Dunnavant Valley Greenway

Dunnavant Valley was suggested by a friend & after looking over reviews, I decided it was well worth checking out. I was NOT disappointed! One reviewer stated that it seemed 'magical' that the trees provided a canopy of shade over the trails & as I discovered, it stayed that way all throughout. This also provided cooler temperatures, which was nice. There is a gravel parking area with a map & trails are very easily marked. I consider this to be a very easy hike. Just be watchful of rocks & tree roots crossing through the trails. We saw a few folks with their dogs while out & they picked up after them & disposed of waste in the trashcan at the start of the trail. I think this is a wonderful trail for any level hiker that is able-bodied. The trails follow the creek & have several paths that lead you straight into the water. I was surprised to see a small waterfall, especially since it's been a while since we've had rain.

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.

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.

Loved this trail! A couple of adventurous spots but nothing too wild. I saw folks walking their dogs and folks with their kids. If you like walking next to water like me, it’s definitely a good one :) There are a couple of benches along the path and a picnic area towards the end. Overall trail is 1.8 miles in one direction, but you’ll need to walk back the same path to get back to your car.