Cotton Bayou Trailhead: Gateway to Backcountry Bliss
Explore Alabama's Gulf Coast: Hike or bike the scenic, paved trails of the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail, accessible from Cotton Bayou Trailhead.
The Cotton Bayou Trailhead provides access to the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail, a multi-use paved trail system that winds through Gulf State Park in Orange Beach, Alabama [2, 4]. Perfect for walking, biking, and nature watching, this trailhead offers a convenient starting point to explore diverse ecosystems [4, 7].
A brief summary to Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail - Cotton Bayou Trailhead
- Cotton Bayou Trail, Orange Beach, Alabama, 36561, US
- +1251-981-1063
- 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
Local tips
- Bring water, sunscreen, and insect repellent for a comfortable experience on the trail [13].
- Visit the Orange Beach Welcome Center for free maps and guides [13].
- Mornings are less crowded, offering a more peaceful experience [13].
- Keep an eye out for local wildlife, such as alligators and various bird species [2, 3].
- Consider a Segway tour for a unique way to explore the trail [13, 15].
Getting There
-
Walking
From the Cotton Bayou Trailhead parking area, the paved trail is directly accessible. Head north or south to explore different sections of the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail. The Butterfly Garden and Nature Pavilion are located a few miles north [5, 10].
-
Public Transport
The Orange Beach Trolley may offer seasonal service near the trailhead. Check the City of Orange Beach website for schedules and routes. A single ride typically costs $1-$3.
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Ride Share
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Orange Beach. A short trip from the beach or a nearby hotel to the Cotton Bayou Trailhead will likely cost between $10 and $20, depending on demand and distance.
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Parking
Parking is available at the Cotton Bayou Trailhead [2, 10]. Parking at Gulf State Park beach access points, including Cotton Bayou Beach, requires payment [16]. An annual pass for Gulf State Park beach access is $100 [16]. Daily parking rates vary. Check the pay stations (kiosks) for current rates [16].
Discover more about Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail - Cotton Bayou Trailhead
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Orange Beach Water Tower
0.1 km
Discover the vibrant Orange Beach Water Tower, a cultural landmark showcasing local artistry and scenic beauty in Alabama's coastal paradise.
Cotton Bayou Boat Launch
0.3 km
Discover the tranquil Cotton Bayou Boat Launch in Orange Beach, AL, your gateway to fishing, boating, and serene nature experiences.
Palm Point Shopping Plaza
0.4 km
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Romar Lakes
0.6 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Romar Lakes in Orange Beach, Alabama, a perfect getaway for relaxation and beach adventures.
Emporium@C - Coastal Gifts & More
0.7 km
Explore the enchanting Emporium@C in Orange Beach for unique coastal gifts and local artisan treasures that capture the essence of the Gulf Coast.
The Breakers Condominium
0.8 km
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Orange Beach Tattoos
0.8 km
Experience artistry like never before at Orange Beach Tattoos, where your unique story meets skilled craftsmanship in a vibrant seaside setting.
Souvenir City of Orange Beach #2
0.9 km
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Turquoise Place
1.0 km
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Beach Shutters Photography
1.2 km
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Tallulah's Treasures
1.3 km
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Alvin's Island - Orange Beach #22
1.5 km
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Island House Hotel Orange Beach - a DoubleTree by Hilton
1.5 km
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Zeke's Landing and Marina
1.5 km
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Cruisin' Tikis Orange Beach
1.6 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Orange Beach
0.4 km
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Long Bayou
0.4 km
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Cotton Bayou Public Beach Access
0.4 km
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Coastal Beach
0.8 km
Experience the sugar-white sands and emerald waters of Coastal Beach in Orange Beach, Alabama, a perfect Gulf Coast escape.
The Backcountry Trail
0.9 km
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Orange Beach History Museum
1.3 km
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Adventure Island
2.1 km
Orange Beach's top spot for family fun, featuring mini-golf, go-karts, arcades, and the iconic erupting volcano!
Fat Daddy's Arcade
2.1 km
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SanRoc Cay Marina
2.4 km
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Coastal Arts Center of Orange Beach
2.5 km
Discover local art, watch live demonstrations, and create your own masterpiece at this vibrant Gulf Coast arts center. Free admission!
Orange Beach Waterfront Park
2.5 km
Discover Orange Beach Waterfront Park: a scenic escape on Wolf Bay offering fishing, playgrounds, community events, and stunning sunset views. A perfect family destination on the Alabama Gulf Coast.
Alabama Point East
3.3 km
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Dolphins Down Under
3.6 km
Experience the magic of dolphin watching with Dolphins Down Under in Orange Beach. Educational cruises, stunning scenery, and unforgettable memories await!
Sea View Tours
3.6 km
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Orange Beach Welcome Center
3.6 km
Your adventure starts here! Get expert advice, maps, and brochures for an unforgettable Orange Beach vacation on Alabama's Gulf Coast.
Essential places to dine
Carver's Steakhouse
0.3 km
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Chronic Tacos
0.3 km
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Cotton's Restaurant
0.4 km
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Angry Crab Shack
0.4 km
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Rotolo's Pizzeria
0.4 km
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Coastal Orange Beach
0.5 km
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Ristorante Carmelo
0.5 km
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Moe's Original BBQ - Orange Beach
0.6 km
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Stephi Cocktails & Cuisine
1.0 km
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Change of Pace at Turquoise Place (Turquoise Place Guests Only)
1.2 km
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Waffle House
1.2 km
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Shrimp Basket
1.5 km
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Zeke's Restaurant
1.6 km
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Big Mike's Steakhouse - Orange Beach
1.9 km
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Big Fish Restaurant
2.0 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Orange Beach Store
0.4 km
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The Salty Palm
0.4 km
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Coastal Clothing Co.
0.5 km
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Abide Boutique
0.5 km
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Mr. Action Toys and Collectibles
0.6 km
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The Beach Store
0.6 km
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Zavros’s Boutique
0.7 km
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St Charles Place
1.0 km
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Norasheen Inc.
1.0 km
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Cabana 8 at Turquoise Place
1.2 km
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Salt Mercantile
1.2 km
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Surf Style
1.5 km
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Trading Co.Orange Beach
1.5 km
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Pieces Boutique
2.0 km
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Wildflowers Boutique
2.0 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Hurricane Grill & Wings-Orange Beach
0.4 km
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Live Bait Night Club
2.6 km
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Waterfront Bar
2.8 km
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The Tiki
4.1 km
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The Port
4.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Port in Orange Beach, Alabama - the perfect bar for relaxation and socializing.
Island Time Daiquiris & Pizza at The Wharf
4.8 km
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San Bar at the wharf
4.8 km
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Pour Smart Bar
4.8 km
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Red Or White at The Wharf
4.8 km
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Sandshaker at the wharf
4.9 km
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8 Reale OBAL
4.9 km
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Flora-Bama
6.5 km
Discover Flora-Bama: A lively bar and live music venue on Perdido Key, where great food, vibrant atmosphere, and unforgettable experiences await.
Roasted Oak
8.0 km
Discover Roasted Oak, a delightful bar and coffee shop in Gulf Shores, offering exquisite drinks and stunning views in Gulf State Park.
Big Beach Brewing
9.4 km
Explore the craft of local brewing at Big Beach Brewing in Gulf Shores, where every sip tells a story of passion, quality, and community spirit.
The Galway Irish Public House
9.4 km
Discover the heart of Ireland in Gulf Shores at The Galway Irish Public House, a cozy pub with delicious food, drinks, and live entertainment.
