Darker Shades

Visitors and nature lovers alike will marvel at the natural attractions that can be found in the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge in nearby Gulf Shores. This sprawling 6,000-plus-acre wildlife refuge preserves the coastline's native flora and fauna as well as coyotes, foxes, American alligators and countless species of migratory birds. And in addition to those visually stunning inhabitants, you will also encounter some creatures that are a little out of the ordinary. These include the Alabama beach mouse which is on the endangered species list. You can also get even closer to all this natural beauty by hitting one of the many trails that allow you to explore the park at your own pace.

Instead of seeing the sights like everyone else, set yourself apart as you become airborne for an unforgettable ride with the pros at Mobile Helicopter Charters . See Mobile from the utterly amazing heights on a helicopter as it glides through the Alabama skies to offer you the opportunity of a highly unique adventure. Don't forget your camera as you will be flying above the area's picturesque landscape and surrounding countryside. Also, you can customize your tour to see specific sections of town from the comfort of your propeller-propelled aircraft.

Seeing the world from behind a set of handlebars is something that is truly a unique experience for mountain bikers of all ages and skill levels. To hit the trail and develop those skills even more, Chickasabogue Park in Mobile is a favorite destination. This trail features ten miles of singletrack that loops through the park. It ranks as not only one of the most scenic recreational trails, but also one of the most challenging.