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Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail - Rosemary Dunes Trailhead

Explore Alabama's Gulf Coast ecosystems on this award-winning, multi-use trail system perfect for hiking, biking, and nature observation.

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Explore the natural beauty of Alabama's Gulf Coast on the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail. This trailhead provides access to over 28 miles of paved trails winding through diverse ecosystems, perfect for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing.

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 sunscreen, as shade can be limited in some areas of the trail.
  • Keep an eye out for wildlife, especially alligators near marshy areas; observe from a safe distance.
  • Consider visiting the Butterfly Garden and Nature Pavilion located at the hub of the trail system.
  • Take advantage of the many entry points and parking areas for convenient access to the trail.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Rosemary Dunes Trailhead is located at 24037 Perdido Beach Blvd, Orange Beach, AL 36561. From Perdido Beach Boulevard, simply head to the trailhead parking area. The trail is easily accessible from the parking lot.

  • Driving

    From Orange Beach, follow Perdido Beach Boulevard (AL-182) to 24037 Perdido Beach Blvd. The Rosemary Dunes Trailhead will be on the Gulf State Park side of the road. Parking is available at the trailhead. Parking is free.

  • Ride-sharing

    Request a ride to the Rosemary Dunes Trailhead at 24037 Perdido Beach Blvd, Orange Beach, AL 36561. The driver can drop you off directly at the trailhead parking area. A ride from central Orange Beach will typically cost around $10-$15.

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

The Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail, named after former Gulf State Park Superintendent Hugh Branyon, offers a unique opportunity to explore the diverse ecosystems of Alabama's Gulf Coast. The Rosemary Dunes Trailhead provides access to a network of over 28 miles of paved, multi-use trails suitable for walking, running, biking, and rollerblading. Established in 2003, the trail system connects Gulf State Park with the cities of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. The Rosemary Dunes Trail itself meanders through a relict dune scrub ecosystem, showcasing 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 trail system has been recognized as the top recreational trail in the USA Today 10Best Readers' Choice Awards for three years running. The trail passes through nine distinct ecosystems, including longleaf sand ridges, coastal dunes, live oak maritime forests, pine flatwoods, freshwater marshes, and coastal hardwood swamps. Visitors can encounter a variety of wildlife, such as alligators, deer, bobcats, turtles, and numerous bird species. The trail is ADA accessible, ensuring everyone can enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

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