Rotary Trail Park is a vibrant urban green space in Birmingham, Alabama, offering a scenic walking trail along the city’s historic railroad corridor with art installations and river views.
Rotary Trail Park is a 1.5-mile pedestrian greenway located in downtown Birmingham, Alabama, transforming a former rail corridor into an inviting public park. The trail stretches along the Jones Valley, tracing the original path of the Louisville & Nashville Railroad atop an elevated greenway that runs adjacent to the historic Vulcan statue overlook. Designed as a connector between key neighborhoods and cultural destinations, the park features wide walkways, contemporary sculpture pieces, benches, and lighting, creating a safe and attractive environment for walkers, joggers, and cyclists. The area incorporates landscaped gardens highlighting native plants and incorporates stormwater management systems to enhance ecology in an urban setting. Visitors enjoy sights of the nearby Railroad Park and the scenic views of downtown Birmingham's skyline. As a community-driven project initiated by the Rotary Club of Birmingham, the park supports urban revitalization and healthy living by providing accessible outdoor recreation space. The trail also hosts seasonal events and art walks, fostering engagement with cultural and environmental education. Although relatively small compared to large nature preserves, Rotary Trail Park offers residents and visitors an easily accessible, peaceful retreat with vibrant city views and enhanced outdoor amenities.
Pedestrian greenway located along a historic rail line corridor
Public art installations and sculptures throughout the park
Views of downtown Birmingham and the Vulcan statue nearby
Native plant gardens and eco-friendly stormwater features
The trail runs atop a former railroad embankment, offering elevated views of the city and allowing safe pedestrian and bicycle passage separated from traffic.
Rotary Trail features public art displays commissioned from local artists, adding cultural value and visual interest along the walking path.
Landscaped gardens featuring Alabama native plants promote local ecology and create colorful seasonal displays, contributing to urban biodiversity.