Top 3 Walking Trails in Florence, Alabama for Nature Lovers

If you're searching for peaceful walking trails in Florence, Alabama, I’ve got three of my absolute favorites to share. Whether you’re getting your steps in, looking for a relaxing nature walk, or hoping to spot local wildlife, these trails offer a great way to enjoy the outdoors and see what makes The Shoals special.

1. Wildwood Park – A Local Favorite on Cypress Creek

Sunlight filters through the lush canopy of a tree in Cypress Creek near Wildwood Park, casting a serene glow.

Located right in the heart of Florence, Wildwood Park is one of the most popular outdoor spots in the city. On the west side of the park, you'll find a paved walking trail that runs alongside Cypress Creek, perfect for a peaceful stroll, jog, or a walk with family.

🧺 There are spots to step into the creek or sit and enjoy the view, especially during the warmer months. One thing that makes this trail special is the presence of pawpaw trees — a native fruiting plant that connects us to Alabama’s ancient forest ecosystems. Read more about pawpaws here.

🌿 This trail is also a common kayak take-out point, so it’s great for combining a walk with a paddling trip. If you're curious about the wildlife that lives along Cypress Creek, check out this recent blog post that highlights what to look for.

🚶‍♀️ On the east side of the park is a lesser-used unpaved trail through a more wooded area. It’s a bit steeper and more rugged than the paved section — great if you’re looking to break a sweat.

2. The Woodland Backside of McFarland Park

This area doesn’t show up on most trail maps, but it’s worth exploring. Once you enter McFarland Park from the westernmost entrance, park in the second lot on your right. From there, walk past the open fields and ponds until you reach the woods along the back of the park.

🦅 The forested area here feels quiet and undisturbed, a nice contrast to the more developed parts of the park. It’s a great spot to see and hear birds — especially woodpeckers like the downy, red-bellied, and pileated varieties. And keep an eye overhead; bald eagles are known to nest nearby.

🍇 As you follow the treeline, you may spot blackberries, hackberries, and even the occasional Osage orange tree — a unique native plant that dates back to the Ice Age. The path is mostly grass and packed dirt, and it’s a peaceful, natural escape if you don’t mind making your own way.

3. Patton Island Bridge Trail & TVA Overlook

Looking for walking trails in Florence Alabama with some of the best river views around? Start at the Florence side of the Patton Island Bridge and walk toward Muscle Shoals for a scenic mix of city, water, and nature.

🌉 This riverside trail follows the Tennessee River and gives you clear views of Wilson Dam and the chain of small islands beneath the bridge. It’s a nice, steady walk with minimal elevation change. If you look down near the shoreline on the Muscle Shoals side, you might spot a river otter doing its thing. It’s a cool little surprise that makes this walk worth repeating.

🦦 About ¾ of a mile in, the trail splits — take the left path for a short detour to the Wilson Dam overlook where you can watch the dam spillway and scan for wildlife.

🗺️ Want More Walking Trails in The Shoals?

There’s no shortage of great walking and hiking trails around Florence and The Shoals. Visit our interactive Trail Guide to explore more routes.

🛒 New: Check Out the Shoals Backyard Store

We’ve launched our very own Shoals Backyard Store — featuring trail-ready gear, local nature prints, and outdoor-friendly essentials. Every order supports our mission to clean up local trails, protect wild spaces, and keep The Shoals beautiful for everyone.