Start Your Trek: 7 Unbeatable Hiking Retailers in Alabama

Start Your Trek: 7 Unbeatable Hiking Retailers in Alabama

There’s no better way to explore nature than on foot, and Alabama has some of prettiest sights you’ll ever see by trail. There’s a thriving hiking community in this state, which is why you’ll find plenty of retailers dedicated to helping hikers continue their passion for exploring. Before you hit your next trail, visit one of these seven top-notch hiking stores in Alabama to stock up on what you need. 

1. Gadsden Outfitters, Gadsden, AL

Your adventure begins at Gadsden Outfitters, where you’ll discover some of the best names in hiking. From boots to backpacks, you can completely outfit your next hiking journey in a single stop. Choose from top brands like the North Face, Patagonia, and Osprey that will motivate you to never stop exploring.

2. Alabama Outdoors, Birmingham, AL

This regional chain is dedicated to helping hikers get the right apparel and gear that will truly make a difference in their experience. They’ve been serving area hikers for the past 40 years, and have made outfitting your trip even easier with their ecommerce store. You’ll find all your favorite brands like Teva, Yeti, and Black Diamond, so stock up before you hit the trails.

3. Werner’s Trading Company, Cullman, AL

This family-owned second generation business has all the goods for a great hiking trip. Being heavily involved in their community, the owners and team members know the area well. They can help you get the most from your purchases with first-hand knowledge of their stuff works. Popular sellers include Chaco, KAVU, and Columbia.

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4. UG White Mercantile, Athens and Huntsville, AL

A little of this and a little of that are what make UG White Mercantile so special—you never know what you’ll find. This old-fashioned general store has many of the basics hikers need to enjoy a day of sightseeing on the trails, such as water bottles, knives, apparel, hats, bags, and bulk candy for a little trailside treat. Case knives is one of their most beloved brands—stock up for your next adventure.

5. The North Face, Birmingham, AL

When it comes to the great outdoors, no one knows the call of the wild better than the North Face. They make some of the most durable backpacks, apparel, and hiking boots you can get without sacrificing style. Their stores are dedicated exclusively to the North Face-branded products, so you can rest assured every purchase is the high quality you expect. 

#NorthFace for the cat. Why not?

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6. Academy Sports + Outdoors, Multiple locations

This sports and outdoors chain features several locations throughout Alabama, making it easy for residents all over to get what they need for a day on the trails. They feature a large selection of drinkware, backpacks, and sunglasses, along with outdoor clothing perfect for any type of weather. Check them out online or visit one of their stores to find brands like Magellan Outdoors and Columbia.  

7. Bass Pro Shops, Multiple locations

Bass Pro Shops’ massive square footage allows it to stock a serious inventory of hiking gear and supplies. If you’re embarking on an equestrian hike, you can find saddle bags and other gear for your horse companions here. Essentials like first aid kits, backpacks, and hydration solutions can be found amongst its aisles, as well as commonly overlooked items like ChapStick, sunscreen, and bug repellent. Some of their best brands include Camelbak and Adventure Medical.

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Alli Hill is a freelance content writer and mom of two. She spends most of her free time exploring the great outdoors by trail or by kayak. She is also the founder and director of FreelanceSpeak, a blog to support other freelance creatives.