The best walks and hikes in Franklin County
5.0
(8)
34
hikers
12
hikes
Hiking in Franklin County, Alabama, offers diverse outdoor experiences within a landscape characterized by significant waterways, dense woodlands, and unique geological formations. The region features the Sipsey Wilderness, known for its canyons, waterfalls, and ancient forests, as well as Tishomingo State Park with its rock outcroppings and creeks. Bear Creek Lakes provide clean recreational waters, contributing to a varied terrain suitable for exploration.
Best hiking trails in Franklin County
- The most popular hiking route is Wilderness Loop Trail — Sipsey…
Last updated: May 17, 2026
7
hikers
9.75km
02:43
180m
170m
Embark on a moderate hike through the Cane Creek Canyon Nature Preserve, where you'll discover a landscape rich with rugged sandstone canyons and pristine hardwood forests. The trail, spanning 6.1…
3
hikers
18.3km
04:52
190m
190m
Embark on a moderate hike through the Sipsey Wilderness on the Thompson Creek, Sipsey, Bunyan Hill, and Northwest Wild Horse Loop. This route spans 11.4 miles (18.3 km) and involves…
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1
hikers
9.16km
02:25
60m
120m
Embark on the Bee Branch Trail for a moderate hiking adventure through the wild and natural setting of William B. Bankhead National Forest. This route spans 5.7 miles (9.2 km)…
5.0
(4)
8
hikers
11.3km
03:04
160m
160m
Embark on the Big Tree Short Cut and Needles Eye loop, a moderate 7.0-mile (11.3 km) hike through Alabama's remote Sipsey Wilderness. You will navigate lush green forests, rocky terrain,…
5.0
(1)
6
hikers
3.53km
00:55
30m
30m
Embark on an easy hike along the Outcroppings Trail, a 2.2-mile (3.5 km) loop that winds through the serene woods and alongside a tranquil creek. You will experience a gentle…
1
hikers
14.2km
03:46
140m
140m
Embark on the Rippey - Randolph Wild Hiking Trails loop, a moderate 8.8-mile (14.2 km) hike that takes approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes to complete. You will gain 471…
5.0
(2)
3
hikers
5.85km
01:33
60m
60m
Explore the CCC Camp Trail, an easy hiking route that winds for 3.6 miles (5.9 km) through Tishomingo State Park. You will experience a gentle elevation gain of 183 feet…
1
hikers
34.1km
09:04
360m
360m
Embark on the Wilderness Loop Trail for a challenging hike through Alabama's Sipsey Wilderness. This difficult route spans 21.2 miles (34.1 km) and involves a total elevation gain of 1169…
5.0
(1)
2
hikers
11.9km
03:20
240m
240m
Embark on the Bunyan Hill and East Bee Branch Canyon Loop, a moderate hiking route spanning 7.4 miles (11.9 km) with an elevation gain of 795 feet (242 metres). You…
2
hikers
4.16km
01:06
50m
40m
Embark on the easy Saddleback Ridge loop, a pleasant hike spanning 2.6 miles (4.2 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 148 feet (45 metres). You can expect to complete…
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Tips from the Community
Haynes Lake is a freshwater reservoir stocked with fish in Tishomingo State Park. Boats are allowed, but recently water levels have been pretty low. There is a trail traveling around part of the lake, and there is a large campground (reservations required) near the waters.
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CCC Camp Trail in Tishomingo State Park is a pretty rocky and rooty trail, but it isn't too hilly, and it's lined with different plant life. It follows the creek for a little while before tucking into the trees and boulders of the forest. It connects to the Bear Creek Trail, which runs right along the creek the whole way.
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Pioneer Cabin offers a rustic feel to the woods; it was built through the existence of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s and has been kept in great condition to this day. There is a lot of history held between this structure and the nearby banks of Bear Creek.
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This really cool rope bridge stretches across the water and connects the Tishomingo State Park trailhead to the Outcroppings Trail. The bridge is sturdy and safe, but it does offer a unique feeling for those who haven't been on this type of bridge before.
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The Outcroppings Trail at Tishomingo State Park travels along the creek and winds through the woods around some rocky "outcroppings." The trail is pretty easy to follow and offers access to the creek several times and has a really cool bridge at the start and finish.
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Section of the Thompson Creek Trail with great rock formations and waterfalls. This is a good sample of the many sandstone formations you will encounter on other hikes throughout the wilderness.
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The Sipsey Fork is a 71 mile long river that runs through the wilderness. It is a fork of the Black Warrior River in Alabama. The Sipsey Fork is formed by the junction of Thompson and Hubbard creeks within the wilderness.
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Scenic waterfall off of the cliffs near the Bees Creek Canyon Trail. There is also an iconic Giant Tulip Popular Tree here known as the "Big Tree.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of hiking trails can I find in Franklin County?
Franklin County offers a diverse range of hiking experiences, from easy, family-friendly walks to more challenging multi-hour excursions through wilderness areas. You'll find trails exploring river valleys, dense woodlands, and unique geological formations, particularly within the Sipsey Wilderness and Tishomingo State Park.
Are there any easy hiking trails suitable for families or beginners?
Yes, Franklin County has several easy trails perfect for families or those new to hiking. For instance, the Outcroppings Trail loop — Tishomingo State Park is a 2.2-mile path leading through rock formations and varied woodlands. Another option is the Saddleback Ridge loop — Tishomingo State Park, which is 2.6 miles long and offers gentle terrain.
Can I find trails with waterfalls in Franklin County?
Yes, the region is known for its scenic waterways and waterfalls. The Sipsey Wilderness, in particular, features numerous canyons and waterfalls. Consider the Bee Branch Falls and Bunyan Hill Trail loop — Sipsey Wilderness, a moderate 7.4-mile route that will lead you to beautiful cascades.
Are there any circular hiking routes available?
Many trails in Franklin County are designed as loops, offering varied scenery without retracing your steps. Examples include the Big Tree Short Cut and Needles Eye loop — Sipsey Wilderness, a moderate 7-mile trail, or the shorter Pioneer Pond loop — Tishomingo State Park, which is less than a mile.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Franklin County?
The komoot community highly rates the hiking in Franklin County, with an average score of 5.0 stars from 8 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the immersive wilderness experience, the unique geological features like rock outcroppings, and the peaceful atmosphere of the dense woodlands and river valleys.
Are there any longer, more challenging hikes for experienced trekkers?
Absolutely. For those seeking a more strenuous adventure, the Wilderness Loop Trail — Sipsey Wilderness is a challenging 21.2-mile route that explores the heart of the wilderness, offering extensive forest immersion and typically taking over 9 hours to complete.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks to look out for on the trails?
Franklin County's trails often lead to distinctive natural landmarks. In the Sipsey Wilderness, you can encounter the unique Needle's Eye rock formation, which is a highlight of the Sipsey Fork – Needle's Eye loop from Thompson Trailhead. Tishomingo State Park is known for its impressive rock outcroppings and creeks, visible on trails like the Outcroppings Trail loop.
Are there trails that offer a sense of solitude or wild hiking?
Yes, the extensive wilderness areas provide opportunities for a more secluded hiking experience. The Rippey - Randolph Wild Hiking Trails loop — Sispsey Wilderness is a moderate 8.8-mile path that takes you deep into the natural landscape, perfect for those seeking tranquility.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Franklin County?
While hiking is possible year-round, spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions with mild temperatures and beautiful scenery. Spring brings lush greenery and flowing waterfalls, while fall showcases vibrant foliage. Summers can be warm and humid, and winters are typically mild, making them suitable for hiking as well.
Are there any trails that are particularly good for spotting wildlife?
The diverse ecosystems of Franklin County, especially within the Sipsey Wilderness and Tishomingo State Park, provide habitats for various wildlife. While specific trails aren't designated for wildlife viewing, quiet hikes through areas like the CCC Trail (a 3.6-mile easy route) or any of the Sipsey Wilderness loops increase your chances of encountering local fauna.
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