William B. Bankhead National Forest: Alabama's Natural Wonder
Explore Alabama's Bankhead National Forest: Waterfalls, wilderness, and outdoor adventures await in this natural paradise.
Discover the wild beauty of William B. Bankhead National Forest in Alabama, a sprawling natural area with stunning waterfalls, diverse hiking trails, and rich Native American history. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and serenity.
A brief summary to William B. Bankhead National Forest
- Alabama, US
Local tips
- Visit during spring or fall for the best weather and scenery for hiking and camping [3].
- Obtain a map from the ranger station or download an offline version, as GPS can be unreliable in the forest [3].
- Wear appropriate footwear for hiking, as trails can be rooty and uneven [6, 11].
- During hunting season (November 15 to January 31), wear hunter's orange for safety [29].
- Check for alerts and closure orders before your visit [27].
Getting There
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Driving
From Double Springs, Alabama, head north on AL-33. The Bankhead National Forest is easily accessible from AL-33, with multiple access points and trailheads along the highway. Check the specific location of your desired destination (e.g., Sipsey Wilderness Trailhead, Clear Creek Recreation Area) and follow the corresponding road signs. There are no tolls to enter the forest. Parking is available at trailheads and recreation areas, with no parking fees.
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Walking
If you are in the town of Double Springs, Alabama, the Bankhead National Forest is a few miles away. You can head north on AL-33. However, there are no sidewalks, so it is not recommended to walk on this busy highway. It is better to get to a closer access point by car first.
Discover more about William B. Bankhead National Forest
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
William B. Bankhead National Forest
0.0 km
Explore Alabama's Bankhead National Forest: Waterfalls, wilderness, and outdoor adventures await in this natural paradise.
Matt Sandlin Mountain
23.2 km
Experience the natural beauty and historical significance of Matt Sandlin Mountain, a must-visit landmark in Crane Hill, Alabama.
Cheatham Road Historical Marker
26.7 km
Explore the Cheatham Road Historical Marker in Moulton, Alabama, and uncover the stories that shaped the local landscape and heritage.
Crooked Creek Civil War Museum
27.7 km
Explore the Crooked Creek Civil War Museum in Vinemont, Alabama - a unique destination for history lovers and curious travelers.
Cullman Wellness and Aquatics Center
37.6 km
Cullman Wellness and Aquatics Center: Your hub for fitness, fun, and community in Cullman, Alabama.
Big Cedars Nursery
37.7 km
Discover a wide selection of plants, trees, and gardening supplies at Big Cedars Nursery in Cullman, Alabama. Your local horticultural haven.
Cullman County Agricultural
37.9 km
A versatile event venue in Cullman, Alabama, hosting rodeos, concerts, agricultural shows, and community events for all ages.
Zero Gravity
37.9 km
Explore Zero Gravity in Cullman, Alabama for an eclectic mix of clothing, collectibles, and unique gifts that celebrate local culture and charm.
Urban Cookhouse
38.1 km
Fresh, local ingredients meet wood-fired flavor at Urban Cookhouse in Cullman, offering a delicious and casual dining experience.
Shop Around the Corner
38.1 km
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The Corner Soak and Spa
38.1 km
Relax, rejuvenate, and restore your peace of mind at Cullman's premier day spa, specializing in mineral bath soaks and luxurious treatments.
DC Cafe
38.1 km
Experience community and exceptional coffee at DC Cafe in Cullman, Alabama. A welcoming haven for locals and visitors alike.
Shrimp Basket
38.1 km
Enjoy fresh seafood in a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere at Shrimp Basket in Cullman, Alabama. Generous portions and classic flavors await!
Margaronas Cantina Mexican Restaurant
38.2 km
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Monograms Plus
38.2 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Natural Bridge Picnic Area
5.0 km
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Natural Bridge hiking trail
5.0 km
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Sougahoagdee Falls Parking
13.2 km
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Winston County Archives
13.4 km
Discover the captivating history of Winston County, Alabama, at the Winston County Archives in Double Springs. Explore genealogical treasures and historical documents.
Bankhead National Forest
13.5 km
Experience the beauty of Bankhead National Forest in Alabama - a lush paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers with breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife.
Holmes Chapel Falls
15.7 km
Discover a scenic waterfall in Bankhead National Forest with a short, moderately challenging hike. A perfect nature escape in Houston, Alabama.
Coal Mine Falls
16.0 km
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Shangri-La Falls Trailhead
17.1 km
Discover the hidden beauty of Shangri-La Falls Trailhead in Grayson, Alabama – a perfect escape into nature within Bankhead National Forest.
Brushy Lake Dam
17.7 km
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Mize Mills Falls Trailhead
21.3 km
Discover the natural beauty of Mize Mills Falls in Double Springs, Alabama, a perfect spot for hiking and enjoying a refreshing waterfall escape.
Sipsey River Picnic Area
21.3 km
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Mize Mill Falls
21.6 km
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Fall Creek Falls
22.8 km
Discover the natural beauty of Fall Creek Falls in Double Springs, Alabama, a hidden gem within the Sipsey Wilderness.
Borden Trailhead
22.9 km
Explore scenic trails, waterfalls, and natural beauty at Borden Trailhead, your entry point to Alabama's Sipsey Wilderness.
Wolfpen Hunt Camp
23.3 km
Experience rustic camping and hiking adventures in Alabama's Bankhead National Forest at Wolfpen Hunt Camp.
Essential places to dine
Lakeshore Inn Restaurant
5.2 km
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Jack's
14.2 km
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The Grille at Trident Marina
21.8 km
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Logan's Roadhouse
36.1 km
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Puckett's Restaurant- Cullman
36.1 km
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Valley Tavern and Grille
36.2 km
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Cracker Barrel Old Country Store
36.2 km
Experience authentic Southern cuisine at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store in Cullman, Alabama - where comfort food meets charm.
Buenavista Mexican Cantina (Cullman)
36.4 km
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The StashHouse
36.9 km
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Johnny's Bar-B-Q
37.4 km
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Los Compadres
37.6 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors at Los Compadres in Cullman, Alabama - where every dish tells a story.
Rice and Soy
37.7 km
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Wissota Chophouse - Cullman
37.8 km
Discover exquisite flavors at Wissota Chophouse in Cullman - where exceptional steaks meet warm hospitality.
Applebee's Grill + Bar
37.9 km
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Taqueria Las Cebollitas
37.9 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico at Taqueria Las Cebollitas in Cullman - A true culinary gem offering delicious tacos and more!
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
DG Market
11.3 km
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Smith Lake Trade Center
15.6 km
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Reseller Warehouse
26.1 km
Explore Jasper's Reseller Warehouse for unique thrift finds and budget-friendly treasures that capture the essence of sustainable shopping in Alabama.
Wood For You Furniture Outlet & Gifts
30.9 km
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Five Below
31.4 km
Discover a world of fun and affordable treasures at Five Below in Jasper, AL – where everything is $5 or less!
Vintage Trading Post LLC
31.6 km
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Jasper Pickers
31.7 km
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Very Idea Inc.
32.3 km
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Dollar General
32.9 km
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Southern Belle Boutique Cullman Al
33.2 km
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Dollar Tree
33.3 km
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Something More ECC311
33.4 km
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Walmart Supercenter
33.5 km
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Carol's Boutique
33.5 km
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Willow Branch LLC
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Chef Troy's Talk of the Town
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Goldiggers Bar & Grill
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Lakeshore Inn Marina
5.2 km
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The Food Shack
10.6 km
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Vincents Downtown DELI AND BAKERY
13.4 km
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Bankhead Ranger District
13.8 km
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Seymore's Bar-B-Q
14.0 km
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Subway
14.6 km
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Buena Vista
14.7 km
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Sapore Grill
15.1 km
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Maw Bet’s
27.7 km
Experience the best of Southern cuisine at Maw Bet's, Nauvoo's favorite restaurant known for its warm hospitality and delicious dishes.
Rockin' P. BBQ & Catfish
32.5 km
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Cali Baja Grill
32.8 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Baja California at Cali Baja Grill, where Mexican and American cuisines meet in a delightful dining experience.
Burger King
33.4 km
Indulge in delicious flame-grilled burgers and fast-food favorites at Burger King in Haleyville, Alabama, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Guthries
33.4 km
Experience the rich flavors of Southern hospitality at Guthries, where delicious fried chicken meets a warm, inviting atmosphere in Haleyville, Alabama.
