All-Abilities Nature Exploration in Bankhead National Forest, April 24

Earth Month and our National Forests are for EVERYONE to celebrate and enjoy!

A Nature Exploration for All Abilities and All Ages

1:30 p.m.

Brushy Lake Recreation Area, Bankhead National Forest

All ages and abilities welcome!

Sign up at janice@wildsouth.org or 256-974-6166.  Include your phone number and let us know if there is a wheelchair user in your group.

Brushy Lake Recreation Area was developed in the 1930’s by the Civilian Conservation Corp for picnicking, hiking and camping.  It is located in the northeastern section of the Bankhead National Forest in northwest Alabama.  Visitors to the lake enjoy paved trails around the lake to the dam, a dirt trail along the sandstone bluffs, a fishing pier, picnic tables and grills.  Brushy Creek feeds the lake which is home to many kinds of birds and aquatic wildlife.  This time of year, the wildflowers are flourishing!

Towering pines, hemlocks, cypress and a grand diversity of hardwood trees make up the forest in the canyon around the lake.

Wheelchair users will enjoy the lake from the picnic area, paved trail and fishing pier.  This is a great hike for children and beginning hikers, too!

Facilities include wheelchair accessible restrooms, running water, picnic tables and grills.

Bring a small backpack with snacks, drinking water and personal items.  Don’t forget your camera and binoculars!

Dress for the weather.  Watch the forecast.

There is a $3 per car fee at the kiosk.

Dogs on hikes:  Only dogs that are well-behaved, peaceable, that get along well with other dogs and humans are welcome on Wild South hikes.  Dogs must remain leashed and under owner’s control at all times and not be allowed to mooch food from other hikers.

Ticks:  The most effective protection against tick-borne diseases is the type of permethrin product that is sprayed on clothing.  Permanone (by Repel) and Sawyers are a couple of brands.  Spray on clothing (not skin) at least 4 hours before wearing (that) clothing.  It has no scent whatsoever.

Meet at Brushy Lake Recreation Area at 1:30 on Sunday, April 24.  Here’s a MAP.  If needed, ask for directions upon signing up or inquiring.

Wild South hikes are part of our Outreach and Education Program and serve to introduce stakeholders to the wonders of our national forests and wilderness areas.  Hikes are free of charge but your donations are gratefully received and support our work of forest protection.  Wild South is a 501c3 non-profit organization.