Description
- Alabama's four national forests, the Bankhead, Conecuh, Talladega, and Tuskegee National Forests encompass over 664,000 acres of public land. These Forests stretch across portions of the Cumberland Plateau, Appalachian Mountains, Piedmont and Coastal Plain. These diverse lands range in elevation from over 2,000 feet in the Talladega National Forest, down to only 100 feet above sea level in the Conecuh National Forest. High overlooks, rolling hills, and tree-studded flat land are among the contrasting terrains in the forests. Two wilderness areas are located within the national forests. The 25,002-acre Sipsey Wilderness in the Bankhead National Forest, is the second largest wilderness area east of the Mississippi. The 7,245-acre Cheaha Wilderness in the Talladega National Forests offers high elevations, with numerous overlooks for panoramic views of east-central Alabama.Alabama has no National Parks but does have the Horseshoe Bend National Military Park, the Russell Cave National Monument, the Little River Canyon National Preserve, and the Tuskegee Institute National Historic Site.
Recreation - Campers will find campground with all levels of facilities. Hikers enjoy an extensive network of trails, with some of the pathways crisscrossing two designated wilderness areas. There are roads for quiet drives with far-reaching scenic views and special walk-in areas designed for seeing wildlife. Boaters and water skiers can enjoy large, clean lakes, which have enough quiet coves to satisfy anglers as well. Park sites offer opportunities to view sites of historic and geologic interest. Climate - Much of Alabama receives nearly 60 inches of rain each year. The highest amount of rain reaches the region as afternoon thunderstorms in July, August and September. Summers are extremely hot and humid with temperatures frequently reaching above 100 degrees F. Summer nights cool slightly and provide a good time to travel through the region. Winter temperatures are mild, rarely dipping below 40 degrees with the humidity level at its lowest in November and December. Spring and fall are very pleasant times to visit the region. Spring brings mild temperatures and blooming trees and flowers. During the fall temperatures range from 65 to 85 degrees F with low humidity levels. Northern Alabama is generally cooler than the south due to its higher elevations. Location -
Alabama's National Forests and its National Parks, which include an Historic Site, a Military Park, a Monument and a Preserve, are scattered throughout the state. The largest concentration of these areas is in the north.
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