From maritime forest, to wetlands, and finally the sugary beach on the Gulf of Mexico, Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge in Mobile gives hikers a peek into what natural Alabama once looked like.
The refuge is one of the last and largest remaining parcels of undeveloped land along the coast in the state. Bon Secour translates to safe harbor, and the habitat is just that for many of its endangered residents. 
The Alabama beach mouse finds sanctuary here, it lives solely on the coast of Alabama in the sand dunes, eating the sea oats. Thousands of sea turtle hatchlings start their lives on the beach, nesting from June through October. Over 360 species of birds pass through the refuge, especially notable during migratory season.
Listen for the song of mockingbirds.
Watch for kestrels on the hunt.
In the Perdue unit of the refuge there are five miles of trails.
Magical tufts of reindeer lichen grow alongside the Gator Lake trail.
You will feel many miles away from the world, but Mobile is still visible in the not so far distance.
Passing through the natural, untouched dunes, you may want to ditch your shoes and walk barefoot.
Reaching the pristine shores of the Gulf beach is breathtaking.
Not a soul in either direction on what was a cold winters day.
Just miles of perfect soft white sand and sea salt air.
Good to know:
+Admission and parking are free
+Check calendar of events for bird walks and night hikes