Conecuh Trail

16375 U.S. Hwy. 29
Andalusia, AL 36420

Backpacking in south Alabama? You bet! The Conecuh Trail, located within Conecuh National Forest, has been described as the perfect "starter" trail for beginners and families who want to experience backpacking. Low, rolling hills make hiking this 20-mile trail easy enough for the younger members of your family, but with enough natural beauty to keep even the most die-hard backpacker coming back.

Located just north of the Florida state line near Pensacola and south of Andalusia, AL, the Conecuh meanders through stands of towering longleaf pines, past cypress swamps and ponds, and the blue waters of Blue Spring.

There are numerous side trails that branch off of the Conecuh, giving hikers quick exits if necessary, but also providing day hikers with a variety of options for creating interesting loop trails through the forest. The two most prominent loop trips are the 12-mile North Loop, which is highlighted by the cypress ponds Gum and Mossy, and the 5.4-mile Five Runs Loop that takes hikers to the beautiful aqua-blue waters of Blue Springs, a favorite swimming hole for locals and backpackers alike.

Directly in the center of the Conecuh Trail is Open Pond, a large recreation area that actually consists of three nearby ponds, a bathhouse and campground.