Escape to the outdoors in the city of Guntersville, which acts as a gateway to the lake of the same name and the surrounding nature area. The city’s lakeside setting provides opportunities for sports, hiking trails and outdoor relaxation. Experience its slower pace of life and the quiet of its serene waters.
For insight into the history of the town, stop at the Guntersville Museum. Discover how the town was founded in 1785 by John Gunter and how the economy here boomed during the era of the railroad. The free museum displays hundreds of objects relating to the area and documents natural history, local art and archeological finds.
Bring your binoculars to spot a bald eagle on the lakeshore. After ecological efforts to boost its population, the national bird of America has returned to the area in strength. In Lake Guntersville State Park, choose from several hiking trails which vary in difficulty and length. Cyclists and walkers can also follow the paths running around the edge of the peninsula.
Enjoy laid-back pursuits within the park area. Play a round at the 18-hole Eagle’s Nest Golf Course, which has a scenic mountainside location. The park also offers horseback riding, boat rentals and places to fish. Annual fishing competitions attract keen anglers to the city, but the lake is also popular among amateurs.
Spend an evening watching a show at the Whole Backstage Theater, which hosts performances by a local troupe of the same name.
From Guntersville, it’s easy to reach other attractions in the nearby countryside by car. Hike through breathtaking terrain at Buck’s Pocket State Park. Nearby High Falls Park features waterfalls. Go underground at Cathedral Caverns State Park, a series of caves north of Guntersville city.
The best way to reach Guntersville is via Huntsville International Airport, which is just an hour’s drive away. Combine nature with urban comforts on a trip to this Southern city.
