Trailheads

Catman Trailhead

Catman Trail is 2.8 miles long.

Several sites in the park used by Native Americans, possibly thousands of years ago, and early American settlers from the 1700’s, developed into hunting trails, paths and logging roads. The Backcountry Trail rediscovered these paths, to include the Original Catman Road, and speckled them with amenities. The screened Pavilion is a perfect site for a picnic before wandering through the nearby Butterfly Garden or a peaceful place to gather for a group meeting. The park is also host to several public events throughout the year including various fun runs, half marathons, hayrides and fundraisers.

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Cotton Bayou Trailhead

Cotton Bayou Trail is 1.2 miles long.

Walk on the wild side and visit the Cotton Bayou Trail. The trailhead is located on Hwy 161, across from the tip of Cotton Bayou waterway and behind the Publix Shopping Plaza. This once sandy path nestled in the Gulf State Park has recently been paved to meet the foundations 2013 goal, bringing the vision of the interior network near completion.

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Rosemary Dunes Trailhead

The Rosemary Dunes trail is 2.1 miles long.

Imagine a backcountry filled with lush cattails, wildflowers, tall pines and you, while biking, hiking or jogging along the winding natural habitats of Rosemary Dunes. Catch a glimpse of the American Alligator sunbathing along the banks of the marshes. Keep an eye out for our resident gator “Lefty” or watch for a variety of reptile species who have made their home in our beautiful park.

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Rattlesnake Ridge Trailhead

The Rattlesnake Ridge Trail is 1.7 miles long.

Visit the wet pine flatwoods, scrub oaks and palmettos covering acres of sandy swells. Catch a gopher tortoise forging Rattlesnake Ridge, an armadillo, named for its armored shell, digging for an afternoon snack, or a woodpecker drumming to make its mark. Explore the natural beauty of the trail, and the home it makes to many reptiles and mammals alike, while observing indigenous wildflowers, such as orchids and carnivorous pitcher plants. Spend a day of adventure relishing in the uniqueness of our diverse coastal landscape.

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Orange Beach Sportsplex Trailhead

The trailhead at the Orange Beach Sportsplex  will allow the visitor to access Twin Bridges, Gulf Oak Ridge or Hidden Lake (unpaved) Trails, as well as Al's Parkour Challenge park area. These trails are generally shady, featuring mature live oak maritime forests or pine savannah.

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