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Rosemary Dunes Trailhead: Gateway to Backcountry Bliss

Explore Alabama's Gulf Coast: Hike or bike the scenic Rosemary Dunes Trail, a gateway to Gulf State Park's natural beauty and wildlife.

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The Rosemary Dunes Trailhead provides access to the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail, a multi-use paved trail system within Gulf State Park. This trailhead invites exploration of diverse ecosystems, from coastal dunes to shady pine forests, offering a scenic escape for walkers, bikers, and nature enthusiasts in Orange Beach, Alabama.

A brief summary to Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail - Rosemary Dunes Trailhead

  • 24037 Perdido Beach Blvd, 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
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Bring water and snacks, especially during warmer months, as the trail can get hot and humid.
  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking or biking on paved surfaces.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and watch out for wildlife, such as alligators, snakes, and other animals.
  • Visit the Butterfly Garden and Nature Pavilion near the trail's hub for a colorful and educational experience.
  • Consider renting a bike to explore more of the extensive trail system.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the intersection of Perdido Beach Boulevard and Alabama State Route 161, head east on Perdido Beach Boulevard. The Rosemary Dunes Trailhead will be on your right, approximately 0.3 miles from the intersection. Look for the trailhead sign and parking area. The path from the parking area to the trailhead is paved and easily accessible.

  • Ride-Sharing

    Request a ride from a service like Uber or Lyft to 24037 Perdido Beach Blvd, Orange Beach, AL 36561. This address will take you directly to the Rosemary Dunes Trailhead. The driver can drop you off in the parking area adjacent to the trailhead.

  • Driving

    From Alabama State Route 59, turn east onto Perdido Beach Boulevard (Alabama State Route 182). Continue east for approximately 7 miles. The Rosemary Dunes Trailhead will be on your right, with a sign marking the entrance. Parking is available at the trailhead. Parking at Gulf State Park beach access points costs money. An annual pass for parking at Gulf State Park beach access is $100. The pass can be purchased at the Park Headquarters. Veterans receive free parking with a decal from Park Headquarters.

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Discover more about Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail - Rosemary Dunes Trailhead

The Rosemary Dunes Trailhead marks the beginning of an adventure into the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail, a nationally recognized recreational haven in the heart of Alabama's Gulf Coast. Named after former Gulf State Park Superintendent Hugh S. Branyon, who envisioned improved access to nature, the trail system has become a beloved destination for both residents and visitors. This trailhead, located on Perdido Beach Boulevard in Orange Beach, provides access to over 28 miles of paved, ADA-accessible trails that wind through Gulf State Park's diverse ecosystems. As you embark on the Rosemary Dunes Trail, you'll be immersed in a relict dune scrub environment, home to unique plant and animal life, including the endangered Alabama beach mouse and gopher tortoise. Keep an eye out for an eagle's nest high in the trees. The Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail isn't just a single path, but a network of interconnected trails, each offering its own distinct experience. From the Rosemary Dunes Trail, you can connect to other trails like the Gulf Oak Ridge Trail, which meanders through a maritime forest, or the Twin Bridges Trail, which leads to a pitcher plant bog and a parkour course. The trail system is a collaborative effort between the City of Orange Beach, Gulf State Park, and the City of Gulf Shores. It has evolved from early hunting paths and logging roads into a premier recreational destination, offering a blend of natural beauty and outdoor activities. Whether you're seeking a leisurely walk, a challenging bike ride, or a chance to spot local wildlife, the Rosemary Dunes Trailhead is the perfect starting point for exploring the wonders of the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail.

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