Hike to Stephens Gap

My favorite place!

Stephen’s Gap is beautiful and unique in that it has two entrances. My now-husband and I rappelled the top entrance and then he proposed to me on the pedestal after so this place is near and dear to my heart. A few years later, we rappelled the key hole. Amazing. You can even venture further from the bottom if you choose, but be careful. Wear a helmet. Be sure to get a permit before you go and remember to leave no trace! Keep it beautiful!

5.0

It’s closed!

This trial has been closed until further notice!

1.0

Wow! An amazing hidden treasure!

I finally made the trip to see this incredible hidden gem after first finding out about it through the Outbound. Wow, was I speechless. This hidden jewel in the southeast (Alabama, of all places) is a must see for any adventure photographer. But I hope that this wonderful place will continue to stay hidden and preserved for years to come so that it won't be over run by tourist. The people who work with you in getting the permit to explore this site were extremely helpful. The best advice I received is the best light is at 11:00 AM. Believe me, they weren't lying. Wow!

5.0

Beautiful, but be careful!

This place is absolutely beautiful. We got a permit and signed waivers a few days in advance. We were the only people there on a week day. We had the place all to ourselves and it was magical. We went after a week of heavy rain which including the night before our arrival. This made the trail very slippery. What would typically be an easy hike, was more difficult because of the slippery conditions. The water was rushing through the cave today and literally every inch of the place was soaking wet. I loved seeing it this way! Additionally, I wouldn't bring children.

5.0

Epic Cave

Stephens Gap cave was my first caving experience in Alabama and it was simply incredible. The hike to the entrance of the cave was a decent workout considering the short distance that it covered. The steep path down into the cave is super slippery and my friend actually fell pretty hard, but was lucky to not get hurt. Be sure to wear good shoes (hiking boots are best) and just take each step cautiously. It helps to have free hands too. Once down at the bottom of the cave, it is possible to take in the scale of the large room. The roof towers about 40-50 feet overhead and the waterfall plunges about 70 feet down to a lower section of the cavern below. The light is best around mid-day, and you can get some incredible sun-rays which Edward Day did a great job of capturing in this adventure. There is also a campsite near the mouth of the cave which looked spacious enough for a 2-3 person tent. Although I completely skipped over the hike to the cave, it is beautiful in its own right too. You hike up a narrow valley that is full of shade and wildflowers in the summer. Definitely enjoyed this adventure and I am already planning on coming back with more friends.

5.0