Red Mountain: Birmingham's Iron Heart
Explore Birmingham's iconic Red Mountain: Hike through history, discover stunning views, and experience the legacy of the Magic City's iron ore heritage.
Red Mountain, a prominent ridge dividing Birmingham, Alabama, is steeped in history and natural beauty. Once the heart of the city's iron ore mining industry, it now offers scenic hiking trails, historical remnants, and stunning views of the Birmingham skyline. Explore the legacy of the 'Magic City' and its connection to the rich red ore that shaped its destiny.
A brief summary to Red Mountain
- Birmingham, Five Points South, Alabama, US
Local tips
- Wear sturdy shoes suitable for hiking on uneven terrain. Some trails have rocky sections and exposed roots.
- Bring water and snacks, especially if you plan on hiking for an extended period. There are limited concessions within the park.
- Download a trail map before you go, as cell service can be spotty in some areas of the park.
- Visit during the spring or fall for the most pleasant weather. Summer can be hot and humid.
- Check the Red Mountain Park website for information on special events, trail closures, and seasonal hours.
Getting There
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Driving
If arriving by car from downtown Birmingham, take US-31 S/Elton B Stephens Expy. Continue on US-31 S, then take the Lakeshore Parkway exit. Follow Lakeshore Parkway for approximately 3 miles, then turn right onto Frankfurt Drive. The park entrance is at the end of the street. Parking is free. Note that parking can be limited during peak hours.
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Public Transport
While there isn't a direct bus route to the park entrance, you can take a MAX bus to a nearby stop on Lakeshore Parkway and then walk or take a short ride-share to the Frankfurt Drive entrance. A one-way fare on MAX is $1.50, or $0.75 for seniors (62+) and individuals with disabilities. Ride-share from a Lakeshore Parkway bus stop to the park entrance will cost approximately $8-$12.
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Walking
If you are in the vicinity of Homewood or along Lakeshore Parkway, you can walk to Red Mountain Park. From Lakeshore Parkway, turn onto Frankfurt Drive and follow it to the park entrance. Be aware that this is a moderately long walk, so wear comfortable shoes and bring water. There are no sidewalks on Frankfurt Drive near the park.
Discover more about Red Mountain
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Five Points South Historical Marker
1.7 km
Discover the historical essence of Birmingham at Five Points South Historical Marker, a vibrant symbol of the city's rich past and cultural evolution.
Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.’s ‘Letter From Birmingham Jail’ Marker
2.0 km
Explore the profound legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at the historic 'Letter from Birmingham Jail' Marker, a cornerstone of America's civil rights movement.
Dread River Distilling Company
2.7 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Dread River Distilling Company in Birmingham, AL, where craft spirits meet culinary excellence in a lively atmosphere.
The Jordan Home (Dr. Mortimer Jordan)
2.9 km
Explore the rich history of Birmingham at The Jordan Home, a stunning historical landmark showcasing the life of Dr. Mortimer Jordan.
The Woodward Building
3.1 km
Discover Birmingham's first skyscraper, a landmark of the 'Heaviest Corner on Earth,' showcasing Chicago-style architecture and rich history.
Alabama Peanut Co.
3.1 km
Discover the flavors of Birmingham at Alabama Peanut Co., where history meets Southern cuisine in a charming setting.
Historic 4th Avenue Business District
3.3 km
Discover Birmingham's Historic 4th Avenue Business District: A vibrant hub of Black commerce and culture during segregation, now a revitalized landmark in the Civil Rights District.
Civil Rights Freedom Riders Marker
3.4 km
Commemorating the courageous Freedom Riders and their pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement at the site of the former Trailways Bus Station.
The Old Mill
4.2 km
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Alabama Sports Hall of Fame
4.4 km
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Avondale Park Historic District
4.9 km
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HIGHLAND HISTORIC DISTRICT
5.6 km
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Birmingham Historic Touring Company
6.5 km
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Oldest house in Shades Valley/Irondale Furnace Commissary
6.7 km
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The Historic Bethel Baptist Church
7.3 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Vulcan Park and Museum
1.0 km
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Breakout Games - Birmingham
1.5 km
Immersive escape room adventures in Birmingham, AL. Crack codes, solve puzzles, and escape the ordinary with friends and family!
Samuel Ullman Museum
1.8 km
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Birmingham Zoo
2.3 km
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Eddie Murphy's Head
2.5 km
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Negro Southern League Museum
2.5 km
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Railroad Park Foundation
2.6 km
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Birmingham Botanical Gardens
2.8 km
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Heaviest Corner On Earth
3.1 km
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“Before I die” wall
3.1 km
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Locked In: The Birmingham Escape Game
3.1 km
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McWane Science Center
3.2 km
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Eddie Kendrick Memorial Park
3.3 km
A soulful tribute to Eddie Kendricks and The Temptations, where music and memory intertwine in the heart of Birmingham's historic district.
Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument
3.4 km
Explore the pivotal sites of the Civil Rights Movement at the Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument, a powerful testament to the fight for equality and justice in America.
Kelly Ingram Park
3.4 km
Explore Kelly Ingram Park in Birmingham, a historic landmark of the Civil Rights Movement, featuring powerful sculptures and offering a poignant journey through America's struggle for equality and justice.
Essential places to dine
Galley & Garden
2.0 km
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Chez Lulu
2.3 km
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Habitat Feed & Social
2.8 km
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Gianmarco's Restaurant
2.8 km
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Jack Brown's Beer & Burger Joint Birmingham
3.1 km
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Bricktop's
3.2 km
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OvenBird
3.4 km
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Blueprint on 3rd
3.7 km
Experience exquisite American cuisine at Blueprint on 3rd in Birmingham - where tradition meets innovation in every dish.
The Rougaroux
4.3 km
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SAW’s Soul Kitchen
5.0 km
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Martin's Bar-B-Que Joint
7.0 km
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The Filling Station Bham
7.1 km
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Mudtown Eat & Drink
7.1 km
Experience the best of Southern cuisine at Mudtown Eat & Drink in Birmingham – where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
Foodbar
7.2 km
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Satterfield's Restaurant
7.5 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Shea Davis Boutique
1.3 km
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Soca Clothing
1.3 km
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Alabama Goods
1.5 km
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Hanna Antiques Mall
2.7 km
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Stella Blu
2.8 km
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A'Mano
2.8 km
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Mountain High Outfitters
5.5 km
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Cahaba Village
5.5 km
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Urban Suburban Antiques
7.1 km
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Sojourns
7.1 km
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Second Hand Rose
7.2 km
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Clover + Bee
7.2 km
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Fun Stuff
7.3 km
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At Your Imagination
7.3 km
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Lizard Thicket
7.9 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Oak Hill Bar & Grill
1.4 km
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Red Lion Lounge
1.6 km
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Black Market Bar + Grill
1.8 km
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The Upper Deck
2.1 km
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Key Circle Commons
2.3 km
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StirCrazy
3.1 km
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Pilcrow Cocktail Cellar
3.1 km
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House of Found Objects
3.3 km
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Carrigan's Public House [21+ Only]
3.4 km
Discover Carrigan's Public House, a premier gastropub in Birmingham, offering a unique blend of gourmet dining and lively bar experiences for adults only.
![Carrigan's Public House [21+ Only]](https://evendo-location-media.s3.amazonaws.com/BarImages/7367605d-795a-46b6-ae50-1825e1d76fb0)
Mayawell Bar
3.5 km
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Juniper
4.2 km
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The Marble Ring
4.9 km
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The Ridge Eat & Drink
7.5 km
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Barrister's Tavern
8.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and karaoke fun at Barrister's Tavern, the ultimate bar in Vestavia Hills, Alabama.
Black Market
8.8 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Black Market Grill in Birmingham, Alabama, where delicious food meets a lively atmosphere for every occasion.
