Payne Creek canyon and the Sipsey River, Bankhead National Forest Saturday, September 4, 2010 Leader: Janice Barrett, Outreach Coordinator for Wild South Distance: Part 1 (Payne Creek) - 1 mile Part 2 (Sipsey River) 3/4 mile Rating: Moderately easy Appropriate for all ages Hikers must sign up in advance through
events@freshairfamily.org. Our hike will begin at the Payne Creek Demonstration Area on Highway 33, just north of the Sipsey River bridge. We will follow the Payne Creek trail 1/2 mile down into Payne Creek canyon, noticing along the way the transition of forest type from shortleaf pine, to upland hardwood, to cove hardwood and Eastern hemlock. In the canyon, we will enjoy the cold, rocky creek, a waterfall and a huge bluff shelter. Of course, we will search for salamanders and other aqua-critters! Then back up the trail, into our cars and down the hill to the Sipsey River where we will hike to the water and have lunch. The water in the river is at it's lowest this time of year, making it a perfect place to walk the shore to see beautiful late-summer flowers, wade in the water to look for fish, bask on the flat rocks, and explore this amazing eco-system. Bring a backpack lunch, snacks, plenty of drinking water. Dress for hot-weather hiking and count on getting wet. After signing up , meet at the Warrior Mountains Trading Company (11312 AL Hwy 33, Moulton, AL) 3 miles south of Moulton on Highway 33 at the intersection of Highway 36, at the flashing yellow light. Park on the south end of the store, close to the building, and come into the store. You will find sign-in sheets and a donation bucket on a table in the center of the store. This is where we will gather at 9:30 a.m. for a little chat, introductions, etc.
