Sample Itineraries

Florence

Site 3: Joe Wheeler State Park

While visiting the kiosk at Joe Wheeler State Park, take some time to explore this beautiful facility. Joe Wheeler State Park lodge has 75 spacious rooms and suites, all overlooking Wheeler Lake as well as a great meeting facility. Joe Wheeler’s day use facilities include large pavilions, a sandy beach swimming area, tennis courts, basketball courts, horseshoe pits and ample shoreline for bank fishing. Other amenities include an 18-hoel golf course, hiking trails, a pool, campgrounds and year round activities.

For more information, call Joe Wheeler State Park at 256-247-5461 / 1-800-544-5636 or visit www.joewheelerstatepark.com  or call Florence/Lauderdale Tourism 256-740-4141 / 1-888-356-8687 or visit www.flo-tour.org.

Site 11: Waterloo

While in Waterloo, drop by the Edith Newman Culver Memorial Museum on Main Street. This historic home is now the site of a town museum that features Native American artifacts, Civil War relics and the unique heritage of Waterloo ­ one of Alabama’s oldest incorporated towns. (Edith Newman Culver Museum 256-767-6081)

The town was also a stop along the Trail of Tears. A memorial marker stands today in remembrance of the hardships that fell upon the Native Americans as they traveled from the eastern states to Oklahoma. During the Civil War, Waterloo was burned, had a visit by U.S. General William Sherman, and was the site of the largest cavalry force ever amassed in the Western Hemisphere.

The Natchez Trace Parkway is also easily accessed from Waterloo. This historic and scenic, two lane federal parkway meanders for 33 miles across northwest Alabama. The Trace is a beautiful place for biking and is filled with historic sites and great areas for bird watching.

The Shoal Creek Preserve is another wonderful place for outdoor activities. The property currently boasts about 4.5 miles of hiking trails and about 2 miles of horse trails, bird watching, waterfalls, towering trees, wildflowers and more. This 300 acre area, just north of Florence and about three miles north of St. Florian, reveals the natural beauty of the Shoals area. Whether you are looking for a challenging hike or a quiet get-a-way the Shoal Creek Preserve will accommodate you in every way.

For more information, call Florence/Lauderdale Tourism 256-740-4141 / 1-888-356-8687 or visit www.flo-tour.org.

Decatur/Morgan County

Sites 17, 18 & 19

Historic Decatur

A short drive from these birding sites is the Old Decatur and Albany Historic Districts. Decatur prides itself on having the largest concentration of Victorian era homes in the state of Alabama. The Old Decatur historic district dates from the early 1800"s to the turn of the century. The styles of the homes vary from the French influenced Empire period to the Craftsman Bungalow. While on Bank Street, stop by the Old State Bank, Alabama’s oldest standing bank building and the first site on Decatur’s Civil War Walking Tour. Founded by businessmen from Albany, New York the Albany historic district dates from the late 1800’s. The homes in this district reflect the early 20^th century styles such as Victorian, Colonial Revival, California Cottage, Craftsman Bungalows and Dutch Colonial. Both neighborhoods are listed on the National Historic Register.

Downtown Decatur shopping is a pleasure with a wide array of specialty shops, antiques, and galleries in buildings of varied architectural styles. Along with the shopping, a variety of restaurants offer choices of fine dining, delis, coffee shops and home style cooking.

Other local attractions not to be missed are Point Mallard Park, home of America’s first wave pool, Cook’s Natural Science Museum and the Carnegie Visual Arts Center.

For more information, call Decatur-Morgan County CVB 800-524-6181 or visit www.decaturcvb.org.

Sites 23, 24, 25 & 26

Mooresville

While visiting these sites, take the time to stroll through the lovely village of Mooresville, Alabama’s oldest city. The first settlers arrived around 1805, 14 years prior to Alabama becoming a state in 1819. Though only 160 acres in size, Mooresville is a feast for the senses with its historic buildings, colorful flowers and giant Magnolias. Every season is wonderful in Mooresville but Spring and Fall are especially beautiful.

For more information, call Decatur-Morgan County CVB 800-524-6181 or visit www.decaturcvb.org.

Sites 16, 31 & 33

Hartselle

Come home to a place that reminds you where you grew up…or perhaps a place where you wish you had, known as The City of Southern Hospitality, Hartselle has much to offer visitors. Antique galleries and specialty shops abound featuring rare and outstanding selections of furniture, accessories, glassware, brick-a-brac, primitives and clothing. Take home original art from several nationally known local artists, many known for their depictions of wildlife.

For more information, call Decatur-Morgan County CVB 800-524-6181 or visit www.decaturcvb.org.

Limestone County

Sites 20, 21, 22 & 23

Antebellum Trail

Alabama Veteran’s Museum & Archives

This museum honors veterans with displays of memorabilia from the Revolutionary War to the present. One can reminisce or learn from viewing the collectibles that reflect the tribulations or war and the courage of men and women who fought for their beliefs. The museum, located on West Pryor Street, is housed in the old L & N Railroad freight depot, which was built in 1928. For more information, call the Alabama Veteran’s Museum at 256-233-6459.

Athens State University

Alabama’s oldest institution of higher learning, the main building on campus, Founders Hall, was built in 1842. Local legend says the building was saved from burning by Union troops raiding Athens during the Civil War when the college Madam produced a letter said to have been written by President Abraham Lincoln. Founders Hall, listed in the National Register of Historic Places, also houses the majestic Altar of the New Testament woodcarving. The life-size carvings took 12 years to complete and depict Christ and New Testament figures and verses carved in tulip wood. For more information, call the Greater Limestone County Chamber of Commerce at 256-232-2600 or visit www.acola.org

Donnell House

Located on the campus of Athens Intermediate School, this living history museum was built in 1845 by a travel weary 61-year-old Cumberland Presbyterian minister, Robert Donnell. In the 1860’s the homestead served as a bivouac for union troops during the Civil War. For a short time it served as one of the two public high schools in the county. Listed in the National Register of Historic Places, the site is being converted into a living history museum. For more information, call the Greater Limestone County Chamber of Commerce at 256-232-2600 or visit www.acola.org

Orchards

Fresh produce available at two local orchards located on Hwy 72E, approximately 2 miles from I-65 exit 351. For more information, call the Greater Limestone County Chamber of Commerce at 256-232-2600 or visit www.acola.org

Unique Shopping

If you’re looking for something unique, something old or something new you’re sure to find it in Athens. The beautiful courthouse square has a variety of stores which offer an unique shopping experience. There are also several strip malls in Athens where one can find almost any desired items. The atmosphere of shopping in Athens is pleasant and enjoyable, and don’t forget about the Limestone Flea Market, located on Hwy. 72 East, open every weekend. For more information, call the Greater Limestone County Chamber of Commerce at 256-232-2600 or visit www.acola.org

Huntsville/Madison County

Site 27: Winfred Thomas Agricultural Research Station

Once you’ve had the opportunity to explore and enjoy this extensive grassland, home to the Scissor-tailed Flycatcher, be sure to visit other attractions in the vicinity. In the spring or summer, The Huntsville Stars, www.huntsvillestars.com the class AA affiliate of the Milwaukee Brewers, would provide you the chance to see some other fly catchers on the baseball diamond!

Among the attractions in the area, be sure to visit the State Black Archives Research Center and Museum located on the campus of Alabama A&M University in the historic James H. Wilson Building. http://www.aamu.edu/archivemuseumcenter/

The Archives/Museum Center is open to visitors Monday through Friday. Special Hours apply during other periods. Group tours and lectures are scheduled throughout the year for public school students, campus groups and the public at large. Individuals may visit any time during the regular operating hours. Appointments should be arranged for group tours.

Alabama A&M University - James H. Wilson Bldg., PO Box 595 Normal, AL 35762

Contact: Diane Okwukwu (256) 851-5846

Days/Hours of Operation:
Monday through Friday 8:00 AM-4:00 PM

Enjoy the historic downtown area and visit a recreation of the location where Alabama became a state.

Alabama Constitution Village

Alabama's birthplace - 1819. Explore Alabama's rich history & become a part of the 19th century as villagers dressed in period clothing take you through eight reconstructed Federal style buildings. Visit the actual site where forty-four delegates gathered to forge the way for Alabama's Statehood.

Directions: I-565 east to exit 19C. I-565 west to exit 19A toward downtown. Continue six blocks to Gates Avenue. Constitution Village will be on your left. 109 Gates Avenue Huntsville, AL 35801

Contact: Jeff Stott (256) 564-8100 (800) 678-1819 info@earlyworks.com

Days/Hours of Operation: Wednesday through Saturday 10:00 AM-4:00 PM

EarlyWorks Children’s Museum

Located adjacent to Alabama Constitution Village is EarlyWorks Children’s Museum

Take the mystery out of history at the South's largest hands-on history museum. Take a trip back in time in the stately Early Works Children's Museum Rotunda where exhibits bring to life Alabama's early history. Hear stories from the talking tree, play a tune on the giant-sized instruments at the bandstand & try building a house in the interactive architecture exhibit. Walk the gangplank and explore a 46-foot keelboat, try on clothing in the Federal house.

Days/Hours of Operation:
Tuesday through Saturday 9:00 AM-4:00 PM

Weeden House Museum

Built in 1819, the Weeden House Museum is noted for its entrance fanlight & collection of period furnishings. This house, once home to poet & artist Maria Howard Weeden is in the Twickenham Historic district just one block from Alabama Constitution Village and EarlyWorks Children’s Museum.

300 Gates Avenue Huntsville, AL 35801

Contact: Barbara Lauster (256) 536-7718 weedenmuseum@bellsouth.net

Days/Hours of Operation:
Monday through Friday 11:00 AM-4:00 PM

Just down the street a few blocks is the Historic Huntsville Depot. Circa 1860-One of the nation's oldest remaining railroad structures. Climb aboard locomotives, see Alabama's largest public model railroad, visit Civil War exhibits & discover graffiti written by soldiers. Listen as Andy Barker, the robotic ticket agent tells of Alabama's railway history. "Kid's Corner" is complete with costumes, train puzzles & maps.

Directions: I-565 east take 19C, I-565 west 19A toward downtown Huntsville. Depot will be on the left at the first traffic light (Monroe Street) 320 Church Street Huntsville, AL 35801

Days/Hours of Operation:
Wednesday through Saturday 10:00 AM-4:00 PM

Also in downtown Huntsville located in Big Spring International Park, you’ll find the

Huntsville Museum of Art.

North Alabama's leading visual arts center fills its seven galleries with a variety of traveling exhibitions & the work of nationally & regionally acclaimed artists. The nationally accredited museum also presents shows from its own 2,300 piece permanent collection.

Open Monday-Saturday 10 AM-5 PM & Sunday 1 PM-5 PM. THURSDAYS OPEN UNTIL 8 PM. Closed most major holidays.

300 Church Street Huntsville, AL 35801

Contact: (256) 535-4350 (800) 786-9095

On the square in downtown, you can visit the state’s oldest continuously operating hardware store Harrison Brothers Hardware.

Established in 1879 and on the Square since 1897, Harrison Brothers is operated by the Historic Huntsville Foundation and staffed by volunteers.

Directions: I-565 east to exit 19C, this will take you straight to the courthouse square. 124 South Side Square Huntsville, AL 35801

Contact: Raquel Tejan, Manager (256) 536-3631 hbh@hiwaay.net

Days/Hours of Operation:
Monday through Friday 9:00 AM-5:00 PM
Saturday 10:00 AM-4:00 PM

Site 28: Madison County Public Lake

One of the best fishing lakes in the county, Madison County Public Lake is also a wonderful location for waterfowl and all types of Northern Alabama birdlife. You may even be fortunate enough to see some Ospreys or a Tern. Once you’ve taken in the aquatic wonders, you’re just a few "turns" away from some great attractions and activities.

The North Alabama Railroad Museum

Reservations recommended for train rides, no admission, no parking fee, self guided tour.

April-October hours: Wednesday and Saturday, 9 AM-2 PM, and by appointment. Self guided Sun., Mon. Thurs. & Fri. Call and leave message for reservations.

Directions: I-565 east until it changes to 72, east 2 miles to Moores Mill Road, North on Moores Mill Road, cross second Railroad track, left on Chase Road for 1/2 mile. The museum is on the left. 694 Chase Road Huntsville, AL 35815

Contact: Hugh Dudley, Director (256) 851-6276

Site 29: Monte Sano State Park

After exploring the park and trails for Indigo Buntings, Red-eyed Vireos and other fascinating species, you can visit even more great sites and attractions in the area.

Monte Sano State Park affords stunning vistas from the top of the mountain just east of Downtown. Stroll mountaintop trails, have a family picnic and visit the Japanese garden and teahouse. The 14 renovated cabins and 89 campsites are great for weekend getaways. Phone 256-534-3757 for reservations. Fax 256-539-7069

Directions: Follow US 431 south past the hospitals. At the top of Monte Sano Mountain, turn left and then follow the signs. 5105 Nolen Avenue Huntsville, AL 35801

Contact: (256) 534-3757

Burritt on the Mountain — A Living Museum

This unique museum of regional history is housed in the mountaintop home of Dr. William Henry Burritt. The remarkable 14-room mansion built in the shape of an X in the 1930's is insulated with 2,200 bales of wheat straw. The Historic Park contains restored farm buildings which interpret rural life during 1850 and 1900. Many nature trails wind through heavily wooded forest. The grounds, open year round, offer a breathtaking panoramic view of Huntsville and the Tennessee Valley. On a clear day you can see the Tennessee River and the towering NASA rocket test stands. Grounds open year round.

Open year round (except where noted). Admission tickets purchased at Museum Store. Last ticket sold one-half hour before closing. Summer Hours (April - October) Tuesday - Saturday: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sunday: 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Winter Hours (November - March)Tuesday - Saturday: 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Sunday: 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Closed Mondays, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day

Directions: From Governors Drive, turn on Monte Sano Boulevard (at the top of the mountain) and look for the museum entrance on left. 3101 Burritt Drive Huntsville, AL 35801

Contact: (256) 536-2882 bm-recep@ci.huntsville.al.us

Days/Hours of Operation:
Tuesday through Saturday 9:00 AM-5:00 PM
Sunday 12:00 PM-5:00 PM

Just over the mountain, you can enjoy a whole different type of "birdie" on the three courses of the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail at Hampton Cove

Hampton Cove Golf Course is the Northern gateway to Alabama's Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, featuring 54-holes of World-Class golf. The course offers 36-holes of Championship golf & an 18-hole par three Short Course.

Reservations required.

Closed Christmas Day. Reservations required: Tee Times up to 7 days in advance to play.

Directions: From I-565 east approx. 17 miles to Governors Drive exit. Follow Governor's Drive approx. 14 miles to intersection of Governor's & Old Highway 431 South, left onto Old Highway 431 South approx. 1 mile. Located on the right side of the road 450 Old Highway 431 South Owens Cross Roads, AL 35763

Contact: Steve Mack (256) 551-1818 hamptoncove@rtjgolf.com

Days/Hours of Operation: Open Daily

Site 30: Hays Nature Preserve

The Hays Nature Preserve is an incredible area easily accessible for birders. Several miles of paved trails follow the Flint River. Look for Great Blue and Green herons, the Belted Kingfisher and Eastern Bluebirds among dozens of other species.

Looking for great attractions or activities? Look no further! Visit our website at www.huntsville.org for these and many other attractions and invaluable information on the area.

Huntsville Botanical Garden

Huntsville Botanical Garden - There's always something growing on! The Huntsville Botanical Garden is a beautiful 110-acre site with stunning floral collections, inviting woodland paths and broad grassy meadows. The 5-acre Central Corridor Garden, features aquatic, perennial, and annual displays ablaze with color from early spring through fall. Roses, daylilies, herbs, and ferns delight the visitor while the demonstration vegetable garden and composting bins educate. Kids of all ages love the G-scale trains that travel the Garden Railway. The Butterfly House, with over 50 species of native butterflies, is open May through September each year. Over 200,000 visitors annually enjoy special events such as the Spring Festival of Flowers, Scarecrow Trail, Galaxy of Lights and summer concerts. Enjoy lunch in the Tea Room.

Open 7 days a week. Mon.-Sat. 9 AM-8 PM & Sun. 1-8 PM. Closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Day & New Year's Day

Directions: 4747 Bob Wallace Avenue between the Space & Rocket Center and Jordan Lane. Take I-565 exit 15 and go east or take exit 17 and go west on Bob Wallace Avenue. 4747 Bob Wallace Avenue Huntsville, AL 35805

Contact: (256) 830-4447 (877) 930-4447

Sci-Quest Hands-on Science Center

More than 150 exciting interactive exhibits await the young and young at heart at Sci-Quest, North Alabama's premiere hands-on science center. Awaken the senses and energize the imagination while learning basic principles of science. All under one roof, you can get carried away in the Tornado Simulator, examine the mysteries of the human body with Grossology, get into the swing of things with the giant Magnetic Pendulum, and much more. In addition to permanent and traveling exhibits, Sci-Quest offers education programs for children, age four through sixth grade. Groups visiting Sci-Quest can have a more in-depth educational experience by participating in a Science Encounter demonstration. And no one will want to miss a 3D presentation in the state-of-the-art Immersive Reality Theater.

Reservations: Recommended for groups of 10 or more children; Students ages 3-18, Children under 2 are free. Will be closed for Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Martin Luther King Day

Directions: From I-565, take Exit 15 and follow the signs to Old Madison Pike. Turn right on to Wynn Drive. Sci-Quest is located in the Calhoun Community College-Huntsville Campus building. Free parking behind the building. 102D Wynn Drive Huntsville, AL 35805

Contact: Heather Green (256) 837-0606 info@sci-quest.org

Days/Hours of Operation:
Tuesday through Friday 9:00 AM-5:00 PM
Saturday 10:00 AM-6:00 PM
Sunday 1:00 PM-5:00 PM

The US Space & Rocket Center

The world's largest space attraction features dozens of interactive exhibits surrounding Apollo, Mercury and Space Shuttle spacecraft. Rockets developed in Huntsville range from the Army boosters that put America's first satellite and astronauts in orbit to NASA's Saturn V moon rocket and the Space Shuttle. The U. S. Space & Rocket Center is the only place in the world where you can stand under a "full stack" - the Space Shuttle, external tank and two rocket boosters. See the U.S. Space Camp Training Center where youngsters of all ages (and adults) conduct simulated missions. Experience three times the force of gravity as you spin in the "G-Force Accelerator." Feel the powerful G forces of launch aboard the "Space Shot." Maneuver through space aboard the "Journey to Jupiter." Travel with astronauts aboard the shuttle during breathtaking shows in the Spacedome Omnimax theater. Plan to spend an entire day at Alabama's number one attraction.

Closed Thankgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year's Eve & New Year's Day

Directions: I-565, exit 15. One Tranquility Base , PO Box 070015 Huntsville, AL 35805

Contact: (256) 837-3400 (800) 637-7223 info@spacecamp.com

Days/Hours of Operation:
Monday through Sunday 9:00 AM-5:00 PM

Veterans Memorial Museum

The Museum is dedicated to promoting and disseminating the accomplishments of American military men and women. Our emphasis is on participants of World War I and subsequent conflicts, whose survivors and families can use the Museum facilities to reminisce on their own experiences and those of parents, grandparents, and other close relatives. The Museum displays more than 30 historical military vehicles from World War I to the present, as well as tableaus, artifacts, and other memorabilia.

Other hours, for veteran or student groups, are available by appointment. Donation is $5 per adult, $4 for seniors, and $3 for students under 18.

2060-A Airport Road Huntsville, AL 35801

Contact: (256) 883-3737 info@memorialmuseum.org

Days/Hours of Operation:
Wednesday through Saturday 10:00 AM-5:00 PM

Clay House Museum

This Antebellum home built in 1853, provides a walk through time from 1850-1950, with decorative styles from each of the periods featuring Noritake Porcelain.

For the winter (October-March) we close at 4:00 PM.

16 Main Street Madison, AL 35758

Contact: Robin Brewer (256) 325-1018 (800) 772-2348 brewerr@HiWAAY.net

Days/Hours of Operation:
Monday 10:00 AM-5:00 PM
Thursday through Saturday 10:00 AM-5:00 PM
Sunday 1:00 PM-5:00 PM

Ditto Landing & Marina

Wheeler reservoir has more than 60,000 acres of adventurous playground. There are ample facilities for boats of all sizes. For overnight, over the weekend, or week-long vacation... Ditto Landing is a camper’s paradise. Nestled in the shaded comfort of densely wooded lots, the campground is cool, peaceful, and just a moments walk from an abundance of fun-filled activities. Take advantage of our camping facilities. Credit Cards: Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express & Conoco

Directions: From Nashville, the preferred route is I-65 south to U.S. 72 to U.S. 231 South through Huntsville to Hobbs Island Road, turn left, east for 8/10 of a mile to marina entrance. From Memphis, take U.S. 72 East to U.S. 231 South in Huntsville, then as above. From Guntersville, Ala. the preferred route is U.S. 431 North, across Tennessee River, turn left on Hobbs Island Road. 293 Ditto Landing Rd. , PO Box 14250 Huntsville, AL 35815 Contact: (256) 882-1057 (800) 552-8769 ditto@Hiwaay.net

Days/Hours of Operation:
Monday through Friday 8:00 AM-10:00 PM
Saturday through Sunday 6:00 AM-10:00 PM

Cullman

Site 32: Hurricane Creek Park

After visiting Hurricane Creek Park, take a short drive to the Echota Cherokee Interpretive Trails. Features approximately 1.5 miles of naturalized trails with a wide variety of native plants and trees — beautiful scenery and lookouts for bird watchers.  Also features a Cherokee Dog-Trot Log Home which was built in the 1860s and demonstrates the architecture and the life of early Americanized Cherokees — a true Cherokee Garden sites adjacent to the cabin. The Outdoor Classroom is located on the Middle trail and will seat approximately 30 children for studies on environmental responsibility, ecology, biology, history, and cultural information.

A stroll through the Ave Maria Grotto and Gardens will be a treat as well. See the over 125 miniatures that Brother Joseph Zoetle carved from pieces of broken tiles and glass. The Grotto is a nature lovers heaven with a chipmunk trail, birds and nature wildlife roaming through the old rock query.

Visit beautiful Lewis Smith Lake, take a boat ride through the more than 21,000 acres. The deep, clear lake has dozens of feeder streams, winding bays and sloughs. Steep bluffs cradle much of the lake, with water depths dropping as deep as 60 to 70 feet just a few yards offshore. The water often appears emerald green, and a bass that strikes a lure 10 feet down can be seen as it hits.

Travel to Sportman Lake Park, full of entertainment for the entire family. With picnic pavillions, a small-scale train that travels along the shore of the lake, fishing, a mini-Ferris wheel and carousel, a miniature golf course, playground and padel boats, you’re sure to find something for everyone to enjoy. Relax and watch the birds under the trees or feed the ducks and fish from the lake’s dock.

For more information on visiting the Cullman area, contact the Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Bureau at www.visitcullman.org or toll-free (800) 313-5114 to received free visitor information.

Gunterville

Sites 34: Gunterville State Park, Town Creek and Drive and Site 35: Guntersville Peninsula

After visiting these sites explore the beautiful Lake Guntersville State Park, where hiking, camping, fishing are spectacular. Lake Guntersville State Park has cabins, chalets and a lodge (which is being renovated and should be reopening in 2006).  Also enjoy the small town atomsphere of downtown Guntersville and browse in the unique shops along Gunter Avenue.  

(Lake Guntersville State Park 256-571-5440)

A visit to the Guntersville Museum and Cultral Center is must. The museum has an extensive permanent collection of art and artifacts, as well as special monthly exhibits in the Main Gallery. The TVA Room docments the 10 year construction of the Guntersville Dam. Photographs illustrate the construction process, as well as depict life in the valley before and after the dam was completed. The Indian Room provides insight into the Cherokee and Creek Indians that inhabited the Guntersville river basin for over 10,000 years. (Guntersville Museum & Cultral Center 256-571-7597)

Site 36: Guntersville Dam South

Take time to explore the southern part of Marshall County after visiting this site.  Take U.S. Highway 69 W to Arab, Alabama where rumor has it that Bonnie & Clyde made an attempt to rob the local bank. Find out more about their stay in Arab at the Arab Historical Complex located in the city park. Enjoy stolling back in time through the years of 1800-1940's as you walk through Smith's Country Store, Hunt School and The Elvin Light Museum. Don't forget to ask how Arab got it's name, it's quite an interesting story!

Site 37: Guntersville Dam North

After your visit to the north side of Guntersville Dam venture back out on to U. S. Highway 431 South and head to the small mountain Town of Grant to visit  Marshall County's oldest antique, Cathedral Caverns State Park. The cave is 60 degrees year round. The tour takes approximately 11/2 hours and the trail is approximately a mile and half concrete walkway.  So grab your jacket and get ready to view one the world's true natural wonders.

Jackson County

Site 38: Goose Pond Colony

Along with all the Canada Geese and other water fowl the birder encounters, Goose Pond offers much more for the outdoor enthusiast. Two championship 18-hole golf courses are offered to the golfer, a first class marina and boat launch awaits the boater and fisherman, and one can top it off at The Docks restaurant right on the lake. Goose Pond also offers an R.V. park, hiking trails, cabins and a lodge for your enjoyment. (Contact Goose Pond at 1-800-268-2884)

Goose Pond is nearby to the world famous Unclaimed Baggage Center. Shopping will never be the same once you discover a world of lost treasures at Unclaimed Baggage Center. If searching for bargains is your passion and the thrill of discovering a one-of-a-kind treasure makes your heart race, come on a shopping adventure like no other on earth! Every week at Unclaimed Baggage truckloads of lost and unclaimed airline passenger property are brought in, and offer their customers incredible lost treasures, all at a fraction of the original cost. For Info: Call 256-259-1525 or check www.unclaimedbaggage.com.

Site 40: Roy B. Whitaker Paint Rock River Preserve & Site 41: Skyline Wildlife Management Area

Not only are these sites home to some of the rarest birds and butterflies in the region, Paint Rock River is also home to the newest outdoor attraction in Alabama, The Walls of Jericho. Over 3.5 miles of well marked hiking trails and ten miles of horse trails lead into the 12,510 acres of natural area that are officially open to outdoor enthusiasts, wildlife observers, and geo-tourists everywhere. What the visitor receives is extraordinary and pristine beauty in the rock formations as well as the much-anticipated flora and fauna. Some, if not most, are now calling the Walls "The Grand Canyon of the South". For Info: Jackson County Tourism 256-259-5500.

To get to the Walls, coming east from Huntsville take U.S. Highway 72 and turn left onto State Highway 79, which will take you, first through Skyline and then a few miles later through Hytop. After passing through Hytop, look on the left for two gravel parking areas, the first for horses and the next for hikers, each with a yellow gate and an information kiosk.

Site 43: Stevenson Town Park

Stevenson, Alabama is steeped in history and heritage and offers many other opportunities for the birder to enjoy our area. Don’t miss the Stevenson Railroad Depot Museum and Fort Harker. — A Union stronghold and fort during the Civil war, today the Stevenson Depot is listed on the national Register of Historic Places and houses artifacts of the lively trade, weary travelers, and bitter conflict brought to the area by the strategic location of the railroad. Fort Harker is a rare find since it is one of only a few true redoubt forts left in America. It also has a specific stand especially built for the birding or wildlife observer. For Info: Jackson County Tourism 256-259-5500.

Site 44: Russell Cave National Monument

The only national monument in Alabama sits at the end of a 12-mile hiking trail surrounded by 310 acres of pristine woodlands. Guests are invited to take a guided tour or permits are available to visit deeper parts of the cave. Admission is free. For Info: Call 256-495-2672 or printable travel guide at www.nps.gov/ruca.

Nearby Bridgeport, Alabama is only a few miles from Russell Cave and has much railroad heritage. Visit their historic depot, museum, and Battery Hill in downtown Bridgeport while you’re there.

Site 45: Gorham’s Bluff/Coon Gulf

Not far from Gorham’s Bluff is Pisgah Gorge located in Pisgah, Alabama — The Gorge’s three beautiful waterfalls are set against a background of scenic hiking trails, natural beauty, and abundant wildlife. The Gorge is particularly striking in the spring and fall, when wildflowers, changing leaves and our famous Rhododendrons make the fabulous landscape even more dramatic.

Gorham’s Bluff is home to one of the top 15 Bed & Breakfast Lodges in the nation. Plan your bird watching trip around one of many spectacular cultural events that are held there on the mountain (See annual events below). For Info: Call 256-451-ARTS (2787) or see www.gorhamsbluff.com.