Hugh Branyon Back Country Trail named nation’s best
Hugh Branyon Back Country Trail named nation’s best
In a state known for national championships, an Alabama recreational trail has repeated its national title. Alabama Beaches’ Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail in Gulf State Park was named Best Recreational Trail by USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards for the second consecutive year.
Winning the nationwide competition for two consecutive years, the 28 mile trail – spanning nine ecosystems through Gulf Shores, Gulf State Park, and Orange Beach – beat out a lengthy list of national competitors.
“What an amazing honor for our destination,” said an excited Beth Gendler, President & CEO of Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism. “This award is a testament to the vision and partnerships of our two cities, Gulf State Park, and our state conservation and natural resources team. Awards like this show the value of and interest in outdoor recreation activities among both residents and visitors. The Backcountry Trail is such a tremendous asset to our destination.”
“Just like we are stewards of Alabama’s beaches, we are stewards of our public parks, and the Backcountry Trail is a shining example of what’s possible through cooperation between city and state organizations,” said Orange Beach Mayor Tony Kennon.
“ The success of the trail would not be possible without the hard work, each and every day, of Orange Beach Coastal Resources and Gulf State Park staff who help keep it clean and safe for millions of visitors each year. Congratulations to everyone who had a hand in making the Backcountry Trail the best in 2024.”
“The Backcountry Trail creates a vital balance between the natural environment and our developed communities and it provides the opportunity to experience the way the Gulf Coast was prior to the development of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach,” said Gulf Shores Mayor Robert Craft.
“When we first started developing this trail system, I am sure none of us envisioned it would win national awards,” said Phillip West, director of Orange Beach Coastal Resources. “I hope other communities will look at this project as a model for collaboration and create an amazing asset for their citizens, and visitors.”
Chessie Trail (Lexington, Va.). Katy Trail (Missouri), Great Allegheny Passage (Maryland and Pennsylvania) and Prisma Health Swamp Rabbit Trail System (Greenville County, S.C.) rounded out USA Today’s Top 5.