Hitting the Trails

BY: KIM CRIPPS

Hoover has a way of changing you. As one of the best places to live in Alabama, it has a lot to offer in the way of faith, education, community, entertainment, health and fitness. Perhaps one of the most surprising things about the city is its ability to pull you into its outdoor scene.

Case in point, I’m a self-proclaimed indoor person, outdoorsy if you count sitting on patios and sunning on the beach. But, there’s something about the beauty of Hoover’s local parks and trails that practically beg you

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8 to explore. Our first – ever Hoover park adventure was Aldridge Gardens. With stroller and snacks in tow, we purchased fish food from the guard stand, fed the lake wildlife and watched fluffy baby ducklings waddle to catch up with their mama. We were hooked. Like time with an old friend, time in the outdoors was good for our souls. And, thankfully, these Hoover parks make it easy and inviting to get out there again and again.

Aldridge Gardens

Take in the beauty of Alabama’s native azaleas, camellias and hydrangeas while walking the ½ mile trail that surrounds a beautiful 5-acre lake. Be awed by the Veterans’ Memorial Arbor, explore the Alabama Urban Forest, then take a rest to feed the turtles, ducks and fish. Located at 3530 Lorna Road. Open daily from 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Black Creek Mountain Bike Park

Novice and intermediate-level mountain bikers will enjoy 5 miles of woodland trails tucked alongside Stadium Trace Parkway. This 73-acre park features three large loops with plenty of hills to put your bike – and your skills – to the test. Located at 5571 Stadium Trace Parkway. Open daily during daylight hours.

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Moss Rock Preserve

Boasting 349 acres of waterfalls, streams, trails, boulders and stunning views, Moss Rock is perfect for an outdoor adventure. Visitors can hike 12 miles of trails or climb the rock formations in Boulder Field. At the end of the day, walk across the street for dinner and a cold drink at two of Hoover’s popular local restaurants. Located at 617 Preserve Way. Open daily from sunrise to sunset.

Inverness Nature Park And Trails

The highlight of this nature park is its touted 18-hole disc golf course, fit for players of all skill levels. But, if it’s leisure you’re after, you’ll enjoy 77 acres of scenery ornamented with quiet hiking trails, rolling hills, picnic areas, local wildlife and peaceful streams. Located off Inverness Center Parkway. Open daily from 6:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Historical Park At Ross Bridge

With just under 2 miles of gently sloping terrain, this trail is a comfortable option for walking, running, biking and strollers. The first .5 mile is paved, making access via wheels even easier. Little ones will enjoy playing on the miniature wooden train set, exploring the historical railroad tracks and taking in the Civil War-era bridge. Open daily from 7:00 a.m. –8:00 p.m.