Alabama Coasting stories... Nature takes flight in South Baldwin County

Foley

Get Out!

Parks, preserves and waterways offer outdoor recreation in Foley

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Board the train at Foley Railroad Museum.

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aldwin County’s natural beauty, diverse landscapes and multitude of waterways are known for attracting both visitors and residents. And the temperate coastal climate makes year-round outdoor recreation part of the lifestyle here. In the heart of South Baldwin County, Foley’s parks and preserves offer an amazing array of opportunities to get out and experience the natural wonders of the region so many have come to love.

The city’s Graham Creek Nature Preserve encompasses 484 acres of natural habitats and a multitude of ways to enjoy them. Whether biking or hiking through the pine savanna, birding amid tidal marshes or kayaking the miles of creeks and bays, outdoor types find their Zen here. Rare pitcher plants grow in bog areas and interpretive signage throughout the preserve helps visitors understand the diversity and beauty of the native flora

and fauna. The park also has archery and disc golf courses for sports enthusiasts.

There is also an outdoor classroom, a playground and picnic area as well as an Interpretive Center. The center includes live native reptile exhibits, habitat reproductions and rotating educational displays.

Nearby Wolf Creek Park offers yet another chance to explore the outdoors.

This park comprises 20 acres and is home to a canoe and kayak launch, boardwalk, fishing pier and picnic areas. The water views are stunning, and the easy access makes this a prime fishing spot or an excellent starting point for a paddling adventure.

The two parks are connected by the beautiful waters of Wolf and Graham creeks and the surrounding waters. These spots are also part of the new Coastal Alabama Back Bay Blueway. This network of public access locations offers four

distinct trails with 21 launch sites along the waterways surrounding Foley, Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and Fort Morgan.

Many of these nearby sites also offer public launch facilities for boaters and anglers. Family time on the water, an outing in search of the best fishing hole in the area or a dolphin watch or sunset cruise are all popular ways to enjoy the waters here. No matter the motivation, these waters are a favorite source of recreation, entertainment and relaxation to many, all year long.

Whether on land or water, enjoying the view or challenging the elements, there are so many ways to enjoy South Baldwin County’s beautiful natural resources. In Foley, the public parks and preserves, along with the excellent access and facilities, offer nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts a wealth of ways to get out and enjoy the best the region has to offer.

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U P U P & A W A Y

Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival

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oley is the spot for high-flying adventure and family fun the first weekend in May as the annual Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival takes flight August 27-30, 2020.

The event is hosted by the South Baldwin Chamber in partnership with the City of Foley and sponsored by Tanger Outlets.

It features over 40 balloons from across the country and kicks off on Thursday evening with a Balloon Glow at Tanger Outlets. During this event, attendees can enjoy performances by the World-Famous Disc Connected Canines, musical entertainment, children’s activities and more amid retail, arts & crafts and food booths. Musical headliners follow balloon flights, glows and tethered rides (weather permitting) on Friday and Saturday nights. There is no cost to watch the balloons fly!

For complete information on this great family event, go to www.gulfcoastballoonfestival.com

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