Hike in Bankhead National Forest, Saturday, January 27

Hike with Wild South in the Bankhead National Forest

Saturday, January 27

9:00 a.m. at the Wild South office 552 Lawrence Street, Moulton, Alabama

Sign up at janice@wildsouth.org or 256-974-6166.  Advance registration is required.

Destination:  Key Mill Branch

Leader:  Tim Davis

Distance:  Approx. 4 miles roundtrip

Level of Challenge:  Moderate (mostly off-trail with some briefly steep slopes)

Ages 8 and over are welcome.

Key Mill Branch is located in the northeast portion of the Bankhead National Forest in the Brushy Creek watershed.

Tim Davis will lead the group in on the Owl Creek horse trail a short distance before leaving the trail and descending into the canyon.

The branch was the site of an operating mill till 1953, and some of the remains of the water wheel mechanism can still be seen there.  In 2007, a helicopter crashed on the ridge above the branch.  During times of normal winter rainfall, there are close to a dozen waterfalls.  There is a very large and unique sandstone bluff shelter and beautiful views.

The hike is mostly off-trail.  Be prepared with boots with ankle support and good soles. There will be boulders, rocks that can roll an ankle and tripping hazards hidden in the leaf litter.  The climb down into the canyon is steep and can be strenuous.  There will be some narrow, shallow creek crossings.

Bring a backpack with lunch, snacks, drinking water.  This is an extraordinarily scenic area, so you’ll want your camera!  A walking stick will help with creek crossings and the uneven, rugged terrain.

Dress for the weather, in layers.  Bring rain gear if rain is forecast.  Keep an eye on the forecast.  We do not always cancel a hike because of weather, so be prepared!

After signing up, meet at the Wild South office (see address and map link above) at 9:00 a.m.

DOGS ON WILD SOUTH HIKES:  Well-behaved, socialized, non-threatening dogs may come on Wild South hikes but must be leashed at all times.

Wild South hikes are free of charge because we want people to get out there and get to know their forest!  However, there will be a donation bucket on the picnic table.  All hiker donations directly support our hikes and education program.  Thank you for your support!

Check out our other Winter Warmer Weekend activities!