Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail - Cotton Bayou Trailhead
Explore the natural beauty of Alabama's Gulf Coast on this scenic, paved trail through coastal wetlands and diverse ecosystems.
The Cotton Bayou Trailhead provides access to the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail, a multi-use trail system winding through Gulf State Park in Orange Beach, Alabama. This scenic trail offers a paved path through coastal wetlands, perfect for walking, biking, and wildlife viewing.
A brief summary to Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail - Cotton Bayou Trailhead
- Cotton Bayou Trail, Orange Beach, Alabama, 36561, US
- +1251-981-1063
Local tips
- Visit the Orange Beach Welcome Center for free maps and guides on wildlife and trail routes.
- Mornings are less crowded, offering a more peaceful experience.
- Bring water, sunscreen, and insect repellent for a comfortable experience on the trail.
- Be on the lookout for local wildlife, including alligators and various bird species.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Cotton Bayou Trailhead parking area, the trail is immediately accessible. Simply follow the paved path into the wetlands. The trail is relatively flat and easy to navigate, making it suitable for a leisurely stroll. There is no cost to access the trail.
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Driving
The Cotton Bayou Trailhead is located off Highway 161 in Orange Beach. From Perdido Beach Boulevard, head north on AL-161/Orange Beach Boulevard. The trailhead will be on your left, across from the tip of Cotton Bayou and behind the Publix Shopping Plaza. Parking is available at the trailhead. Parking is free. There are no tolls on this route.
Discover more about Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail - Cotton Bayou Trailhead
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Orange Beach Water Tower
0.1 km
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Cotton Bayou Boat Launch
0.3 km
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Palm Point Shopping Plaza
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Romar Lakes
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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
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Souvenir City of Orange Beach #2
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Turquoise Place
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Beach Shutters Photography
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Tallulah's Treasures
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Alvin's Island - Orange Beach #22
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Island House Hotel Orange Beach - a DoubleTree by Hilton
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Zeke's Landing and Marina
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Cruisin' Tikis Orange Beach
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Unmissable attractions to see
Orange Beach
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Long Bayou
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Cotton Bayou Public Beach Access
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Coastal Beach
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The Backcountry Trail
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Orange Beach History Museum
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Adventure Island
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Fat Daddy's Arcade
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SanRoc Cay Marina
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Coastal Arts Center of Orange Beach
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Orange Beach Waterfront Park
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Alabama Point East
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Dolphins Down Under
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Orange Beach Welcome Center
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Lady in the Marina
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Essential places to dine
Carver's Steakhouse
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Chronic Tacos
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Cotton's Restaurant
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Angry Crab Shack
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Rotolo's Pizzeria
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Coastal Orange Beach
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Ristorante Carmelo
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Moe's Original BBQ - Orange Beach
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Stephi Cocktails & Cuisine
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Change of Pace at Turquoise Place (Turquoise Place Guests Only)
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Waffle House
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Shrimp Basket
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Zeke's Restaurant
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Big Mike's Steakhouse - Orange Beach
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Big Fish Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Orange Beach Store
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The Salty Palm
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Coastal Clothing Co.
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Abide Boutique
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Mr. Action Toys and Collectibles
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The Beach Store
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Zavros’s Boutique
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St Charles Place
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Norasheen Inc.
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Cabana 8 at Turquoise Place
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Salt Mercantile
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Surf Style
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Trading Co.Orange Beach
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Pieces Boutique
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Wildflowers Boutique
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Hurricane Grill & Wings-Orange Beach
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Live Bait Night Club
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Waterfront Bar
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The Tiki
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The Port
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Island Time Daiquiris & Pizza at The Wharf
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San Bar at the wharf
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Pour Smart Bar
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Red Or White at The Wharf
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Sandshaker at the wharf
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8 Reale OBAL
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Flora-Bama
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Roasted Oak
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Big Beach Brewing
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The Galway Irish Public House
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