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Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail - Cotton Bayou Trailhead
4.9 ★★★★★ 16 Google reviews · Running trail in Orange Beach, Alabama · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Paved
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail - Cotton Bayou Trailhead's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
What runners say about Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail - Cotton Bayou Trailhead
“The trail offers a refreshing change of scenery from the beach, with beautiful, calming nature views—it's a great way to start the day.”
“Some parts of the trail may become crowded during summer time but usually during the offseason you can count on a quiet peaceful relaxing ride”
This is a fully paved trail system perfect for walking, running, or biking. There are lots of opportunities to experience wildlife. There are plenty of spots to stop and ponder life at benches along the path. The beauty of this trailhead is that you can start here 10 times and follow a different path every time.
Beautiful bike trail system, well traveled with great paved trails and good markers.
Incredible trail for biking, hiking, jogging, getting your outdoor time.
The Cotton Bayou Trailhead is one of our absolute favorite hidden gems in Orange Beach! It’s the perfect spot for a family morning outing. We love that we can take our toddler on a walk or even a bike ride, and she has a blast every time.
Trail conditions & character
“The trail offers a refreshing change of scenery from the beach, with beautiful, calming nature views—it's a great way to start the day.”
“Some parts of the trail may become crowded during summer time but usually during the offseason you can count on a quiet peaceful relaxing ride”
“Beautiful bike trail system, well traveled with great paved trails and good markers.”
Plan your run at Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail - Cotton Bayou Trailhead
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- SurfacePaved — asphalt or concrete. Fast and predictable, runnable year-round, and fine with a stroller
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- Phone+1 251-981-1063
Hours
| Monday | Open 24 hours |
| Tuesday | Open 24 hours |
| Wednesday | Open 24 hours |
| Thursday | Open 24 hours |
| Friday | Open 24 hours |
| Saturday | Open 24 hours |
| Sunday | Closed |
Running trails near Orange Beach
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
The Backcountry Trail
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Gulf Oak Ridge Trailhead West
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