Black Creek Park's Rails to Trails — Attraction in Fultondale

The trailhead of the rail-to-trails greenway is formed by a ballpark, dog park, and an interesting looking playground. The parks and trailhead are right at the inviting looking creek with small shoals running over shale. An old railbed is a perfect location for a trail but since those rails were engineered to avoid curves and slopes, they make for boring hiking trails. Bring your bike and be happy or put on your running shoes for a fast run on a flat, well maintained surface, but bring a podcast when you are hiking or walking. Starting at the ballpark you quickly reach the intersection of Leora Ave and Stouts Rd where the dog park is. Walking for about 1 mile on the wide and immaculate trail, but way above the creek, you see the first "Creek Trail" sign. The narrow footpath, something I call a trail, leads you down to the creek where you Tee into a service (dirt) road that is used by ATV enthusiasts (I saw 4 ATVs today). Even though a road, I like this trail better since it is next to the creek, offers several ford crossings that can be a bit daunting after a rain, but don't worry, you don't have to walk through the creek and find your own trail alongside the creek to the next ford. Bring your kids, explore and play. All in all an...

These trails are perfect for walking, running, and biking (or any non-motorized mode of transport.) The 3.4 mile trail follows an old railway path, though the tracks have been removed. There are several offshoots leading to more challenging trails through the woods that run along the creek. There are also benches, a small shelter, and trail mile markers along the way.

The main trail is flat and varies between gravel and packed dirt, (though you do have to cross an active road to access the trail from Black Creek Park) and is accessible for all levels of fitness or ability. The trails are well-maintained but heavily wooded, so it's smart to be aware of your surroundings. Keep your eyes open for local wildlife and watch your step regarding fallen branches or errant stones.

The trails aren't illuminated, so paying attention to the amount of daylight remaining is important if you don't want to end up out there in the dark. Overall, this is a fantastic trail system for anyone looking to spend a little time outside and a great amenity for the close by North Jefferson...

This old railway trail has been turned into a walking, running or biking park. NO MOTORS ALLOWED. From the start of the trail at Black Creek Park until you reach the end at Shady Grove Road, it is 3.4 miles. The trail is conveniently marked every 1/2 mile. When you turn around at the end and go back to the park you will have completed 6.8 miles.

However, if you finish your trek at the farther brick building, past the softball fields, you will have completed 7 miles. This is a beautifully shaded trail. There are even 2 places to sit and rest if you need to. The quiet sounds of the woods is soothing. I highly...