Central Loop, North Alabama | Limestone | Best Seasons: Fall | Spring | Summer
The Beaverdam Swamp Boardwalk (Site #25, Central Loop) leads the visitor into the heart of the largest Tupelo Swamp in Alabama. While exploring the boardwalk, watch the canopy for active flocks of Tufted Titmice, Red-eyed Vireos, and warblers. The swamp usually rings with the songs of frogs, insects, and numerous birds including Eastern Wood-Pewee, Great-crested Flycatcher, and Yellow-billed Cuckoo.
During winter, Winter Wren can be found feeding under the boardwalk. The abundant standing dead timber attracts a variety of woodpeckers including Pileated, Red-bellied, and Downy. Later in the day, there is a chance to spot Barred Owl, whose distinct hooting is often heard deep inside the swamp.
Beaverdam Swamp Boardwalk trail crosses a swamp filled with some of the state’s largest water tupelo trees. Various species of frogs, turtles, small fish, snakes, and other reptiles and amphibians are often visible along the trail. Songbirds are common in the canopy as well.
GPS: 34.6490, -86.8190
Fee: Free
Amenities: Handicap Access, Parking, Hiking, Viewing Area
Contact Info:
U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS)
Site Accessibility
The parking area is paved and the trail is a combination of boardwalk and hard packed, finely ground gravel. The entry point from the hard packed gravel to the boardwalk has a nearly 2-inch barrier, making it hard to get a wheelchair onto the boardwalk if alone. The entry is also a short, fairly steep ramp, making access challenging for manual wheelchairs. The boardwalk is old and is buckled in a few locations, use caution. Most of the boardwalk is in fairly good repair, however. Boardwalk replacement work is planned for the future. There are several built in benches along the boardwalk, providing well spaced resting areas.
From intersection of I-65 and I-565 drive east towards Huntsville for 6.6 miles. Take Exit 7 (County Line Rd). Turn right (south) on County Line Rd, crossing over the interstate. Within 0.1 mile, turn right on Old Hwy 20, this road travels past an industrial area and dead ends at the trailhead in about 2 miles after running parallel to the interestate for much of the distance.
Amenities Available: Wheelchair Accessible
Nearby Sites
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Round Island Recreation Area
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