When I hear mention of Alabama, I think of red dirt. And kudzu vine, aka mile-a-night.

During the Summer when I was twelve, we planned a road trip to the Great Smoky Mountains. Our route there went through Alabama; and we kids flew ahead to Birmingham, where an aunt of ours lived.

That was when we first saw kudzu, nicknamed mile-a-night because it grows so fast. We were fascinated by the sight of orangish dirt. It’s also hilly around Birmingham.

Time to haul out that mountain bike and hit some trails, wouldn’t you think?

The Vulcan Trail is an easy route with views of the city. Trail users can walk; jog; bicycle; skate; and even walk the dog. But is that too tame for a hard-core MTB enthusiast?

Black Creek Park features a Rails to Trails route; smooth and level. That’s a good one for me; but again, the MTB fan might find it overly easy.

Ruffner Mountain? Are we finally getting somewhere? This one sounds like it has possibilities for MTB fans. Unfortunately, it looks as though mountain-biking is forbidden there. I guess they don’t want MTB riders tearing up the switchbacks; and I really can’t blame them. Ruffner Mountain is, after all, a nature preserve.

How about heading for Anniston? There are a number of MTB trails to choose from. These range in skill level from Easy to Difficult. Something for everyone!

Alabama has more to offer than MTB trails, of course. There are beaches; and there are museums, such as the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville. In Birmingham you can take a Civil Rights Tour.

Whatever your tastes, the “Heart of Dixie” has plenty to offer!