Bee Branch Scenic Area: A Natural Escape
Discover Alabama's natural beauty at Bee Branch Scenic Area: hike through lush forests, explore stunning waterfalls, and witness the majestic 'Big Tree'.
Bee Branch Scenic Area, near Mt. Hope, Alabama, offers a serene retreat into nature with hiking trails and lush greenery. Part of Bankhead National Forest, it's known for its stunning waterfalls, the Sipsey River, and the impressive 'Big Tree,' a massive tulip poplar estimated to be 500 years old.
A brief summary to Bee Branch Scenic Area
- Mt Hope, Alabama, 35651, US
- Monday 7 am-8:30 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-8:30 pm
- Thursday 7 am-8:30 pm
- Friday 7 am-8:30 pm
- Saturday 7 am-8:30 pm
- Sunday 7 am-8:30 pm
Local tips
- Wear appropriate footwear for hiking, as trails can be rocky and uneven.
- Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months, to stay hydrated on the trails.
- Be aware of your surroundings and follow trail markers to avoid getting lost.
Getting There
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Driving
To reach Bee Branch Scenic Area, navigate towards Mt. Hope, AL. From there, follow signs for Bankhead National Forest and the Thompson Creek Trailhead, a common access point for Bee Branch. Note that Forest Service roads can be narrow and unpaved in certain areas. Parking is free at the Thompson Creek Trailhead.
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Walking
From the Thompson Creek Trailhead, several trails lead into the Bee Branch area. The most popular route involves following the trail south to the Sipsey River and Needle's Eye before turning east and then north to the canyon containing the Big Tree and East Bee Branch Falls. This loop is approximately 8 miles. No costs are associated with walking the trails.
Discover more about Bee Branch Scenic Area
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Cheatham Road Historical Marker
11.5 km
Explore the Cheatham Road Historical Marker in Moulton, Alabama, and uncover the stories that shaped the local landscape and heritage.
William B. Bankhead National Forest
28.5 km
Explore Alabama's Bankhead National Forest: Waterfalls, wilderness, and outdoor adventures await in this natural paradise.
Historic Freeman House
43.4 km
Explore the Historic Freeman House in Tuscumbia, Alabama - a captivating landmark showcasing rich history and architectural beauty.
Crooked Creek Civil War Museum
44.9 km
Explore the Crooked Creek Civil War Museum in Vinemont, Alabama - a unique destination for history lovers and curious travelers.
Decatur Mall
47.5 km
Decatur Mall: A long-standing retail destination in Decatur, Alabama, offering a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment for the whole family, with anchor stores and community events.
Chuck E. Cheese
47.5 km
Decatur's premier family fun center with pizza, arcade games, and birthday celebrations for lasting memories.
Matt Sandlin Mountain
49.7 km
Experience the natural beauty and historical significance of Matt Sandlin Mountain, a must-visit landmark in Crane Hill, Alabama.
Fame Recording Studios
49.7 km
Explore Fame Recording Studios, where music legends were born and history was made in the heart of Muscle Shoals, Alabama.
Tuscumbia Historic District
49.8 km
Explore the historical gems of Tuscumbia Historic District, where charming architecture meets vibrant local culture in Alabama.
The Moody Crab
50.4 km
Decatur's premier seafood restaurant, serving fresh catches and flavorful boils in a relaxed, nautical-themed atmosphere.
Funland Mini Golf
50.4 km
Experience classic miniature golf at Funland Mini Golf in Decatur, AL, a family-friendly destination with colorful courses and engaging themes.
Helen Keller Birthplace
50.6 km
Discover the inspiring story of Helen Keller at her Birthplace in Tuscumbia, Alabama—a historical landmark celebrating her remarkable life and achievements.
Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q
50.9 km
Experience world-championship BBQ at Big Bob Gibson's in Decatur, AL, home of the legendary Alabama white sauce and hickory-smoked meats since 1925.
Java Jaay Cafe
51.0 km
Experience Decatur's cozy community hub at Java Jaay Cafe, where expertly crafted coffee and homemade treats create a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Practical Magick AL New Age
51.1 km
Your one-stop shop in Decatur, AL, for spiritual supplies, crystals, herbs, tarot, and New Age essentials for seasoned and novice practitioners alike.
Unmissable attractions to see
Sipsey Wilderness
1.4 km
Discover Alabama's natural wonderland: hiking, waterfalls, and pristine wilderness in the heart of Bankhead National Forest.
Thompson Trailhead
2.1 km
Explore the rugged beauty of Alabama's Sipsey Wilderness. Hiking, waterfalls, and natural rock formations await!
Eye of the Needle / Ship Rock
2.3 km
Discover the majestic Eye of the Needle and Ship Rock in Alabama's Bankhead National Forest. Hike, explore unique rock formations, and camp under the stars.
Braziel Trailhead
4.4 km
Explore the Sipsey Wilderness: Hike or horseback ride into Alabama's natural beauty from Braziel Trailhead in Bankhead National Forest.
Gum Pond Trailhead
4.9 km
Explore the serene trails of Gum Pond Trailhead in Bankhead National Forest, a natural haven near Mt. Hope, Alabama.
Eagle Creek Falls
5.2 km
Discover the serene beauty of Eagle Creek Falls in Alabama's Bankhead National Forest, a hidden gem for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Trailhead for Parker Falls
5.6 km
Discover the serene beauty of Parker Falls in Alabama's Bankhead National Forest, a perfect hike for nature lovers and waterfall enthusiasts.
Randolph Trail Head Parking, Bankhead National Forest
5.7 km
Explore the Sipsey Wilderness! Hiking, waterfalls, and natural beauty await in Bankhead National Forest.
Fall Creek Falls
5.7 km
Discover the natural beauty of Fall Creek Falls in Double Springs, Alabama, a hidden gem within the Sipsey Wilderness.
Trailhead for Eagle Falls
5.8 km
Discover the natural beauty of Alabama at Eagle Falls Trailhead in Bankhead National Forest, a haven for hikers and nature lovers.
Wolfpen Hunt Camp
6.0 km
Experience rustic camping and hiking adventures in Alabama's Bankhead National Forest at Wolfpen Hunt Camp.
KinlockShelter
6.0 km
Explore ancient Native American rock art and scenic trails at Kinlock Shelter, a hidden gem in Alabama's Bankhead National Forest.
Borden Trailhead
6.1 km
Explore scenic trails, waterfalls, and natural beauty at Borden Trailhead, your entry point to Alabama's Sipsey Wilderness.
Mize Mill Falls
6.9 km
Discover the serene beauty of Mize Mill Falls in Alabama's Bankhead National Forest, a hidden gem with a tranquil cascade.
Mize Mills Falls Trailhead
7.2 km
Discover the natural beauty of Mize Mills Falls in Double Springs, Alabama, a perfect spot for hiking and enjoying a refreshing waterfall escape.
Essential places to dine
Jack's
20.1 km
Discover the heart of Southern fast food at Jack's in Double Springs – where delicious breakfasts meet mouthwatering burgers.
Lakeshore Inn Restaurant
24.9 km
Discover Lakeshore Inn Restaurant: where American cuisine meets stunning lakeside views in Double Springs, Alabama.
Chick-fil-A
47.7 km
Savor the flavors of Southern hospitality at Chick-fil-A in Decatur - where every meal is made with care.
Logan's Roadhouse
47.7 km
Experience hearty American cuisine at Logan's Roadhouse in Decatur – where every meal feels like home!
Chili's Grill & Bar
47.7 km
Experience vibrant American and Tex-Mex cuisine at Chili's Grill & Bar in Decatur - perfect for families and casual gatherings.
Applebee's Grill + Bar
47.7 km
Experience American cuisine at its best at Applebee's Grill + Bar in Decatur - where flavor meets family-friendly fun!
L Patron Mexican Grill and Cantina
47.8 km
Savor authentic Mexican cuisine at L Patron Mexican Grill and Cantina in Decatur – where every meal is a festive celebration of flavor!
Chow King Grill & Buffet
47.9 km
Savor an all-you-can-eat adventure at Chow King Grill & Buffet in Decatur - where diverse cuisines meet affordability!
Las Vias - 1000 Beltline Rd Ste. Q
48.0 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors at Las Vias in Decatur, Alabama – where every dish tells a story.
Smokey C's Bar-B-Que & Wings
48.1 km
Experience the authentic taste of Southern barbecue at Smokey C's Bar-B-Que & Wings in Decatur, AL – where flavor meets hospitality.
Wings and seafood
48.2 km
Experience fresh seafood delights in Decatur at Wings and Seafood – where flavor meets Southern charm in every bite.
Serrano's Mexican
48.4 km
Discover the rich flavors of Mexico at Serrano's Mexican in Decatur – where every meal is a fiesta!
Alfonso's Pizza & Italian Restaurant
48.4 km
Savor the taste of Italy at Alfonso's Pizza & Italian Restaurant in Decatur, where every slice tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store
48.7 km
Experience authentic Southern comfort food and unique gifts at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store in Decatur - where every meal feels like home.
The Grille at Trident Marina
49.5 km
Experience exceptional lakeside dining at The Grille at Trident Marina with stunning views and delicious local cuisine.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Wood For You Furniture Outlet & Gifts
11.9 km
Explore the charm of Wood For You Furniture Outlet & Gifts, where unique furnishings meet delightful gifts in Haleyville, Alabama.
Dollar General
17.0 km
Explore Dollar General in Haleyville for great deals on everyday essentials, beauty supplies, and seasonal goods—perfect for budget-conscious travelers!
Walmart Supercenter
17.4 km
Explore Walmart Supercenter in Haleyville: A comprehensive shopping experience with groceries, clothing, electronics, and more.
Dollar Tree
17.5 km
Explore Dollar Tree in Haleyville for unbeatable deals on everything from groceries to party supplies, all at just one dollar each.
Something More ECC311
17.6 km
Explore the unique charm of Something More ECC311 in Haleyville, Alabama, where local crafts and treasures await every visitor.
The Darling Daisy
19.3 km
Discover unique local crafts and stylish finds at The Darling Daisy, the charming boutique in Haleyville, Alabama that captures the essence of Southern hospitality.
Farmers Home Furniture | Haleyville, AL
19.4 km
Discover quality furniture, appliances, and home goods at Farmers Home Furniture in Haleyville, AL – a shopper's paradise for home essentials.
Goar's Supermarket
19.7 km
Discover local flavors and fresh produce at Goar's Supermarket in Haleyville, Alabama, a must-visit for grocery shopping and regional specialties.
Haley House
20.1 km
Explore Haley House in Haleyville, Alabama for exceptional formal wear, personalized styling, and an unforgettable shopping experience.
Elliott True Value
20.4 km
Explore Elliott True Value in Haleyville, Alabama, your go-to destination for DIY supplies, tools, and expert home improvement advice.
Unique Apparel
20.5 km
Explore Unique Apparel in Haleyville for exclusive clothing that captures the essence of local fashion and style.
Mays Wholesale Flowers
20.9 km
Discover the enchanting world of fresh blooms at Mays Wholesale Flowers in Haleyville, Alabama, where quality meets beauty.
Basse Trading Company
21.7 km
Explore the rich history and unique antiques at Basse Trading Company, a hidden gem in Moulton, Alabama.
That’s so cute boutique
21.8 km
Explore unique fashion and accessories at That’s So Cute Boutique, a charming shopping destination in Moulton, Alabama.
Jolly Dans Hardware & General Store
21.9 km
Explore Jolly Dans Hardware & General Store in Haleyville, AL - Your one-stop shop for hardware, building materials, and local treasures.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Rockin' P. BBQ & Catfish
16.1 km
Experience the mouthwatering flavors of Southern barbecue and fresh catfish at Rockin' P. BBQ & Catfish in Haleyville, Alabama.
B and J Cafe
16.6 km
Discover the heart of Southern cuisine at B and J Cafe in Phil Campbell, Alabama, where comfort food and warm hospitality await.
Cali Baja Grill
16.7 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
17.5 km
Indulge in delicious flame-grilled burgers and fast-food favorites at Burger King in Haleyville, Alabama, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Taco Bell
17.5 km
Savor the delicious flavors of Taco Bell in Haleyville, offering fast, affordable Mexican-inspired meals for every taste.
Guthries
17.5 km
Experience the rich flavors of Southern hospitality at Guthries, where delicious fried chicken meets a warm, inviting atmosphere in Haleyville, Alabama.
Bankhead Ranger District
18.7 km
Discover the serene landscapes and vibrant wildlife of Bankhead Ranger District, Alabama's premier outdoor adventure destination.
Cazadores Grill
19.2 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico at Cazadores Grill in Haleyville, where authentic dishes and a warm atmosphere await every food lover.
Sapore Grill
19.3 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Sapore Grill, where fresh ingredients meet traditional recipes in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Haleyville Sno Biz
19.5 km
Experience the sweet and refreshing delights of Haleyville Sno Biz, your go-to destination for scrumptious snow cones and beverages in Alabama.
Restaurante Guatemex
19.6 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Guatemala at Restaurante Guatemex, Haleyville's culinary gem for authentic dishes and warm hospitality.
Russell's Rising Smoke
19.6 km
Discover authentic southern cuisine at Russell's Rising Smoke in Haleyville, where every meal is a celebration of flavor and tradition.
13 Grill
19.6 km
Discover the taste of Alabama at 13 Grill, where grilled perfection meets Southern hospitality in Haleyville.
Don Jose’s Pizza
19.7 km
Experience the authentic taste of pizza at Don Jose’s Pizza in Haleyville, Alabama, where every slice is made with love and fresh ingredients.
Mi Familia Mexican Restaurant
19.7 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors at Mi Familia Mexican Restaurant in Haleyville, AL - a local favorite for delicious cuisine and warm hospitality.
