Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail Tops Nationwide List Again

For the third consecutive year, the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail has been recognized as the leading recreation trail at the 2025 USA Today 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards. This 29-mile trail is particularly notable for linking Gulf State Park with Baldwin County’s gorgeous Gulf Coast and Orange Beach.

Matthew Caps, director of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR), shared his excitement: “This victory feels extra special as we celebrate the year of the Alabama Trail.” It seems like a pretty big deal for the state.

Caps added, “We’re thrilled that USA Today readers have once again selected the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail, providing access to some of the most unique habitats and recreational opportunities along Gulf State Parks and Alabama’s coastline.” It’s incredible, really.

The trail beat out nine other competitors across the country, which included the impressive 78-mile Little Miami Scenic Trail in Ohio and the expansive 150-mile Great Allegheny Passage linking Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with Cumberland, Maryland.

Established in 2003, this unpaved pathway and boardwalk system offers users access to diverse ecosystems and outdoor activities. The trail is named after Hugh Branyon, who has been essential in managing Gulf State Park for over three decades. There’s even talk about expanding the backcountry trail system.

Alongside cycling and hiking, the trail is great for wildlife monitoring, playgrounds, fishing, and camping. So, there’s a bit of something for everyone, I think.

ADCNR Commissioner Chris Blankenship remarked, “This recognition from USA Today highlights the increasing importance of outdoor recreation across the country. The trail not only enriches our communities but also plays a vital role in connecting residents with the natural environment, offering essential recreational opportunities for overall well-being.” It’s true; nature has a way of bringing us together.

Across Alabama, the ADCNR’s state parks and wilderness areas boast hundreds of miles of multi-purpose trails. Some standout areas include the mountain biking and hiking trails at Chewacla State Park in Auburn, as well as the 18-mile hiking trail in the Forever Wild Perdido River Wildlife Management Area in Baldwin County.

The ADCNR also provides a range of horse riding and kayaking options, including equestrian trails at Wind Creek State Park near Lake Martin and the picturesque stretches of the Perdido River and the Baltram Canoe Trail in the Mobile-Tensaw Delta. It’s good to see such variety.

Beyond the ADCNR trail system, there are also numerous popular hiking, cycling, and paddling spots in the state, like the 630-mile Alabama Scenic River Trail and the 33-mile Chiaha Trail, plus the Alabama section of the Pinhoti National Recreation Trail.

Commissioner Blankenship expressed enthusiasm for ongoing trail projects throughout Alabama, stating, “Recreational trails are one of the best ways to explore the diverse landscapes our beautiful state offers. There truly are trails for everyone, from novices to the more seasoned trail enthusiasts.” It’s promising to see such commitment to outdoor adventures.

For more details, check out the results for the 2025 USA Today 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards for Best Recreational Trail.