Jeff Friend Trail Bon Secour
A serene, accessible 0.85-mile loop trail through maritime forest to the Little Lagoon, perfect for nature lovers and families.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Escape the heat and crowds
Jeff Friend Trail Bon Secour
Best Time
Escape the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene, accessible 0.85-mile loop trail through maritime forest to the Little Lagoon, perfect for nature lovers and families.
"An easy, level trail loop about 1 mile. Wonderful walk through maritime forest and lagoon shoreline."
stroller/wheelchair friendly
The trail transitions from gravel to boardwalk, making it easy to navigate with strollers or wheelchairs. :wheelchair:
Pack a picnic
Benches by the lagoon are perfect for a relaxing lunch or snack with a view. :sandwich:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Maritime Forest Walk
Trail Loop
Wander through lush greenery and observe native flora and fauna on this easy, level path.
Little Lagoon Shoreline
Lagoon Access Points
Enjoy beautiful views and access to the tranquil Little Lagoon, perfect for quiet contemplation.
Wildlife Viewing Spots
Along the Trail
Keep an eye out for lizards, butterflies, and a variety of birds in this vibrant ecosystem.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Easy Access to Nature
Best for a Relaxing Break
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Favorite/Best Hiking Trails In Gulf Shores Orange Beach area?
stroller/wheelchair friendly
The trail transitions from gravel to boardwalk, making it easy to navigate with strollers or wheelchairs. :wheelchair:
Pack a picnic
Benches by the lagoon are perfect for a relaxing lunch or snack with a view. :sandwich:
Looking for great hiking in the area!
Please help me with my proposal!!
Great for photos
The beautiful greenery and lagoon views make this a prime spot for a beachy photoshoot. :camerawithflash:
Easy nature escape
A perfect short hike for families with younger kids looking for nature. :child:
Kayaking spots
Tips
from all over the internet
stroller/wheelchair friendly
The trail transitions from gravel to boardwalk, making it easy to navigate with strollers or wheelchairs. :wheelchair:
Pack a picnic
Benches by the lagoon are perfect for a relaxing lunch or snack with a view. :sandwich:
Great for photos
The beautiful greenery and lagoon views make this a prime spot for a beachy photoshoot. :camerawithflash:
Easy nature escape
A perfect short hike for families with younger kids looking for nature. :child:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Jeff Friend Trail's easy accessibility and serene natural beauty. It's lauded as a perfect spot for a peaceful stroll, wildlife observation, and enjoying the tranquil Little Lagoon. While short, its charm lies in its simplicity and free access, making it a delightful escape from busier tourist areas.
"An easy, level trail loop about 1 mile. Wonderful walk through maritime forest and lagoon shoreline. Benches allow for resting and taking in the view. A special place."
Susan
"Easy loop hike on boardwalks to the Little Lagoon beach with plenty of flora and fauna viewing."
Joanie Bleck
"Phenomenal little trail. Very easy. Flat and leads out to a great view of the lagoon. Bring some lunch and sit by the water. There’s a short boardwalk and some benches when you reach the water. Loop trail so you don’t have to see the same thing twice. Free parking. Only about 15-20 mins from the main strip in Gulf Shores. We come when we want to get out of the crowded area for a bit. You can see a lot of lizards and butterflies on this trail. Beautiful greenery. Would be a cool place for a beachy photoshoot."
Isabella
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Jeff Friend Trail is located near Gulf Shores, Alabama. It's about a 15-20 minute drive from the main strip of Gulf Shores. There is free parking available at the trailhead.
Yes, there is free parking available at the trailhead, making it convenient for visitors.
The trail is generally easy to find, especially if you're coming from Gulf Shores. Look for signs for the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Jeff Friend Trail is free to access, and parking is also complimentary. This makes it a great budget-friendly option for enjoying nature.
While specific hours aren't always posted, trails in natural areas are typically accessible from dawn until dusk. It's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
No advance booking is required for Jeff Friend Trail as it is a public access trail and entry is free.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The loop trail is approximately 0.85 miles long, making it a short and manageable walk for most visitors.
Absolutely! The trail is described as flat and smooth, transitioning from gravel to decking, which makes it very accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.
You can expect a beautiful walk through a maritime forest with views of the Little Lagoon shoreline. It's known for its native flora and opportunities to see wildlife like lizards and butterflies.
Yes, there are benches located along the trail and at the lagoon shoreline, providing opportunities to rest and enjoy the scenery.
While the trail leads to the Little Lagoon, direct swimming access might be limited. It's more of a scenic spot to relax by the water rather than a designated swimming beach.
📸 📸 Photography
The shoreline of the Little Lagoon offers beautiful water views, especially during sunrise and sunset. The lush maritime forest also provides a scenic backdrop with its native plants and potential wildlife sightings.
The serene natural setting with lagoon views makes it a picturesque location for proposal photos or engagement shoots. The peaceful atmosphere adds to the romantic potential.
Early morning or late afternoon, especially during the 'golden hour' before sunset, offers the most flattering light for photography. Sunsets are noted as being particularly beautiful here.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
📸 Photographers & Nature Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit