Shoal Creek Nature Preserve: A hidden Florence gem

Located about 15 minutes north of Florence, you can find one of the many beautiful nature trails North Alabama has to offer. Shoal Creek Nature Preserve has plenty of scenic views, hiking trails and natural beauty. Keep reading to see why we recommend visiting this natural beauty located just outside of Florence.

Scenic views along the trails

With over 200 acres of land, there are plenty of scenic views along the trails of the Shoal Creek Nature Preserve. This nature preserve is a perfect glimpse into the natural beauty that North Alabama has to offer.

With views such as, uncultivated fields, thick forrest, gorgeous creeks and breathtaking waterfalls. If you are looking for a hike that has plenty of diverse views to offer, then Shoal Creek is the perfect place for you.

Trails offered at Shoal Creek

Shoal Creek Nature Preserve has plenty of land for you to explore, and offers multiple trails for you to hike or explore. Each trail has a different level of difficulty, miles and views offered. Two of our favorite trails to explore are Jones Branch and Lawsons Branch.

The Jones Branch trail is considered to be a the easier hike between the two. The trail is a 2.5 mile loop and takes anywhere between 45 minutes to an 1 hr 1/2 to complete, depending on how many views you stop to enjoy along the way. This trail is perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and even horseback riding. Some things you may see along the trail include, gorgeous views, creeks, flowers and thick forrest.

The Lawson Branch trail is the harder of the two trails, it is considered to be a moderate level of difficulty. This trail is a 2.9 mile loop trail and typically takes hikers anywhere between an 1hr 15 minutes to 1hr and 45 minutes depending on the person or form of travel. This trail also has great spots for birdwatching, hiking a horseback riding. Some things you may see along your hike include, streams, waterfalls and gorgeous forrest and fields.

Activities offered at Shoal Creek

Although taking in the beautiful views of Shoal Creek is an activity itself, there are plenty of other things you can do when visiting. Some of the activities you are able to do when visiting here include:

• Hiking
• Birdwatching
• Horseback riding
• Fishing
• Canoeing
• Picnicking
• Nature study and photography

How to get to Shoal Creek from Florence

Shoal Creek Nature Preserve is located just outside of Florence. The drive is fairly easy and there is a sign located at the entrance to help guide you to the trails. When coming from Florence on Cox Creek Parkway you will take highway 47 until you turn left onto county road 61, not too far after you turn the nature preserve will be located on your right.

On your way you will pass The Shoal Shack, we recommend stopping by here for a delicious bite to eat!

Have you ever visited the Shoal Creek Nature Preserve? If so let us know by tagging The Bama Buzz on Instagram, X, Facebook + LinkedIn.