Field Trip: Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park

This month’s half-day field trip takes us to the rich woodlands of Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park, the site of an early iron furnace located at the southwestern end of the Appalachian Mountains. A favorite stop on the Appalachian Highlands Birding Trail, Tannehill’s easy trails, beautiful scenery, and relative proximity to Birmingham make it a must-visit site for beginning and experienced birders alike.

The details: Meetup is at 7 a.m. at the McDonald’s in McCalla (4746 Eastern Valley Road), located just off I-459 (Exit 1). From there, we’ll carpool and caravan southwest on Eastern Valley Road to the park entrance. Admission is $5 for adults under 62, $4 for seniors, and $3 for children ages 6 to 11. For more information, including phone numbers and trail maps, visit the park’s website.

As always, remember to bring plenty of water and snacks, a tank full of gas, insect repellent, rain gear, sunblock, and seasonally appropriate attire.

(Questions about accessibility? Email us for more information about how we can meet your needs.)

The birds: This is a great trip for picking up Brown-headed Nuthatches, resident woodpecker species, and various southbound migrants. You’ll find the latest eBird records for the park here.

The food: There are a handful of local, post-field trip options, including McCalla’s El Comal Mexican Restaurant, just a short drive away on the north side of I-20. Since picnic tables are plentiful in the park, there are also plenty of places to enjoy an al fresco packed lunch.

Trip leaders: Susan Barrow (205-253-8667) and Matt Hunter (205-915-8186). For more information, email the Outreach Director.