Conecuh National Forest Forest Road 337 Turkey Creek Sand Hills Circuit

Forest Road 337 plunges into the heart of Conecuh’s sand hills, where sugar-white sand runs deeper than your sidewalls and longleaf pines tower overhead like cathedral spires. This 18-mile loop follows Turkey Creek through some of Alabama’s last intact longleaf ecosystem, with the creek itself meandering lazily through cypress swamps and hardwood bottoms. The notorious “Sugar Bowl” – a quarter-mile stretch of axle-deep sand – separates casual visitors from serious sand runners, while Turkey Creek’s seven crossings range from ankle-deep riffles to hood-deep pools during spring floods.

Moderate difficulty that becomes expert-level after heavy rains when the sand turns to quicksand soup. Air down to 15 psi minimum, pack a shovel and recovery boards, and bring more water than you think you need. Summer heat makes this brutal; fall and winter offer the best conditions when creek levels stabilize and temperatures drop. No permits required, but check with the Andalusia Ranger Station for current conditions. Camp anywhere along the creek for some of the most peaceful nights you’ll find in Alabama’s backcountry.