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Shoal Creek Preserve
4.5 ★★★★★ 28 Google reviews · Running trail in Florence, Alabama · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Crushed gravel
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
Confirmed from Shoal Creek Preserve'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 Shoal Creek Preserve
“Lawson branch trail has scenic waterfall and azaleas that bloom in spring.”
“Trail is WELL marked and the sites you see is breathtaking.”
“This is fairly an easy walk just one pretty good size of hill at the end.”
Update: Returned here a couple of days ago. So so many ticks. Protect yourself. Seems like at some point road was repaired but still plenty of potholes, just not as deep. Very well marked trails. Go slow on the gravel road leading up to trails, it's especially rough the last little bit. Very enjoyable walk.
We love these little hiking trails even my 3 year old enjoys hiking on this trail and can do most of it without help on some of the steep incline he has to hold mommy or daddy's hand going down would definitely recommend for an easy hike
Great trails for hiking, riding bikes, or horse back riding. Beautiful views of the river and several small waterfalls on the creek.
Wife and Son and I walked the red trail. This is fairly an easy walk just one pretty good size of hill at the end. Trail is WELL marked and the sites you see is breathtaking. I would totally recommend spending some time on this hike. I will definitely go again in a new season of the year to observe the changes.
Trail conditions & character
“Lawson branch trail has scenic waterfall and azaleas that bloom in spring.”
“This is fairly an easy walk just one pretty good size of hill at the end.”
“Trail is WELL marked and the sites you see is breathtaking.”
“Go slow on the gravel road leading up to trails, it's especially rough the last little bit.”
Plan your run at Shoal Creek Preserve
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- SurfaceCrushed gravel — the rail-trail classic: softer than asphalt, still smooth enough for tempo work
- 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.
Running trails near Florence
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Shoal Creek Preserve
4.7 ★★★★★ 64 reviews
Natural area for hiking and horseback riding featuring trails that wind through forests and cross creeks and waterfalls.
Deibert Park
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Tranquil park featuring interpretive walking trails, a children's museum, ponds & a playground.
River Heritage Park
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Riverside area featuring a frisbee golf course and playgrounds, plus a fountain, swings and slides.
Interactive Play Fountain At River Heritage Park
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City park featuring large water jets for kids to play in during the summer months.
Martin Park
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Park offering an outdoor swimming pool, tennis courts & a playground, along with pavilions.