Hikes in Tuskegee National Forest (AL)

Tuskegee National Forest Overview

Tuskegee National Forest is the smallest national forest in the U.S. at just over 11,000 acres. Located just miles down the road from Auburn, AL, there are plenty of recreational opportunities for all visitors.

Before being declared a national forest, this part of Alabama was heavily abused by farming and logging practices, with over 80% of the land cut-over. Since then, the farm land has been recovered and allowed to grow, putting the area to much better use. Tuskegee National Forest pays homage to the Tuskegee Airmen, a group of African-American pilots that fought valiantly in WWII.

There are 4 main hiking trails in the forest, 3 of which allow mountain biking. The forest also has Uchee Shooting Range, horseback riding, and a number of designated and primitive campgrounds. The Bartram National Recreation Trail is named after explorer William Bartram who led journeys through present day Tuskegee National Forest. Spring is a great time to hike this trail with the magnolias and wildflowers in full bloom. The best hikes in Tuskegee National Forest are described below.

State	Alabama
Nearest Metro Area	Montgomery, AL
Area Size	11,252 acres
Established	November 27, 1959
Hiking Trails	13 miles

Trailhead Traveler’s Recommended Best Hikes in Tuskegee National Forest

Bartram National Recreation Trail: 8.5 miles one way

20150701- FS- Tuskegee-002 — Bartram’s Trail on the Tuskegee National Forest , Photo by US Forest Service – Southern Region

The scenic Bartram Trail is the first trail in Alabama to be designated a National Recreation Trail. The trail runs thru the Tuskegee National Forest for about eight and one half miles. The Bartram Trail passes through various types fo forest wildlife habitat. Trail hikers can see a wide variety of wild flowers and flowering trees, including dogwood and magnolias. Bartram Trail hikers may also get a fleeting glimpse of deer, turkey, or other wildlife as they scurry through the forest.

Pleasant Hill Trail – 4 miles one-way

Pleasant Hill Trail is Alabama’s newest and only trail for biking and hiking in the Tuskegee National Forest. Only four miles in length, this trail is of moderate-level difficulty and provides incredible recreational fun for all.