Alabama's physical geography is diverse, featuring the Appalachian Mountains in the north, rolling hills in the central region, and coastal plains in the south. The state’s highest point is Cheaha Mountain, standing at 2,413 feet above sea level. Alabama is also home to several significant rivers, including the Tennessee, Alabama, and Tombigbee Rivers, which shape the state's landscape and contribute to its fertile valleys. The Gulf of Mexico borders Alabama’s southern tip, providing coastal access and supporting the state's fishing and tourism industries.
Explore physical map of Alabama state of United States showing geographical / physical features with rivers, landforms, mountains, plateau, peaks, lakes, etc.
Alabama Physical Features
Alabama’s physical features are diverse, ranging from the Appalachian Mountains in the north to the coastal plains in the south. This variety in landscape shapes the state’s natural environment, economy, and recreational activities. Covering an area of 52,420 square miles, Alabama is bordered by Tennessee to the north, Georgia to the east, Mississippi to the west, and the Gulf of Mexico to the south. The state’s geography includes mountains, rivers, valleys, forests, and coastal areas, each contributing uniquely to its physical and ecological characteristics.
Appalachian Mountains
The northern part of Alabama is dominated by the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. This region is characterized by rugged terrain, ridges, and valleys. The highest point in the state, Cheaha Mountain, stands at 2,413 feet above sea level and is part of the Talladega National Forest. This mountain range contributes to Alabama’s biodiversity, with rich forests and diverse wildlife. The area is popular for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and mountain biking.
Cumberland Plateau
Located just south of the Appalachian Mountains, the Cumberland Plateau features rolling hills and ridges. This region is known for its limestone formations, caves, and natural springs. The plateau is an important area for coal mining, which historically played a significant role in Alabama's economy. Additionally, the rich soils of the plateau support agriculture, particularly livestock farming.
Coastal Plain
Southern Alabama is part of the Gulf Coastal Plain, characterized by flat terrain, wetlands, and fertile soils. This region stretches from the central part of the state to the Gulf of Mexico. The coastal plain is vital for agriculture, producing crops like cotton, peanuts, and soybeans. The area is also home to the state's major rivers, such as the Alabama and Tombigbee Rivers, which flow into the Mobile River. The proximity to the Gulf of Mexico supports Alabama’s fishing industry and tourism, especially in cities like Gulf Shores and Mobile.
Rivers and Waterways
Alabama has an extensive river system, with more than 77,000 miles of rivers and streams. These waterways are crucial for transportation, recreation, and economic activities. The most prominent rivers in Alabama include:
Tennessee River: Flowing through the northern part of the state, the Tennessee River is Alabama’s longest river at 652 miles. It is a vital waterway for hydroelectric power generation, transportation, and recreation.
Alabama River: The Alabama River stretches 318 miles, formed by the confluence of the Coosa and Tallapoosa Rivers. It flows through central Alabama and is significant for navigation, agriculture, and industry.
Tombigbee River: The Tombigbee River runs for 200 miles through western Alabama, playing an essential role in commerce and transportation. It merges with the Alabama River to form the Mobile River, which flows into the Gulf of Mexico.
Valleys and Basins
Alabama’s valleys, such as the Tennessee Valley, play a key role in its geography and economy. The Tennessee Valley, located in the northern part of the state, is known for its fertile land and is an important agricultural region. The valley also benefits from the Tennessee River, which supports agriculture, industry, and recreation. Other notable valleys include the Coosa and Talladega valleys, which are part of the Appalachian foothills.
Gulf of Mexico Coastline
Alabama has a 60-mile stretch of coastline along the Gulf of Mexico, providing access to coastal resources and opportunities for tourism. The Gulf Coast is characterized by sandy beaches, barrier islands, and estuaries that support marine life and fisheries. The city of Mobile, located near the coast, is home to one of the largest ports in the United States, making the Gulf Coast an important hub for international trade.
Wetlands and Swamps
Alabama’s coastal plain includes extensive wetlands and swamps, particularly in the Mobile-Tensaw River Delta. This delta is one of the largest wetland ecosystems in the United States, covering over 250,000 acres. These wetlands are rich in biodiversity, providing habitats for numerous species of fish, birds, and mammals. The delta is also crucial for water filtration, flood control, and as a nursery for marine life.
Forests
Approximately 70% of Alabama’s land area is covered by forests, making it one of the most heavily forested states in the country. The state’s forests are predominantly composed of pine, oak, and hickory trees. These forests play an important role in Alabama’s timber industry and provide habitats for a wide range of wildlife. National forests, such as the Talladega National Forest and the Conecuh National Forest, are popular destinations for recreation and conservation.
Climate and Its Impact on Physical Features
Alabama has a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters. The climate varies slightly across the state due to its diverse physical features. In the northern mountainous regions, temperatures are cooler, while the southern coastal plain experiences warmer, more humid conditions. Alabama receives an average annual rainfall of about 55 inches, which supports its rivers, agriculture, and forests. However, the state is also prone to extreme weather events, including hurricanes along the Gulf Coast and occasional tornadoes in the inland areas.
Geology of Alabama
Alabama's geology is diverse, reflecting a rich history that spans more than 500 million years. The state’s geological formations range from ancient Precambrian rocks in the north to younger Cenozoic sediments along the Gulf Coast. The geological landscape of Alabama includes significant mineral resources, fossil deposits, and varied rock formations. Understanding Alabama’s geology is essential for grasping its natural resources, landforms, and the historical processes that have shaped the state.
Geological Provinces of Alabama
Alabama is divided into five major geological regions or provinces, each with its own distinct characteristics: the Appalachian Highlands, the Interior Low Plateaus, the Valley and Ridge, the Cumberland Plateau, and the Coastal Plain.
Appalachian Highlands
Located in the northeastern part of Alabama, the Appalachian Highlands contain some of the oldest rocks in the state, dating back to the Precambrian era (more than 1 billion years ago). This region is characterized by high ridges, deep valleys, and folded rock layers. The Appalachian Mountains in Alabama, including Cheaha Mountain—the state's highest point at 2,413 feet—are part of this province. The rocks here primarily consist of igneous and metamorphic formations, which were shaped by intense heat and pressure over millions of years.
Interior Low Plateaus
The Interior Low Plateaus, found in north-central Alabama, consist mainly of sedimentary rocks such as limestone and shale. These rocks date back to the Paleozoic era (about 500 to 250 million years ago) and contain rich deposits of fossils, particularly from marine environments that existed when much of Alabama was covered by shallow seas. The region is also known for its karst topography, which includes sinkholes, caves, and underground streams formed by the dissolution of limestone.
Valley and Ridge Province
The Valley and Ridge Province runs through the central and eastern parts of Alabama and is characterized by long, parallel ridges and valleys. These formations were created by the folding and faulting of sedimentary rock layers during the Appalachian mountain-building events. Limestone, sandstone, and shale dominate this region’s geology. The valleys are typically more fertile, while the ridges are composed of harder rock that is more resistant to erosion.
Cumberland Plateau
The Cumberland Plateau, which extends into northern Alabama, is part of the larger Appalachian Plateau. This region features rolling hills, ridges, and deep gorges. The rocks in this area are primarily sandstone, shale, and coal-bearing strata from the Pennsylvanian period (about 320 to 300 million years ago). Coal mining has been historically significant in the Cumberland Plateau, contributing to Alabama’s economy.
Coastal Plain
The Coastal Plain covers the southern half of Alabama and consists of younger sedimentary deposits from the Cretaceous, Tertiary, and Quaternary periods. These sediments were laid down as ancient seas retreated and advanced over millions of years. The Coastal Plain is made up of sands, clays, gravels, and limestone, and it is one of the most geologically active regions in the state due to its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico. The area is also known for its rich deposits of fossil fuels, including oil and natural gas.
Mineral Resources of Alabama
Alabama is rich in a variety of mineral resources that have played a significant role in its industrial development.
Coal
Coal is one of Alabama’s most important mineral resources, with significant deposits in the Cumberland Plateau region. The state’s coal is primarily bituminous, and it has been extensively mined since the 19th century. Historically, coal mining fueled Alabama's steel industry, particularly in Birmingham, which became known as the "Pittsburgh of the South."
Iron Ore
Alabama's rich iron ore deposits, found mainly in the Birmingham District, were essential to the development of the state's iron and steel industries. The region is known for its “Red Mountain” formation, where hematite iron ore was mined. This natural resource helped Birmingham grow into a major industrial center during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Limestone
Limestone is abundant throughout Alabama, particularly in the Valley and Ridge and Coastal Plain regions. Limestone is used in construction, agriculture (as a soil conditioner), and in the production of cement. The state's limestone formations also contain rich fossil deposits, offering insight into Alabama's ancient marine environments.
Oil and Natural Gas
The southern part of Alabama, particularly in the Coastal Plain, is home to significant oil and natural gas reserves. These fossil fuels were formed from organic material deposited in ancient seabeds during the Cretaceous and Tertiary periods. Today, Alabama is a notable producer of both oil and natural gas, contributing to the state’s economy and energy sector.
Paleontology and Fossils in Alabama
Alabama is renowned for its fossil record, which provides a glimpse into the state's ancient past. Fossils from marine environments are particularly common, as much of Alabama was once submerged under shallow seas.
Paleozoic Fossils
In northern Alabama, fossils from the Paleozoic era are abundant, including trilobites, brachiopods, and crinoids. These fossils are found in limestone and shale formations that formed when the region was part of a warm, shallow sea.
Mesozoic Fossils
The Coastal Plain contains many fossils from the Mesozoic era, particularly from the Cretaceous period. These fossils include remains of marine reptiles such as mosasaurs and plesiosaurs, as well as shark teeth and dinosaur fossils. The discovery of dinosaur fossils in southern Alabama has provided important insights into the types of species that roamed the region millions of years ago.
Cenozoic Fossils
Fossils from the Cenozoic era, including mammals, are also found in Alabama. These fossils provide evidence of the diverse life that existed in the region after the extinction of the dinosaurs. Fossilized remains of ancient horses, mastodons, and other mammals have been uncovered in the state.
Geological History and Formation
Alabama’s geological history is marked by several major events, including the formation of the Appalachian Mountains and the deposition of sedimentary layers during periods of ocean coverage.
Appalachian Mountain Formation
The Appalachian Mountains, which stretch into northern Alabama, were formed during the Paleozoic era by a series of tectonic collisions that folded and faulted the earth's crust. This process created the ridges and valleys that characterize much of Alabama’s northern landscape.
Marine Deposits
During the Mesozoic and Cenozoic periods, much of Alabama was covered by shallow seas. These seas deposited thick layers of sediment, including limestone, sandstone, and shale, which now form much of the state's bedrock. These marine deposits are rich in fossils and provide evidence of the ancient environments that once existed in Alabama.
Flora and Fauna of Alabama
Alabama is home to one of the most biologically diverse ecosystems in the United States, with a wide variety of plant and animal species inhabiting its forests, rivers, wetlands, and coastal areas. The state's unique geographic features, climate, and ecological zones contribute to its rich biodiversity. From towering pine forests to vibrant wildflowers and a variety of mammals, birds, reptiles, and fish, Alabama’s flora and fauna represent a complex and interconnected web of life. Protecting this diversity is crucial for maintaining Alabama’s natural heritage and ecosystems.
Flora of Alabama
Forests and Trees
Approximately 70% of Alabama is covered by forests, making it one of the most heavily forested states in the country. The dominant tree species include several types of pine, oak, hickory, and hardwood trees. The forests are categorized into different types depending on the region, such as the pine forests in the southern part of the state and mixed hardwood forests in the northern Appalachian foothills.
Loblolly Pine (Pinus taeda): One of the most common tree species in Alabama, the loblolly pine thrives in the state's warm, humid climate and sandy soils. It is an essential timber species, widely used for pulpwood, construction, and paper products.
Longleaf Pine (Pinus palustris): Once covering over 90 million acres across the southeastern U.S., longleaf pine forests have been significantly reduced but are now part of conservation efforts in Alabama. These forests support unique ecosystems and are home to endangered species like the red-cockaded woodpecker.
Southern Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora): Known for its large, fragrant white flowers, the Southern magnolia is an iconic species in Alabama's forests. This evergreen tree is a staple in the state’s subtropical forests and is often used as an ornamental tree in landscapes.
Wildflowers and Plants
Alabama is home to more than 3,000 species of vascular plants, including numerous wildflowers that bloom throughout the year. The state's wildflower diversity is particularly abundant in the coastal plain and Appalachian regions.
Alabama Gladecress (Leavenworthia alabamica): This rare wildflower is native to the limestone glades of northern Alabama. It is a small, delicate plant that blooms in early spring, producing bright yellow flowers.
Azaleas (Rhododendron spp.): Alabama is known for its native azalea species, such as the Piedmont azalea and the Alabama azalea. These beautiful flowering shrubs thrive in the state’s woodlands, adding vibrant pink, orange, and white colors to the landscape in spring and summer.
Pitcher Plants (Sarracenia spp.): Found in the bogs and wetlands of southern Alabama, pitcher plants are carnivorous plants that trap insects in their tube-like leaves. The Mobile-Tensaw River Delta is home to several species of these fascinating plants, which contribute to the area’s biodiversity.
Fauna of Alabama
Mammals
Alabama is home to over 60 species of mammals, ranging from large animals like white-tailed deer to smaller species such as bats and rodents. The diverse ecosystems, from forests to wetlands, provide habitats for these animals.
White-Tailed Deer (Odocoileus virginianus): The white-tailed deer is the most common large mammal in Alabama, found throughout the state in forests, fields, and near water sources. It plays an essential role in the state’s hunting culture and ecosystem management.
Black Bear (Ursus americanus): Black bears are found in Alabama's mountainous and forested regions, particularly in the northeastern and southwestern parts of the state. While not as common as in other states, Alabama’s black bear population is gradually increasing due to conservation efforts.
Eastern Gray Squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis): One of the most common small mammals in Alabama, the eastern gray squirrel inhabits the state's forests and urban areas. Its adaptability to different environments has made it a familiar sight across Alabama.
Birds
With over 420 bird species recorded in the state, Alabama is a birdwatcher’s paradise. The diverse habitats, including forests, rivers, lakes, and coastal regions, attract both resident and migratory birds.
Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis): The northern cardinal, known for its bright red plumage, is one of Alabama’s most recognizable birds. It can be found year-round in woodlands, gardens, and suburban areas.
Red-Cockaded Woodpecker (Picoides borealis): This endangered species is native to the longleaf pine forests of Alabama. Conservation efforts are in place to protect its habitat and prevent further population decline.
Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus): Once endangered, bald eagles have made a remarkable recovery in Alabama, particularly around large lakes and rivers. These majestic birds of prey are often seen nesting near water, hunting for fish.
Reptiles and Amphibians
Alabama is known for its rich diversity of reptiles and amphibians, with more than 150 species recorded, including alligators, turtles, snakes, frogs, and salamanders.
American Alligator (Alligator mississippiensis): Found primarily in southern Alabama’s wetlands and rivers, the American alligator is the largest reptile in the state. It plays an important role in maintaining the ecological balance of wetland environments.
Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina): The eastern box turtle is a common sight in Alabama’s forests and woodlands. Known for its domed shell and slow movement, this species is often found in moist, leafy environments.
Green Tree Frog (Hyla cinerea): This small, bright green frog is commonly found in Alabama's wetlands and near bodies of water. It is the state amphibian of Alabama, known for its distinctive call during the warm months.
Fish
Alabama's rivers, lakes, and coastal waters are home to a diverse range of fish species, making the state a popular destination for both freshwater and saltwater fishing.
Largemouth Bass (Micropterus salmoides): The largemouth bass is one of the most sought-after game fish in Alabama’s freshwater lakes and rivers. Known for its aggressive behavior and size, it is a favorite among anglers.
Alabama Sturgeon (Scaphirhynchus suttkusi): The Alabama sturgeon is a critically endangered species native to the rivers of Alabama, particularly the Mobile River Basin. Conservation efforts are ongoing to protect this rare fish from extinction.
Endangered Species
Alabama is home to several species that are listed as endangered or threatened, primarily due to habitat loss, pollution, and environmental changes.
Red Hills Salamander (Phaeognathus hubrichti): Endemic to Alabama, the Red Hills salamander is a rare species found only in a small region of the state. It is considered threatened due to habitat destruction from logging and development.
Alabama Beach Mouse (Peromyscus polionotus ammobates): This small rodent lives in the dunes along Alabama’s Gulf Coast. It is listed as endangered, with its population threatened by coastal development and natural disasters.
Conservation Efforts
Alabama’s rich biodiversity has led to numerous conservation efforts to protect its unique flora and fauna. Several state and federal organizations, such as the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, work to preserve habitats, manage wildlife populations, and protect endangered species.
Conservation areas such as the Mobile-Tensaw River Delta, Little River Canyon, and Bankhead National Forest provide essential habitats for wildlife and offer protected spaces for plant species to thrive. Efforts to restore longleaf pine forests and protect wetlands are key to maintaining Alabama’s ecological balance.
Climate of Alabama
Alabama has a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot summers, mild winters, and abundant rainfall. This climate is influenced by the state's proximity to the Gulf of Mexico, which plays a significant role in its weather patterns. Alabama experiences a range of climatic conditions across different regions, from the cooler mountainous areas in the north to the warmer, coastal areas in the south. The state’s weather includes seasonal variations, and it is prone to extreme weather events such as thunderstorms, hurricanes, and tornadoes.
Temperature
Average Temperature: Alabama’s average annual temperature is approximately 64°F (18°C). However, this varies across the state depending on geographic location and elevation.
Summer
Summers in Alabama are typically hot and humid. The southern parts of the state, particularly near the Gulf Coast, experience the warmest temperatures. From June through August, daytime highs often reach between 88°F and 94°F (31°C to 34°C), with high humidity making it feel even warmer. The hottest month is generally July. Nighttime lows during the summer remain mild, usually staying above 70°F (21°C).
Winter
Winters in Alabama are generally mild, though northern parts of the state, particularly in the Appalachian foothills, can experience colder temperatures. Average daytime highs in winter range from 50°F to 60°F (10°C to 16°C), while nighttime lows can drop to the upper 30s°F (3°C to 5°C). Freezing temperatures are more common in the northern part of the state, but they rarely last long. Snowfall is relatively rare, with the northern regions occasionally receiving light snow, while the southern parts of Alabama almost never experience snow.
Regional Temperature Variation
The Appalachian Mountains in the north cause regional differences in Alabama’s climate. Higher elevations in this area result in cooler temperatures compared to the lower regions of the state. In contrast, the southern coastal areas, particularly near Mobile, experience warmer temperatures throughout the year, largely due to the moderating effects of the Gulf of Mexico.
Precipitation
Alabama is one of the wettest states in the United States, receiving an average of 55 inches (1,400 mm) of rainfall annually. The rainfall is well-distributed throughout the year, but the state tends to receive more rain during the spring and summer months.
Spring and Summer Rainfall
Spring and summer are the wettest seasons in Alabama, with frequent thunderstorms, particularly in the afternoon and evening. These thunderstorms are often associated with heavy rainfall, lightning, and occasional hail. Rainfall is heaviest in the southern part of the state, where the proximity to the Gulf of Mexico leads to higher humidity and more moisture in the atmosphere. The Mobile area receives the highest annual rainfall, averaging around 67 inches (1,700 mm) per year.
Winter Rainfall
Rainfall during the winter months tends to be lighter and less frequent, though Alabama can experience long-duration rain events due to passing frontal systems. Southern Alabama may experience more winter rain than the northern parts, though the difference is usually not significant.
Snowfall
Snow is rare in Alabama, particularly in the southern part of the state. Northern Alabama, particularly in the Appalachian foothills, may see occasional snowfall, but it is typically light and does not accumulate for long periods. On average, the northern parts of Alabama receive around 1 inch (2.5 cm) of snow per year.
Humidity
Alabama has high humidity levels, particularly during the summer months. The humidity is highest in the coastal regions due to the influence of the Gulf of Mexico. In July and August, the average relative humidity can reach around 75%, making the already warm temperatures feel hotter. Humidity levels are slightly lower in the winter months, but even then, they tend to remain above 60% in most parts of the state.
Severe Weather
Alabama is prone to various types of severe weather, including thunderstorms, hurricanes, and tornadoes. These extreme weather events have a significant impact on the state, especially during certain seasons.
Thunderstorms
Thunderstorms are common in Alabama, especially during the spring and summer months. These storms often occur in the afternoon and can bring heavy rain, strong winds, hail, and lightning. Alabama averages about 60-70 thunderstorms per year. The state’s high humidity levels contribute to the frequency and intensity of these storms.
Tornadoes
Alabama is located in what is known as "Dixie Alley," a region in the southeastern United States that is particularly vulnerable to tornadoes. Tornado season typically peaks during the spring months of March through May, although tornadoes can occur at any time of the year. Alabama averages around 44 tornadoes annually, with some of these being extremely destructive. The state has experienced several notable tornado outbreaks, including the 2011 Super Outbreak, which caused widespread devastation across northern Alabama.
Hurricanes
Due to its location along the Gulf Coast, southern Alabama is vulnerable to hurricanes and tropical storms. Hurricane season lasts from June to November, with the peak occurring from August to October. Hurricanes bring high winds, storm surges, and heavy rainfall, which can lead to flooding. Some of the most destructive hurricanes in Alabama’s history include Hurricane Ivan in 2004 and Hurricane Katrina in 2005. The coastal cities, particularly Mobile and Gulf Shores, are most at risk during hurricane season.
Climate Zones in Alabama
Alabama can be divided into different climate zones based on its geographical features and variations in temperature, precipitation, and elevation.
Northern Alabama (Appalachian Region)
The northern part of the state, which includes the Appalachian foothills, has a slightly cooler climate due to higher elevations. This region experiences colder winters, with occasional snowfall, and milder summers compared to the rest of the state. Rainfall is abundant, especially in the spring, contributing to the region's lush vegetation.
Central Alabama
Central Alabama experiences typical humid subtropical conditions, with hot, humid summers and mild winters. This region is particularly prone to thunderstorms in the summer and tornadoes during the spring months. The central part of the state receives moderate rainfall throughout the year.
Southern Alabama (Coastal Plain)
Southern Alabama, including the Gulf Coast, has the warmest and most humid climate in the state. Summers are long, hot, and humid, while winters are mild. The coastal plain receives the most rainfall, with the Gulf Coast experiencing the highest amounts. This region is also most vulnerable to hurricanes and tropical storms during the late summer and fall.
Climate Change and Its Impact on Alabama
Like many other regions, Alabama is experiencing the effects of climate change. Rising temperatures, changing precipitation patterns, and more frequent extreme weather events are impacting the state.
Temperature Increases: Average temperatures in Alabama have been gradually increasing, leading to more intense summer heat waves. This can affect agriculture, water resources, and public health, particularly in urban areas.
More Intense Storms: As global temperatures rise, Alabama may experience more frequent and intense storms, including hurricanes and severe thunderstorms. This increases the risk of flooding and damage to infrastructure, especially in coastal areas.
Rising Sea Levels: Along the Gulf Coast, rising sea levels are a concern, particularly for coastal communities. Higher sea levels increase the risk of storm surges during hurricanes and contribute to coastal erosion.
List of Rivers in Alabama
River Name
Length (Miles)
Source
Key Cities Along the River
Confluence / Destination
Key Features / Uses
Alabama River
318
Confluence of Coosa and Tallapoosa Rivers
Montgomery, Selma
Mobile River
Navigation, agriculture, recreation
Tennessee River
652
Holston and French Broad Rivers (Tennessee)
Huntsville, Decatur, Florence
Ohio River (via Mississippi River)
Hydroelectric power, industry, recreation
Tombigbee River
200
Northeast Mississippi
Demopolis, Tuscaloosa (via Black Warrior River)
Mobile River
Navigation, commerce, irrigation
Coosa River
280
Blue Ridge Mountains (Georgia)
Gadsden, Wetumpka
Alabama River
Hydroelectric power, recreation
Black Warrior River
178
Confluence of Mulberry and Locust Forks
Tuscaloosa
Tombigbee River
Industry, water supply, navigation
Mobile River
45
Confluence of Alabama and Tombigbee Rivers
Mobile
Gulf of Mexico (via Mobile Bay)
International trade, shipping
Chattahoochee River
430
Blue Ridge Mountains (Georgia)
Eufaula, Phenix City
Apalachicola River (Florida)
Recreation, water supply, power generation
Cahaba River
194
Jefferson County, Alabama
West Blocton, Selma
Alabama River
Recreation, biodiversity
Pea River
154
Barbour County, Alabama
Elba, Geneva
Choctawhatchee River
Irrigation, local recreation
Choctawhatchee River
141
Barbour County, Alabama
Geneva
Gulf of Mexico
Flood control, agriculture
Flint River
344
Lincoln County, Tennessee
Huntsville
Tennessee River
Recreation, water supply
Little River
23
Lookout Mountain
Fort Payne
Coosa River
Recreation, biodiversity
List of Mountains in Alabama
Mountain Name
Elevation (Feet)
Location
Mountain Range
Key Features / Uses
Cheaha Mountain
2,413
Cleburne County
Talladega Mountains (Appalachians)
Highest point in Alabama, part of Cheaha State Park
Lookout Mountain
2,389
DeKalb County
Cumberland Plateau
Scenic views, Little River Canyon National Preserve
Montgomery Mountain
2,206
Cleburne County
Talladega Mountains (Appalachians)
Part of the Talladega National Forest
Hernando de Soto Mountain
1,759
DeKalb County
Lookout Mountain Range
Historical significance, part of DeSoto State Park
Oakey Mountain
1,722
Cleburne County
Talladega Mountains (Appalachians)
Forested region, hiking trails
Flagg Mountain
1,152
Coosa County
Talladega Mountains (Appalachians)
Southernmost peak of the Appalachian Mountains
Double Oak Mountain
1,097
Shelby County
Cahaba Ridge
Part of Oak Mountain State Park, hiking and camping
Sand Mountain
1,563
DeKalb County
Cumberland Plateau
Agriculture, scenic views, rural communities
Ruffner Mountain
1,080
Jefferson County
Ridge-and-Valley Appalachians
Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve, historical mining area
Bald Rock Mountain
1,558
Cleburne County
Talladega Mountains (Appalachians)
Scenic overlook, hiking, part of Cheaha State Park
List of Plateaus in Alabama
Plateau Name
Elevation (Feet)
Location
Key Features / Uses
Cumberland Plateau
1,800 - 2,000
Northern Alabama (DeKalb, Jackson, and Marshall Counties)
Known for its coal deposits, scenic valleys, and rich biodiversity; includes Sand Mountain
Appalachian Plateau
1,500 - 1,800
Northeastern Alabama
Characterized by rugged terrain and forested ridges, important for coal mining and natural gas extraction
Lookout Mountain Plateau
1,600 - 2,000
Extends across DeKalb County in Alabama
Features Lookout Mountain, Little River Canyon, and DeSoto State Park; popular for hiking and outdoor activities
Highland Rim
800 - 1,000
Northwestern Alabama (Lauderdale and Colbert Counties)
Part of the Interior Low Plateaus, known for fertile soil, agricultural activities, and limestone formations
Shaded Valley Plateau
1,500 - 1,700
Northeastern Alabama
Characterized by deep gorges, karst topography, and forested areas; important for wildlife conservation
