April Hikes- "From the Deepest Canyon to the Highest Mountain in Alabama!"

04/06/2012

DeSoto Scout Trail Interpretive Spring Hike

Join us on this great hike! It is a wonderful time to get out there and enjoy early spring on the DeSoto Scout Trail, which runs along the West fork of Little River. This will be a moderate to strenuous hike along rough & rocky terrain. If you are not familiar with the DST, it connects two of the finest parks in the State: Little River Canyon National Preserve and DeSoto State Park. The trail follows the West Fork of Little River and traverses a varied terrain of ridges, valleys, fern glades, rock formations, and waterfalls, beside deep pools, riffles, through rhododendron tunnels, creek crossings, swimming holes, and sandy stretches. The DST is moderately difficult. This section is approximately 6.5 miles, is rocky in places and appropriate footwear is recommended. Bring snacks & plenty of water along, as well as a hiking stick. We will meet in the pool parking area at DeSoto State Park, and caravan to the Backcountry Trailhead. 

Date: Saturday, April 7, 2012 

Where: Meet in DeSoto State Park, Pool Parking Lot (Across the road from DSP’s Country Store-Pool area is to the left) 

Time: 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. 

Fee: Free to the public. For any details, contact Brittney Hughes at 256.997.5025 or email Brittney.Hughes@dcnr.alabama.gov 


TAKE A HIKE: Early Spring Hike at DeSoto State Park 

One of the most beautiful times of the year at DeSoto State Park! Join DSP Staff on an easy meandering hike along the ADA-Accessible Azalea Cascade Boardwalk Trail to see early blooming-species of plants. This is a Fresh Air Family/Scale Back Alabama event. 

Date: Saturday, April 14, 2012 

Where: Meet at the Nature Center (Next to DeSoto’s Country Store)  

Time: 10:00-12:00 

Fee: Free to the public; registration appreciated but not required. Great for all ages!  For any details, contact Brittney Hughes at 256.997.5025 or email Brittney.Hughes@dcnr.alabama.gov 


TAKE A HIKE: Spring Stream Ecology Hike 

Join JSU’s stream ecologist, Dr. Lori Tolley-Jordan for an interpretive hike along Shoal Creek in the Talladega National Forest. Learn about all of the tiny wonderful creatures and plants that inhabit Alabama’s streams. 

Date: Saturday, April 14, 2012 

Where: Meet at the Shoal Creek Ranger Station (near Heflin, AL).  Please bring a daypack with plenty of water/snacks & wear comfortable shoes/clothes and (optional) prepare to WADE IN THE WATER!! Not recommended for children under 8 years of age.

Time: 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. 

Fee: $5 per person; pre-registration required by Wednesday April 11th Call 256-782-5697 or email rmorrison@jsu.edu for more information or to pre-register; visit www.jsu.edu/epic for more programs and details.