Walls of Jericho

Just some of the words used to describe the Walls of Jericho. Not the "Walls" in the biblical sense but in hiking lore.

Straddling the Alabama-Tennessee state line, this 21,453-acre property was in private hands for many years, with hikers hearing only stories about the wonders within its boundaries. Recently through the efforts of the Nature Conservancy and Alabama's Forever Wild Program, the Walls were reopened to the public and the legends are true – the hiking is spectacular, and according to Forever Wild, on a nice day over 300 people will visit the Walls.

The Walls of Jericho is a water spectacular. The hike into the limestone gorge includes fording the clear mountain waters of Hurricane Creek and culminates as Turkey Creek forms a beautiful cascade into "The Bowl" where it tumbles into an icy blue pool. Appropriately enough, baptisms were once held here. The water funnels through the rocks and shoots out in plumes down the limestone canyon walls in a spectacular show.

The main reason the Walls was protected is not only because of great hiking, but also for the wildlife found here in the Upper Paint Rock River watershed. Over 100 species of fish and 45 species of mussels, many on the endangered list, can be found here. And the Walls of Jericho is a paradise for birders, wildflower watchers and photographers.

Remember that this is a strenuous hike. It is easy into the gorge but a tough out. (You have to hike back uphill.) And a word about safety: The Walls are prone to flash flooding! Don’t venture out during or after heavy rain.

Bring plenty of water, lunch and snacks. It’s a FULL day hike but so worth it!