Guided Wetumpka Crater Hike

Step into one of Wetumpka’s most fascinating landscapes on this guided hike along the southern collapsed rim of the Wetumpka Impact Crater.

Participants will check in and depart from the Wetumpka Civic Center (410 S. Main Street), where shuttle transportation will take guests to the private hike location.

Shuttle Schedule:

• Shuttles begin loading at 8:00 AM

• Last shuttle departs at 8:45 AM

• Hike begins promptly at 9:00 AM

  
  

We will kick off the experience with an invocation from Pastor Jonathan Yarboro as we pause to appreciate the remarkable natural beauty surrounding us.

Led by an expert trail guide and supported by Auburn Geosciences graduate students serving as scientific interpreters, this entry-level hike offers a rare window into a portion of the approximately 30 million square feet of impact structure that is almost entirely privately owned and seldom accessible to the public.

This specific area also played a role in the 2009 drilling expedition led by Dr. David King, adding important scientific context to the experience.

Trail Overview

• Distance: 1.10 miles

• Elevation Gain: Approximately 49 feet

• Route Type: Loop

• Estimated Duration: About 1 hour and 30 minutes
  

This is considered an entry-level hike with mostly flat terrain, though participants should be prepared for:

• Several moderate inclines and declines

• Uneven natural ground

• Wooded and shaded conditions

• Hiking alongside streams and creeks

• One small supported creek crossing bridge.

  
  

Important Participation Notes

• Participants must be 16 years or older

• Those under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian

• This hike takes place on private property, and participants must remain with the group

• Trail conditions may vary depending on recent weather

• The hike will proceed rain or shine unless conditions are deemed unsafe

  
  

What to Wear and Bring

Please come prepared for outdoor conditions:

• Closed-toe hiking shoes (required)

• Weather-appropriate layered clothing

• Hiking stick or trekking pole (recommended)

• Water bottle

• Hat and sunglasses

• Sunscreen and insect repellent