Dunnavant Valley Greenway

Vader and I visited another (NEW) hiking trail today, with beautiful views and crystal clear, freshwater Creeks. Compared to my usual drive, It's off the beaten path a little bit, but easy to find and we will definitely be back to explore more, as it is a hiking trail that connects all the way to the top of a ridge in that area. Cross paths with a couple of people on the trail and they were wonderful, super nice folks.

Wow-what a gem! This is a lovely hike. I’d call it an *easy hike. It’s a lovely, winding path along the creek. The path is clearly marked. Lightly travelled in the fall on a gorgeous 55 degree day. The most elevation is the return to the parking lot. It’s an easy hike….however, there are plenty of rocks and roots which can be covered by leaves in the fall and winter, making it fairly slick and easy to trip up over. Not a problem at all, but be forewarned if you go after a rain! I ran into an older couple who was unprepared for the rock scrambles (which are really not difficult, but could be a problem for those with a greater “fall risk”. If you do t know what a “fall risk” is, then I imagine you don’t have to worry about it-haha!) Also note that it is 1.8 miles one way. So if my 1st grade math is right, that makes it a 3.6 Mile trip. I will be back and highly recommend this route!

Great hike. It was quite easy as well! There is lots of fungus here. If you see snakes leave them alone. You are likely to see a snake going into the wild, any wild animal at that. Keep your distance, watch where you step, and sit.

The greenway is a wonderful and underappreciated trail connecting the small primitive parking lot directly off of Dunnavant Valley road near Highland Lakes to the Shelby County soccer complex about 2 miles distant via the Creek bottom. There are no trash cans along the route but there is a picknic table and a few benches. There is a trash can at the parking lot but no pet bags so bring your own. Beautiful hardwood trees and magnolias dot the length of the trail. There is water and a restroom which is usually unlocked at the soccer complex. The trail follows the creek and is well shaded throughout making this a good walking trail even in the summer. Because it is well used, the trail is very easily followed even without signage. Although there are houses nearby the trail feels secluded. The trail is pretty narrow with many blind curves so not really good for cycling, but trail runners and those not afraid of rocks and roots will enjoy jogging the trail. It's a great trail for walking a dog as water access is excellent. Be cautious however with your dog as snakes are present (as is typical of creek trails in Alabama). Know the signs off a snake bite. Take advantage of this low key, free access trail next time you're nearby.

Very first hike. Good weather, very nice shaded areas. Wear some good shoes! The view at the overlook was worth the walk! I'm so glad I stuck it out!