Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail

ALLIGATOR MARSH - Take a hike on this primitive trail to truly experience the park's wetlands.

ARMADILLO TRAIL - Veer off the beaten path and take the scenic route along this primitive trail near Middle Lake.

BEACH MOUSE BYPASS - Beach Mouse Bypass, an elevated boardwalk with stunning views, connects the Beach Pavilion and Interpretive Center with the green side of the park via pedestrian bridge.

BEAR CREEK TRAIL - This trail, repaved using recycled asphalt, connects the Campground with the park's northern amenities via
Gopher Tortoise Trail.

BOBCAT BRANCH - This primitive trail along the Campground's western edge provides scenic views of wetlands and
wooded areas.

CAMPGROUND TRAIL - This paved and elevated trail follows the northern border of the park's campground and is the perfect place to spot the park's most exotic creature—the Snowbird.

CANAL TRAIL - Canal Trail's accessible pier overlooking Lake Shelby is the perfect place to
cast your line or watch the sunset.

CATMAN TRAIL - This trail is home to amenities like the screened Forest Pavilion, Butterfly Garden, and Boulder Park.

COTTON BAYOU - This paved trail brings you closer to other trails and activities such as the Boulder Park, Butterfly Garden,
and Rosemary Dunes.

COYOTE CROSSING - With its connection to Gulf Shores, avid trail enthusiasts can explore the neighboring town by bike or foot.

CROSS PARK TRAIL - Experience diverse habitats as you move from historical dunes to a forested ridge. Enjoy the wind as it blows across the wetlands at the wooden boxes.

EAGLE LOOP - A walk along this primitive trail reveals old forests and, season permitting, nesting bald eagles.

EAST CABIN CONNECTOR - This trail connects cottage guests to the park's northern amenities via Coyote Crossing.

GOPHER TORTOISE TRAIL - The keystone of our trail system, Gopher Tortoise Trail creates a safe, car-free connection between the beach and the park's northern amenities.

GULF OAK RIDGE - Ancient mossy oaks and beautiful vistas alongside a diverse amount of native wildlife make this trail the
perfect place to walk and relax.

LAKE CROSSING - This elevated boardwalk connects the Campground to the Picnic Area and all the fun and adventure of Lake Shelby.

LAKE SHELBY OVERLOOK TRAIL - Take a detour off Gopher Tortoise Trail down this path to the accessible pier where you can spot alligators.

LAKEVIEW OVERLOOK - This accessible pier located on the northern edge of Lake Shelby is a great place for a quiet moment of
fishing or nature watching.

LAKEVIEW TRAIL - Follow the trail along Lake Shelby's western shore for stunning views of
wetlands. Stop and mingle with local anglers at a favorite fishing spot found on the trail.

MIDDLE LAKE OVERLOOK - This scenic overlook is accessed via Armadillo Trail and offers views of Middle Lake in the Campground.

RATTLESNAKE RIDGE - Gopher tortoises, armadillos, and woodpeckers—don't let the rattlesnake name fool you. There's
plenty of other wildlife to be seen along this trail.

ROSEMARY DUNES - This trail offers a scenic experience full of pine trees, native rosemary, wild flowers, and an opportunity to spot alligators.

SAWGRASS TRAIL - Beautiful live oaks provide this trail with plenty of shade.

TWIN BRIDGES - The journey along this trail carries you into the heart of the park's wooded areas where countless species of native plants and wildlife can be spotted.

WEST CABIN CONNECTOR - This trail connects cabin guests to the park's trail network via Lakeview Trail.

WOODSIDE CONNECTOR - This trail provides a connection to the park's wooded areas via Lakeview Trail and Coyote Crossing

Non-motorized vehicle use only.
Absolutely NO fires or smoking.
Pets must remain on a leash at all times.
CAUTION- alligators, snakes, and other wildlife in area. Remember to give all wildlife right-of-way.
Keep to the right. Pass on the left after announcing.
10 mph Speed Limit- NO "road training" allowed on the trail
No littering.
DAYLIGHT HOURS ONLY
Please dispose of litter or dog refuse in provided bins.
NO fishing from trail bridges. Fishing is allowed in designated areas only.
YIELD TO EMERGENCY AND OFFICIAL VEHICLES. REMEMBER- Vehicles may approach from behind you.

Overnight Accommodation Discount:

Alabama State Parks offers a 15% discount on overnight accommodations managed and operated by the State Park System for the following:

Senior citizens age 62 and older
Veterans and Active Military Personnel
Guests who are 100% Disabled (as documented through a physician)
State of Alabama employees on business


Proof of age or disability is required at check-in. This discount is only available Sunday through Thursday nights at 15% off the reservation system's day-rate for the amenity selected. This discount is not available in conjunction with other group rates, special packages, weekly or monthly rates, or discounts. This discount is not valid on holidays or weekends (Fridays and Saturdays). This discount must be mentioned upon check-in and will be applied upon verification.

For more information about camping rates please visit the Gulf State Park website.