Words by Marla Price | Images by 67 Magazine, Al Blanton, Meek Elementary School, and Sipsey Creek Farm
The month of October ushers in the fall season, when activities are made better by cooler temperatures, colorful foliage, and sunny days. Here are some local ways to enjoy autumn’s glory in Winston County, Alabama.
Take a Hike
The Bankhead National Forest, called the “Land of a Thousand Waterfalls,” has 90 miles of trail to explore. Be sure to plan ahead, and remember that GPS and cell service is spotty. Take a map and a compass, and plan a day of adventure!
The Sipsey River Recreation and Picnic Area is a perfect start for several hiking excursions, or pack a picnic lunch for a short stop.
Another “can’t miss” attraction is privately-owned Natural Bridge Park, which affords visitors a view of the longest natural bridge east of the Rocky Mountains.
- 315 County Road 3500 Natural Bridge, AL 35577
- Mon – Fri 8 am – 4pm
- Weekends 8 am – 5 pm
- $10 for adults and $5 for children 6-12
Camping Under the Stars
Camping opportunities range from primitive, dispersed camping deep in the National Forest, to full-service RV campgrounds.
Clear Creek Recreation Area has large pavilions, bicycle paths, and hiking trails. The 102 RV campsites provide a fall getaway on the peaceful and quiet banks of Smith Lake.
Also on Smith Lake is Corinth Recreation Area, which offers facilities for camping, swimming, boating, and picnicking.
For a more unique “glamping” experience, check out Sipsey Creek Farm in Double Springs, where visitors will awaken to the crisp fall air in canvas bell tents.
Savor the Flavor of Fall
Whether you’re a pumpkin spice connoisseur or prefer to drink your coffee black, you can grab a cozy cup across a variety of locations serving specialty drinks.
- Linda’s Coffee Shack in Addison / Tues – Fri 6 am – 4 pm / Sat 8 am – 1 pm
- Soda Shop 41 in Arley / Wed – Fri 10:30 am – 6 pm / Sat 10 am – 5 pm
- The Groovy Brew in Double Springs / Tues 6:30 am – 1 pm / Wed – Fri 6:30 am – 5 pm
- Coop’s Coffee Station in Haleyville / Mon – Fri 5 am – 4 pm / Sat 6 am – 12 pm
- Southern Bliss Bistro in Haleyville / Mon – Fri 6:30 am – 4 pm / Sat 9 am – 2 pm
Visit a Pumpkin Patch
Located a stone’s throw from Winston County is Barking Cow Farms, home to animal encounters and a petting zoo, a playground with a bounce pillow, and horse-drawn carriage rides. Of course, this is the only time of year to visit their pumpkin patch, so plan a visit!
- 17446 Hwy 278 Brilliant, AL 35548
- Weekends 10 am – 5 pm / Tuesday – Friday 10 am – 4 pm
- Closed on Mondays except for Oct. 13
- Admission is $14. Ages 60 and up – $7.00. Ages 2 & under – free.
- Call or text 205-412-7846 for more information.
For more fun, check out these cultural and community events:
Camp McDowell’s Alabama Folk School “Old Time and Gee’s Bend” – Oct. 9-12
“The Lost Community of Cranal” featuring live music and storytelling – Oct. 11 at 5 pm at Looney’s Indoor Theater – Sponsored by the Winston County Arts Council. FREE.
Paint the Town Pink 5K/Fun Run – Oct. 18 at 7 am in Double Springs – Sponsored by the Panorama Study Club.
Three on a String at Looney’s Indoor Theater – Oct. 30 at 6 pm – Sponsored by the Winston County Arts Council – $20.00 at the door. 67
