Welcome

Sweet Trails Alabama is a unique collaborative initiative that will identify local, regional, and statewide trail projects. This statewide trail route plan will identify possible routes, trail communities, outdoor recreation economy sites, and highlight how the Sweet Trails Alabama project can create new opportunities in health and wellness, tourism, economic development, entrepreneurial growth, quality of life, workforce development, community engagement, and natural resource conservation.

View the Sweet Trails Alabama Draft Plan HERE

View the Sweet Trails Alabama Executive Summary HERE

Provide our team with valuable feedback HERE

Trail of the Month

The Richard Martin Trail travels nearly 11 miles from northern Athens in Limestone County to near the Tennessee border in Veto.  The trail follows a former rail bed through rural, bucolic northern Alabama countryside.  It is composed of crushed stone and gravel and accommodates equestrian, hiking, and biking/mountain biking use.  About halfway along the trail, the trail connects to Elkmont’s historic depot where shops, a trailhead, and restrooms are available.

The trail is named for local advocate Richard Martin who has spent tireless amount of energy and time to get the trail developed.  Richard continues to support efforts to extend the trail further north into Tennessee and south to connect to Athens, the Swan Creek Greenway, and the Singing River Trail.

Until 1986, the Tennessee & Alabama Central Railroad brought mail and supplies to area communities and carried away cotton.  The Veto trailhead includes the restoration of a 19th-century community church and restroom facilities. The trail passes the site of Civil War battles.  Today, the trail is enjoyed by naturalists, birdwatchers, historians, students, joggers, bikers, horseback riders, and outdoor enthusiasts of all types.