7 hiking and walking trails in Auburn

Want to escape the winter funk with a walking trail now that the weather is warming up? Here are seven gorgeous outdoor parks and spaces in Auburn to unwind. Take a stroll, pack a picnic, read a book or visit with friends in one the many scenic nature spots hidden around Auburn.

1. Town Creek Park

Take a stroll through Town Creek Park (Elizabeth Hobbs / The Bama Buzz)

Town Creek is a tranquil park with 0.87 miles of walking trail, swing benches, a pond, exercise court and a 60,000+ square foot inclusive playground. This is the perfect spot to bring your family for a pleasant outdoor break, set up a hammock, read a book, go for a stroll or just take in the scene.

• Address: 1150 S Gay St, Auburn AL 36832
• Hours: 7AM-8PM
• Price: FREE
• Website

2. Chewacla State Park

Here’s a glimpse of the views of Chewacla Park (Chewacla Park / website)

Most Auburn locals are familiar with this beloved Alabama state park. This is the spot for those looking for a nature day trip camping, boat rentals, geocaching, fishing, hiking and mountain biking trails.

• Address: 124 Shell Toomer Pkwy, Auburn, AL 36830
• Hours: Monday-Sunday 8-5PM
• Price: Individuals 12-61: $4/person | Children 4-11: $2/person | Seniors 62+: $2/person | Kids 4 and under: FREE | Anyone who served or is serving: FREE with ID
• Website

3. Davis Arboretum

I cant get enough of the views at the Arboretum—it makes me feel like I’m in a painting. (Elizabeth Hobbs / The Bama Buzz)

If you’re an Auburn local, you’ve likely driven past the Donald E. Davis Arboretum countless times. This 13.5 acre botanic garden is supported by the Auburn University College of Sciences and Mathematics and serves as a learning garden and museum of Alabama’s native plants.

The Arboretum is gorgeous at any time of the year with three water features, miles of walking trails and cool structures throughout. Many of the plants throughout the arboretum are labeled so you can learn about Alabama’s nature while enjoying the trail.

• Address: 181 Garden Dr, Auburn, AL 36849
• Hours: Monday-Sunday sunrise-sunset
• Price: FREE
• Website

4. The Jule Collins Smith Museum of Art

These are just a few of the fun sights you’ll see when you stroll the trail at the Jule. (Elizabeth Hobbs / The Bama Buzz) (The Jule Collins Smith Museum of Art / website)

Did you know Auburn University’s art museum also has a gorgeous walking trail? Enjoy a view of the pond, sculptures and art pieces along the winding trail outside the Jule museum for an artsy, refreshing nature stroll.

My personal favorite art installation to keep my eye out for is “Bunnies in the Lake,” a self-portrat piece by Alex Podesta. The piece is currently uninstalled for renovation, but I’ll be back to walk the trail as soon as I spot the bunny ears in the lake again.

• Address: 901 S College St, Auburn, AL 36849
• Hours: Tuesday-Sunday 10AM-4:30PM, extended hours on Thursdays until 8PM
• Price: FREE
• Website | Instagram | Facebook

5. Lake Wilmore Trail

Check out the Lake Wilmore Trail located next to Ogletree Elementary School. (Visit Auburn-Opelika / webiste)

Lake Wilmore is another classic two-mile wooded walking trail in Auburn perfect for walking or biking.

• Address: 737 Ogletree Rd, Auburn, AL 36830
• Price: FREE
• Website

6. Louise Kreher Preserve and Nature Trail

Hike over six miles of wooded trails, check out the old barn, a waterfall and butterfly garden, and sign up for educational programs at the Kreher Preserve. ( Louise Kreher Preserve and Nature Center / website)

Immerse yourself in nature with a hike or one of the many engaging lessons and events at the Louise Kreher Preserve and Nature Center. The Nature Center, endowed by Auburn University College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment, serves as a first-class outdoor classroom and discovery center for the community to learn more about their natural environment.

Some of the programming offered by the center includes discovery hikes, nature walks, youth camps, adult workshops and classes, campfire cooking classes, educational exhibits, wildlife study programs and more.

• Address: 2222 N College St, Auburn, AL 36830
• Hours: Monday-Sunday sunrise-sunset
• Price: FREE
• Website | Event Calendar | Instagram | Facebook

7. Kiesel Park

Kiesel Park is the perfect spot to host event, have a picnic or bring your dogs out to play. (City of Auburn / website)

Kiesel Park is Auburn’s largest park at 157 acres including an elegant pavilion, pond, garden and 2.25 miles of walking trail. The park is also dog friendly, including a fenced-in area for safe off-leash play.

• Address: 520 Chadwick Ln, Auburn, AL 36832
• Hours: 6AM-6PM
• Price: FREE
• Website

Where are your favorite outdoor spaces in Auburn? Follow us and let us know by tagging us on socials at @thebamababuzz!