Limestone Rail Trail

This Alabama Rails-to-Trails project is quickly becoming a popular stop and it's easy to see why. There is plenty to take in along the 8.8-mile path that was once part of the Tennessee and Alabama Central Railroad.

The trailhead in Elkmont is located at the town's city hall. A restored railroad depot here now houses the town’s community center and harks back to the time of the railroad line. This location is actually the center of the trail. From here, non-motorized users can travel the gravel path either north toward Veto, AL, or south toward Hays Mill.

Hiking to the south you will pass the site of the Civil War Battle of Sulphur Creek Trestle. This was a Union fort constructed to protect the North's supply lines leading into Chattanooga. In September 1864, Confederate General Bedford Forrest had one goal in mind – to destroy the fort. By the end of the battle, 200 Union troops, including those of the 111th U.S. Colored Infantry, had been killed. The Union was forced to surrender.

Traveling to the north you will cross over a scenic wooden bridge that is framed with the beautiful north Alabama countryside.

No matter which direction you travel, the trail travels through wetlands ripe with wildlife and a favorite location for bird watchers who keep their eyes peeled for one of hundreds of different types of birds that flock to this area including the great blue heron.