Governor Bob Riley and the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources’ (ADCNR) State Parks Division are recognizing June 6, 2009, as National Trails Day in Alabama as part of the national event. Recreational activities primarily involving trail-use will be highlighted throughout the nation. The event is designed to highlight the value of recreational trails to the quality of life of Alabamians and to call attention to the multi-faceted trail systems found within the state. Trail user groups throughout Alabama will take advantage of the trails on public lands.

 

Recently, U.S. Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar, added the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail in Gulf State Park to the National Trails System. The Branyon Backcountry Trail is a 7.5 mile handicap accessible multi-use asphalt and boardwalk trail that winds through coastal forests. Twenty-two trails in 13 states were recognized under the National Recreation Trails System. The Alabama State Parks Division offers over 200 miles of multi-use trails including hiking, mountain bike, on-road bike and horse trails.  

 

To learn more about the Alabama State Parks’ trail system visit the State Parks section of ADCNR Web site, www.outdooralabama.com, or www.alapark.com.

The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources promotes wise stewardship, management and enjoyment of Alabama’s natural resources through five divisions: Marine Police, Marine Resources, State Lands, State Parks, and Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries. To learn more about ADCNR, visit www.outdooralabama.com

Photo: Left to Right: ADCNR Commissioner Barnett Lawley, Hugh S. Branyon and State Parks Division Chief Mark Easterwood.