We share the woods with other users. If we want respect from them, it is important that we show them the same. Hunting season may be threatening, especially in the first few days when the woods sounds like a firing range. Use caution and common sense when hiking during these times. Most importantly, wear hunter orange, you can obtain cheap vests and hats. The other alternative is to hike in areas protected from hunting, at least during the beginning of deer season.

Hunting is not allowed in Oak Mountain. Hunting is only allowed in the Sipsey on a couple days a year and I believe the same restrictions apply the Cheaha Wilderness. Many of the trails also exist in Wildlife Management Areas. These areas allow greatly restricted hunting, my understanding is that they have designated hunting days. You might be wise to call the forest service office for the district you are hiking in to find out when these are.

Although this is the hunting season for 1999-2000, it should be similar most years.  I'll try to check and make sure that this is true. This information is from Pathways, a publication of the National Forests in Alabama. Deer season is the most worrisome because large caliber rifles may be used, for turkey or small game only 22's or 10 gage shot guns may be used.

Deer: In all the National Forests gun hunting is allowed from November 20th through January 31st. The use of dogs is allowed through January 15th. Bow and spear hunting is also allowed through the 31st.

Turkey: Turkey hunting is allowed basically from March 20th through April 30th.

Small Game: Small game (quail, rabbit, squirrel, raccon, and opossum) hunting is allowed from October 1st (depending on the game) through February 29th.