Alabama Road Trip with Kids: Caves, Canyons & Curiosity (Day 5)
Welcome to Day 5: The North Alabama Nature Region
If you’re looking for things to do in North Alabama with kids, Day 5 of our North Alabama road trip blends ancient history, breathtaking nature, and the comfort of coming home. From exploring the prehistoric shelters at Russell Cave National Monument to hiking the rim of Little River Canyon, this itinerary is full of hands-on learning and quiet awe. It’s the kind of day where kids can throw spears like early hunters, stand on the edge of God’s handiwork, and end the night wrapped in a blanket under the stars.
If your kids are reading Ethan & Oliver Adventures: The Great Alabama Road Trip, Day 5 captures the stillness of cave shadows, the roar of river falls, and the joy of returning to Grandmomma & Granddaddy’s front porch. It’s a day where history meets home—and the adventure pauses just long enough to let wisdom sink in.
Itinerary Overview
Route: Bridgeport to Fort Payne, Alabama
Total Drive Time: ~1 hour 15 minutes
Activity Time: ~5–6 hours before dinner
Start Time: 9:00 AM
Stop 1: Russell Cave National Monument
What to Expect:
- A real archaeological site where Native Americans lived for over 10,000 years
- Shaded walking trail to a giant cave opening once used as a shelter
- Educational displays about tools, pottery, and daily life
- Hands-on activity: spear throwing with an atlatl (when rangers are present)
Educational Tie-In:
Russell Cave offers a tangible connection to prehistoric life in Alabama. Kids can see how Native peoples used natural resources to survive and thrive—perfect for tying into history, anthropology, or early civilizations studies.
Notebook Prompt:
If you lived in a cave thousands of years ago, what would your day look like? How would you gather food or stay warm?
Faith Tie-In:
Psalm 90:1 — “Lord, you have been our dwelling place throughout all generations.”
Kid-Friendly Tip:
Let kids take their own nature pictures along the short boardwalk—it helps them slow down and really see the world around them.
Stop 2: Little River Canyon National Preserve
What to Expect:
- A mountaintop river carving through sandstone cliffs
- Stunning overlooks along the scenic drive (don’t miss Little River Falls!)
- Short hikes and picnic spots with epic views
- Wildlife sightings: hawks, deer, turtles, and more
Why We Loved It:
It’s wild and peaceful at the same time—untouched nature, yet totally accessible for families.
Educational Tie-In:
This stop ties into geology, ecosystems, erosion, and environmental science. It’s also a beautiful opportunity to talk about stewardship of God’s creation.
Notebook Prompt:
What does this canyon tell you about the power and creativity of God?
Pro Tip:
Bring snacks, water, and jackets—weather can shift quickly, especially in the fall.
Evening Reset: Grandmomma & Granddaddy’s House
What to Expect:
- Southern hospitality, second helpings, and stories that fill more than your plate
- The boys dropped their shoes at the door and ran inside
- A warm meal already simmering on the stove
- Granddaddy strumming his guitar on the porch
Memory Maker:
After supper, the family bundled up in blankets and sat outside, listening to Granddaddy tell stories about growing up in Alabama—and how the stars used to guide him home through the woods.
Notebook Prompt:
What’s something you learned from someone older than you today?
Faith Tie-In:
Proverbs 17:6 — “Children’s children are a crown to the aged, and parents are the pride of their children.”
Check out our family recipe that Ethan and Oliver devoured after we arrived at the grandparents house:
What We Learned
- Nature holds stories just as powerful as any museum
- Native peoples lived with resourcefulness, creativity, and deep respect for the land
- Family isn’t just where the journey ends—it’s where wisdom begins
Read the Story Version
Day 5 of Ethan & Oliver Adventures: The Great Alabama Road Trip brings this day to life—with spear-throwing attempts, canyon echoes, and a porch-night full of laughter and stars.
Plan It Yourself:
🗺 View our full Alabama route on Roadtrippers
We are not affiliated with any of the locations mentioned. All opinions are our own.
Up Next
Day 6: Museums, Marches & a Walk Across History in Montgomery
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