Centennial Trail
3.2 km
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Observation Tower
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Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge
3.7 km
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Pine Beach Trail
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Gator Lake Trail
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Mo's Landing Park
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Gulf Shore
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Wedgewood Marble Kids
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Gulf Shores Public Beach
9.2 km
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Kids Park
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Wade Ward Nature Park
9.4 km
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Johnnie Sims Park Pavilion
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Waterville USA/Escape House
9.7 km
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Gulf Shores Museum
9.7 km
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Essential places to dine
Peninsula Restaurant & Grill
1.5 km
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The Beach House Kitchen and Cocktails
6.7 km
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Janino's Pizza
7.4 km
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The Oyster House
8.2 km
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Bahama Bob's Beach Side Cafe
8.4 km
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Lauria's by the Beach
8.7 km
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Burro Azul
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De Soto's Seafood Kitchen
9.1 km
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The Steamer Baked Oyster Bar
9.2 km
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Shrimp Basket
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The Hangout Gulf Shores
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Papa Rocco's
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Original Oyster House Boardwalk
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Sunliner Diner
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Picnic Beach Bar & Grill
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Island Outfitters
8.6 km
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Village Mercantile
8.8 km
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Gulf Shores Souvenirs & Gifts
9.2 km
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Alvin's Island - Gulf Shores #19
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Purple Octopus
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T Shirt Factory Inc
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Gulf Shores Beach Trading Company
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Gulf Shores Jerky Store
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Surf Style 206: Surf, Swimwear, Sporting Goods in Gulf Shores
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One-Stop-Fun-Shop
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Island Girl Jewelry & Souvenirs
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Surf Style 207: Surf, Swimwear, Sporting Goods in Gulf Shores
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Tiki Island Boutique
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Geez Louise Boutique
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Beach Bazaar
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The deck
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Ice House Taproom
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High Tide Daiquiris & Mimosas LLC
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Mudbugs Dive Bar
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Hooters
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Sassy Bass Island Grill
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The Galway Irish Public House
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Big Beach Brewing
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Roasted Oak
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Hibas Gulf Shores Karaoke & Arcade Bar
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Bar 45
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The Tavern of Bon Secour
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BierShackTaproom
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50/50 lounge
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8 Reale OBAL
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