The Hugh S Branyon Backcountry Trail system was developed cooperatively by the City of Orange Beach and Gulf State Park (Alabama State Parks Division) to provide non-consumptive recreational opportunities through one of the last remaining intact maritime forests along coastal Alabama. In addition to being a preserve for many of the area's native wildlife, this remnant natural area serves as a lifeline for millions of migratory birds each spring and fall by providing essential food and shelter resources, thereby making the birding potential excellent on any given visit.
Over 13.5 miles of paved trails provide access from six entry points to a diversity of coastal habitats representative of the maritime forest including sandy oak hammocks, Longleaf sand ridge, freshwater marsh, pine flatwoods, relict dune swales, seepage swamps and a pitcher plant bog. Interpretive signs placed along each trail identify many of the natural features of the maritime forest.
Note: the trails have been substantially expanded with the expansion of the state park.
Contact Hugh S Branyon Backcountry Trails
Contact Hugh S Branyon Backcountry Trails
PO Box 458
Orange Beach, AL 36561
Phone: 251-981-1180
Service Area
