How about an introduction?

[Fiddler]

Hello, I am the Fiddler. I live presently in northern Illinois, originally from Alabama. I like walking, anything from a couple of hours to a couple of weeks. Someday I want to hike the Appalachian Trail. The only place I've hiked in AL was Connecuh, it was a very nice place. I am recently retired, so I will have more time and freedom to travel and do the things I want to do.

[Magic City Matt]

I guess I should probably do the same. My Name is Matthew. I live in Birmingham AL. I spend my time working for UAB during the week and Hiking on the weekends whenever possible. I am the proud husband of Merlesray and I guess you could call me the webmaster of this site. I really hate the name webmaster though. It sounds so evil. Let's go with Gracious Host of this site.

[Suz]

I'm Susan, I grew up in Huntsville, hiking Monte Sano and Joe Wheeler Wildlife Refuge, then moved to B'ham, later GA and hiked most of North GA, Eastern TN, and SW North Carolina, back in AL and hiking Bankhead, and any other trails I can find.  Hiking takes me close to my obsession which is native plants.

[Delynn]

I'm Delynn Bouldin, and live in Reform Alabama.  I hike Sipsey Wilderness and the GSMNP pretty frequently.  I'm the Scoutmaster for Troop 15 in Reform as well. 

[Grounded]

I'm Scott, here in the Mobile area. I haven't been on a bonafied out door over nighter since I was in boy scouts 20+ years ago. I've day hiked here and there and I'm ready to get back out of doors. With everything thats changed, I have some catching up to do (litterally and figuratively).

[Joshua Szulecki]

I'm Josh, I'm a third year law student here in Birmingham (Cumberland), but I've lived in several different states in my life. My primary motivation for hiking these days is waterfall related, but I've been hiking off and on since I was a kid, starting when I was pretty little with a very long hike at the Delaware Water Gap. Been out looking for waterfalls in Maryland, Virginia, Tennesee, Alabama, Georgia, Pennsylvania, New York, etc... Here in Alabama I've done some short bushwhacking in Sipsey, some on and off trail hiking in Bankhead & Talladega National Forests, and I've been to pretty much every waterfall I've been able to find and get at in Alabama in the two years I've been here. I've driven the Blue Ridge Parkway, Skyline Drive, and Cherohala Skyway from end to end. I make frequent visits to GSMNP.

I run a website on which I've tried to list and provide a photograph of every waterfall in the state of Alabama (and Maryland where I used to live). I don't really try to give extensive directions, because with the current number it would just be too time consuming, and trail directions are better left to user participation sites like this, because a single person has trouble keeping up with changing trail conditions. The website is currently being revised and moved to a new address, so it doesn't reflect the current known total, which is well over a hundred. The site is at http://waterfalls.szulecki.com

You can see the raw list (it is missing a few that I know about) at: http://waterfalls.szulecki.com/falls.txt

I was in Sipsey and Bankhead today (Caney Creek Falls was primary destination) and I had a quick realization that I haven't been hiking in a while. That's a steep climb out at Caney Creek.

[Magic City Matt]

That's a very extensive list man. Welcome, and make sure and add your site in the links section.

[Lesley]

Mer-les here.... Hiking for as long as I can remember (thanks mom). Been loads of places in the southeast. My most memorable hike was in the Joyce Kilmer National Forest (NC I believe). As I live in Alabama I've been exploring it more in depth than anywhere else.

[BigWaveDave]

Dave here, hello to all. I live in Gulf Breeze just down the road. Spent a some time on the Pinhoti, it never fails to kick my butt. I will be doing a couple of weeks on the AT in April or May 2008. I'm always interested in new places to hike in AL as its not a far trip from the house. "All who wander are not lost"

[lawnmowwer]

High my name is Rodney. I live in Moody (just outside of B-ham). I have been hiking and packing for most of 20 years. I have hike in Bankhead NF, Talladega NF, Rocky Mountian NP, Some of the AT and North GA, Nantahala NF, Via Vida NP( northren New Mexico), and Philmont Scout Ranch to name a few. Hope to see you on the trail.                                                                Pack for life it's not a vidieo game yet. 

[Slade]

I'm Slade. I am currently into Mtn. Biking but I started with Hiking and graduated into caving. I worked as a wild cave guide in Tennessee for awhile and I also used to sell hiking boots, backpacks, and tents for Rogers Trading company (that was at least 7 years ago). I now work for RBC Centura Bank during the day, am a proud dad at night and Mtn. Bike on the weekends.

I am still interested in some camping but I really only want to do it out of a car and near a Mtn. Bike trail head.

Hope to meet a few of you someday (at least those I don't already know).

[theprocon]

Hey guys, I'm Justin Eggleton. With the brief exception of 5 years in Orlando, I have lived in the Birmingham area all my life. I love the ourdoors! I mt bike more than anything these day, and that has taken me to trails all over the Southeast....too many to name here. I really used to be into backpacking, but it always took so much planning, so I ride more than anything. I have been collecting photos and maps along the way, so I will have that stuff posted soon.

[SGT Rock]

I just found out about your forum here through WhiteBlaze and thought I would pop in and check it out. I'm originally from Decatur and have hiked the Pinhoti, Sipsey Wilderness, and a few other places around the state.

Roll Tide.

[Ghosthiker]

My trail name is Ghosthiker, but my real name is Ron. I was born and raised in Montgomery, but recently moved to NW Georgia. I broke into hiking with the scouts in the 70's. Anyone remember the Horseshoe Bend trail? After many years of enjoying the outdoors, but only some day hiking, I am getting back into backpacking. I now only live 40 miles from Springer and have started planning a weeks trip from Deep Gap in NC to Amicalola on the AT for next April. I'll be doing some warm-up trips in the Cohuttas this fall and early spring. Having read about the Pinhoti, it interests me, too. But, so does the BMT. Ah, so many trails, so little time off.....

[AT Hiker]

My name is Dave, I live in Chicago. I have not hiked in Alabama yet (well I took a walk down the beach from the FloraBama LOL) I frequent the area though, since my daughter lives in Fort Walton Beach. I hope to do a few days on the Pinhoti on one of my trips down to see my daughter.

[ridgewalker]

Whassup...my name is Sam, from Huntsville. Been hiking all my life, 47 years old, but I like other outdoor activities as well...deer hunting, trout fishing mainly. I try to make 2-3 overnight hikes every year. Wish I could do more, but the folks I owe money to would get highly upset. 3-5 day hikes are my favorite...anyth ing more and I start really missing my wife's cooking. Smoky Mountains are my favorite hikes (lots of experience there), but not exclusively.  Best trip was Seven Lakes Basin/High Divide in the Olympics, WA.

[SGT Rock]

Dave, you look familiar.

[Magic City Matt]

I did horseshoe bend when I was in scouts. I don't remember next to anything about it other than it was hot as a dickens when we went.

[Magic City Matt]

I just found out about your forum here through WhiteBlaze and thought I would pop in and check it out. I'm originally from Decatur and have hiked the Pinhoti, Sipsey Wilderness, and a few other places around the state.

Roll Tide.

Welcome Rock. I was hoping you would come check things out. For those of you who have not seen it. Make sure and check out this guys website. http://hikinghq.net/  It is full of some of the best info you can find on the net for all aspects of Hiking and backpacking. One I check at least once a week.

[AT Hiker]

Dave, you look familiar.

Do I know you? I'm kinda anti-social LOL

[ke4uzi]

Tim Rolan from Wetumpka,Al. Asst. Scoutmaster, Leave no Trace trainer, Father of three, Beekeeper,Iguana keeper, wood machinist by profession.

Many,many interest master of little....
Hello everyone.

[Nalgene Ninja]

Hello, I'm Jarod from Huntsville. I'm 35 married w/ 3 small daughters. I grew up in the woods of Mississippi, so when I walked outside w/out being on a road, I was "hiking" practically my whole life. With the 3 small girls, we (Dw and I) haven't had a chance to try backpacking more than a couple of times. So right now (and until all 3 are able to carry a pack) we car camp and dayhike.

Only been hiking here in AL this year though. So far we've been to Desoto SP, Monte Santo SP, Sipsey Wilderness and GSMNP.

[lawnmowwer]

Lets hear from some of our new people out there. Hope to catch some of you on the trail soon. By the way I would like your imput on some of the old topics. No one can know it all and I love new ideas. If your new to our sports the only stupid question is the one not ask. Your life could depend on it.

[Skippy]

Hello everyone,My name is Brett Page.I live in Oneonta,Alabama.I have lived in Alabama all of my life.I am married and have 3 kids.My oldest son is in the USMC,a daughter at Troy,and a 16 year old still at home.I have been backpacking for about 6 years.
I really enjoy walking and try to go every chance that I get.Most of my trips have been on the AT and the Pinhoti.I have also been to Sipsey a couple of times.I have really enjoyed the web site and am looking forward to meeting some of you on some of the trips.

[FIREDAVE]

I'M David Griffith I live in Trussville Al. I am charter org, rep. for B.S.A. Troop 915 / Trussville fire  I have been hiking and camping with the troop for 7 years. I like to day hike and backpack. mostly I like to be outside and meet new people. I am 47 years old.

[lawnmowwer]

Hay, FireDave. I think We meet at Sipsey. Glade to see you got over here. I look forward to hearing your opinion on some of the topics in the future.

[Lostsheep]

I guess I'm the newest guy here, so I thought I'd continue with the introductions.

I'm known as Lostsheep on Backpacker.com and now here. I an an Ass. Camporee Chairman for the Tukabatchee Area Council - Ecunchatee District in Montgomery, Al, but live just east of Birmingham in St. Clair county. My father is currently on the board there in MGM so I assist him as much as possible. I get the satisfaction out of helping young kids enjoy the outdoors.

I work inside the the city of Birmingham and have been here for a few years now. When I'm out hiking I prefer Oak Mtn. State park, Wind Creek State park, Monte Sano park, and the Sipsey Wilderness. I'm very interested in the Walls of Jericho and the Pinhoti Trail.

I hope to hang around here for a while and see what happens, and who knows, mabye go hiking with someone local!

[MoBill122]

My name is Bill, age 56.    Grew up in Gadsden, AL next to Noccolula Fall's, moved to Mobile in 1983.... and now, in 2007 to Woodstock, GA. 
Probably walked half the Pinhoti Trail, before there was a trail, when I was a teenager,  seemed I just liked to keep walking when I was in the Talledega Forest. 
Missed the mountains while in Mobile for 25 years, and now feel back home.     
Have the time to hike now, and planning to hike the Pinhoti from Al/GA line south in a few weeks.  Come home, take a bath and go back to hike to the south end.   Although, by then, I may need a new wife... she's not the outdoorsy type, she thinks I'm really losing it this time ! !   
Plan to finish hiking the GA Pinhoti after that, and perhaps the Georgia part of the AT later in year.

Anyone in NW Georgia want to come along ?  Oh... I'm a slow walker too...  I like to explore nature...not just run through it at 20 miles a day !   LOL 

[Magic City Matt]

awsome Bill. My wife grew up near woodstock I believe. Good to have you along.

[SteveO]

Sure why not...

 My name is Steve and I have been into hiking since I was a kid. My parents were big into hiking and we had outings at state parks and preserves at least once a month. Ive since gotten into nature photography which just gives me more of a reason to be in the woods.

Ive worked in Law Enforcement for the past 4 years and before that I was in the Air Force for a spell. 
I currently live in Pleasant Grove, Alabama with my fiance and 2 small dogs. (Great dane and German Shepherd)

[lawnmowwer]

pushing this one backup

[Rob]

Welcome aboard Bearleader...Are you referring to Myakka River S.P. in Fla.? I used to go there as a kid in the 60's and early 70's. Was an interesting lil' eco system in those days, lots of swamps and wildlife, primarily Skeeters, bullfrogs and gators. They used to have CCC cabins for rent for an extremly nominal fee. Came furnished with bunk beds animal hide chairs and picnic table. Was one of my fondest memories as a kid.   Happy Trails to you and your Family!

[sam4msu]

Hey all...I'm Sam and I live in Owens Cross Roads(Huntsville)  I grew up in Maryland but have lived in the south (Mississippi, Alabama twice, Georgia, South Carolina and Florida) for the last 21 years.  I love to backpack in the Sipsey and dayhike all of the trails here in the Huntsville area and the Walls of Jericho.

[Joshua Szulecki]

Sam,

Where in Maryland?

I came down to Alabama from there three years ago, and I'm heading back this summer. I'm sad to give up Bankhead and all of Alabama's waterfalls, but eager to be closer to my family.

[sam4msu]

I grew up just outside of Silver Spring.  Right on Rt 29 in Burtonsville.  Paint Branch High School.  That area has sure changed since I lived there.  I grew up surrounded by cows, not the only cow you see in that area is in the Safeway.  Good luck and tell Md. I said "Hi"

[Joshua Szulecki]

Sam,

I know exactly where you are talking about.

I grew up in Westminster, and that area is slowly turning into what Montgomery and PG counties are now. Give a few more decades. You can't escape it, even Birmingham is sprawling.

[Lostsheep]

Welcome JayBird. Ya' know, since you're so intertwined w/ Auburn, I'm supposed to dislike you. I'm from THE University of Alabama Either way, good going on your credentials from AU. My wife is currently finishing up her masters degree from there in Animal Science & Developmental Biology.

Being in the Liberty Park area, you're definitely not too far from my location. I'm around the I-459/Hwy 280 area.

I haven't said welcome to you either BearLeader...so, WELCOME. Tell your kids to stick with the scouts. My parents told me to stick with it and now I would have regretted it if I had of dropped. About your geocaching habit, you'll have to hit me up sometime when you need help w/ some of the caches. I have a few captured under my belt too! Quite fun.

Welcome to the boards everybody!

[ednotmilkman]

hi all,

I'm from Enterprise - relatively new to overnight hiking, but have hiked Conecuh N F , and some of the Pinhoti just this year. I may be the first here to admit to also hiking with the Sierra Club some. I'm even headed to Big Bend NP this Fiday for one of their "service trips" , and my excuse is I get to see my sister's family also out west of San Antonio. Enjoyed meeting "lawnmower" two weekends ago and hope to get to know others along our path through ALTrails. I love to ID all the trees and assorted plant life if I have a field guide and the time, but don't get so excited about "just another nice waterfall" I'm 47, single and kinda lonely, so a hike with a new friend is always a treat.
Edwin

[lawnmowwer]

 Hi everyone!

 Good to hear from some of you newer people. I enjoyed the hike with Edwin. We ran across Jaybird. Good to meet you also. I hope to see somemore of you soon.

[PastorLarryT]

Okay... I'm Larry from Prattville (Alabama's Fountain City!).  Enjoyed hiking since my youth in the "woods" behind parents.  Born and raised in Alabama and most of my hiking has been in this lovely state.  Been to most of the state parks but still have Sipsey Wilderness to check on my list.  Most of my hikes are day hikes in central and north central AL, but also enjoy an overnighter/backcountry expedition.

Favorite recent trails are:  Bright Angel Trail (Grand Canyon NP AZ), Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail, Deadening Trail, Walls of Jericho, and of course, Mountain Creek.  Enjoy some mountain biking on the Trails of Legends/Swayback Bridge Trail.

Upcoming backcountry hikes:  Providence Canyon GA SP, Conecuh NF, and Sipsey Wilderness.
Long-range Plans:  Yellowstone, Yosemite, and Sequoia in 2009!!!

Hello everyone.

[Woody]

Hello All,

Woody here, I live in Hanceville, AL close to Cullman and love backpacking, making gear, fly-fishing (is there another kind of fishing?), canoeing, playing guitar, and golfing just to mention a few of my hobbies (my wife says I have too many). Auburn Grad, "War Eagle"! I'm 25 but have been hiking and backpacking for some time now. I mostly hike the AT, PT, and Sipsey Wilderness. I'm heading to Telico, TN at the end of the month for a three or four day hike-in trout fishing trip. Hope I can share and learn some good stuff. See you out there.