Audubon's Dauphin Island Sancutuary is 164 acres set aside for neotropical migrants- birds making the long trip across the Gulf of Mexico. Once in the pine and hardwood forest this small preserve seems a world away, and offers a great hiking experience on a barrier island.
There is a trail map posted at the parking area. From there trails lead in several directions with most forming loop hikes through pine and palmetto and around a pond and swamp. Hiking straight through breaks from the forest onto the sugar white sand beaches of the Gulf.
I had no problem eating up a couple of hours walking the beach and doing the loop hikes. It was spring and flowers were in bloom and of course that balmy gulf air filtered through the forest. If you are in a hurry you can knock this one out in short order, but why? This is the South so enjoy it!
Directions:
From I-10 Exits 4,13,15 and 22 will get you headed towards Dauphin Island. These Exits are just west of Mobile, AL.
Exit 4, Grand Bay, AL. Follow the signs for Dauphin Island and the ferry, Highway 188. This will take you through Bayou La Batre, Coden(location of a great seafood diner) intersecting with Highway 193 which will take you over the bay to Dauphin Island.
Exit 22 Dauphin Island Parkway. Follow the signs that will lead Highway 163 into Highway 193 and the causway over to Dauphin Island. (On this route you will NOT pass through Bayou La Batre nor Coden).
Once on the island Highway 193 inersects the main east-west island road. Turn east(left) and watch for the Refuge sign to your right and the narrow drive leading to the parking area. If you reach the ferry landing and Coast Guard Station you have passed it.
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