Gulf State Park has announced the temporary closure of three trails on the Hugh Branyon Backcountry Trail to conduct a prescribed burn aimed at enhancing the park's ecosystem. The affected trails are Twin Bridges Trail, Rattlesnake Ridge Trail, and Hidden Lake Trail. These closures are necessary to ensure the safety of visitors and allow forestry teams to perform the burn efficiently.

The prescribed burn will take place on Friday, April 11, 2025 (weather permitting).

In addition to the Backcountry Trail closures, the multi-use path between the Orange Beach Sportsplex and West Oakridge Drive will be closed while the burn is active. The City of Orange Beach is anticipating closing the path at 9am on Friday morning.

Prescribed burns are controlled fires set intentionally to manage and improve natural habitats. At Gulf State Park, these burns play a crucial role in maintaining the health of the Pitcher Plant Bog. The fires help clear fast-growing shrubs and invasive plants, providing the sunlight that pitcher plants and other species like sundews and orchids need to thrive. Additionally, the burns promote biodiversity by creating a balanced environment where delicate plants and animals can flourish.

The gulf region of Alabama is home to one of the most famous pitcher plants, Sarracenia. These carnivorous plants capture insects and other small animals to get necessary nutrients. They do this using various techniques such as sticky traps, bladder traps, and pitfall traps, giving them an advantage in the low-nutrient wetlands they inhabit.

The Alabama Forestry Commission will conduct the prescribed burn in collaboration with the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources’ State Parks Division. Efforts will be made to ensure proper smoke management and minimize the impact on park guests. Visitors are advised to plan their activities accordingly and respect all trail closures during this period.

For more information about the benefits of prescribed fire and updates on trail conditions, visit the official Gulf State Park website or contact the park's administration at 251-948-7275.