People in Alabama don’t have to travel far to find a great hiking spot. Trails abound at parks and nature preserves throughout the state — just pull on your boots, find a trailhead and follow the blazes.

Here are five of our favorite places to hike in the Birmingham metro area, especially in late spring. And if you need some extra motivation, Saturday, April 22, is national Celebrate Trails Day. Take a hike!

RUFFNER MOUNTAIN NATURE PRESERVE

Where: 1214 81st St. South, Birmingham.