Hipmunk Hotels: Adventures in Alabama and Arkansas (the Gulf Shores, Mobile, Huntsville, and more)

The post below was originally published on Mapping Megan‘s site this month.

Arkansas and Alabama are two of the most naturally beautiful States in America, so it comes as no surprise that outdoor adventurers flock here from every corner of the globe.

With plenty of adventure on offer in the sky, on the water, and on land, you’ll never be bored with a trip to one of the following southern destinations. This is a list of epic adventures in Alabama and Arkansas: the Gulf Shores, Mobile, Huntsville, and more.

Gulf Shores, Alabama

There are plenty of options for adventure in Alabama’s Gulf Shores, and those who love spending time on the water are in for a treat. Adventure here ranges from dolphin cruises to chartered fishing trips, and there are boat rentals available for those excited about exploring the Gulf of Mexico and the back bays.

Prefer a land-based adventure? Try the Historic Fort Morgan or the zipline course at Gulf State Park. Gulf Shores is a resort community, so hotels here are very close to each of the above attractions.

Photo CC by The Pug Father

Mobile, Alabama

Mobile was selected by National Geographic as one of America’s 100 best adventure towns, and the options here won’t disappoint. This is a historic port city that serious fishers and shipwreck explorers will absolutely love. Kayakers and hikers revel in old Native American shell mounts, and many travel here to charter sailboats in the Gulf of Mexico for deep-sea fishing.

The best part about an adventure holiday in Mobile is the cheap lodging. Book at the Hampton Inn Mobile/Bellingrath Gardens for rooms starting at $100 per night.

Huntsville, Alabama

Hunstville is a fantastic destination for outdoor adventure, offering Alabama’s very best trails for hiking, cycling, trail running, climbing, mountain biking, paddling, and more. Whether you’re aiming for a quick excursion or a multi-day adventure, Huntsville has a lot to offer.

For the best climbing, head to Jamestown. For the best paddling, head to the Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge. Head to Monte Sano State Park for scenic trail running.

Huntsville is a picturesque place, so be sure to book a hotel with a good view.

Hot Springs Village, Arkansas

While known for its naturally hot springs, Hot Springs Village is a great opportunity to try ziplining in Arkansas, and many different packages are available, from the original canopy zip tour to a full moon zip and even a haunted forest tour.

The full moon tour is particularly adventurous. Once a month, travelers gather for the thrill of zipping through a dark forest! Arriving at dusk, you will harness up and get ready to soar through the night-time sky.

Photo CC by edwardotis

Little Rock, Arkansas

For those looking for some extreme adventure, Little Rock has you covered. If you enjoy the sensation of free-falling, try skydiving, parachuting, hang gliding, or a range of other aerial sports. There is no better way to take in the breathtaking panoramic view of Arkansas than with a bird’s-eye view.

A great place for hang gliding is at Mount Magazine. At 2.753 feet high, this is the state’s tallest mountain. You can also hang glide at Mount Nebo or the Ouachita Mountains.