“Summers had a logic all their own and they always brought something out in me. Summer was supposed to be about freedom and youth and no school and possibilities and adventure and exploration. Summer was a book of hope.” ― Benjamin Alire Sáenz, Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe

With plenty of warm weather, summer is an ideal time to explore the natural world that surrounds us. Northern Alabama is home to beautiful forests, parks, trails, and landmarks that inspire our sense of adventure. This week we share a few of those natural places and encourage all of our readers to get out into nature this summer.

Wichahpi Commemorative Stone Wall + the “Stone Talker”

Land Trust of North Alabama

Florence Indian Mound

Dismals Canyon

The Natchez Trace

Huntsville Botanical Garden

Cathedral Caverns State Park

McFarland Park

Noccalula Falls

Learn how to help protect our natural spaces with the National Park Foundation and the National Parks Conservation Association.

@ Alabama Chanin

This week The Factory Café is hosting two workshops to help you expand your knowledge and skill in the kitchen. Part two in a series of three Canning Workshops is Tuesday and on Thursday our in-house chef Melissa teaches you the fundamentals of New York-style pizza with the Artisan Pizza Workshop. Find all the details and enroll for these workshops on The Factory’s Events page.