Touring the hills of Northern Alabama - Alabama's Mountain Lakes Region - Brief Article

Travel America, Sept, 2000 by John Handley

Some of the region's natural beauty is underground. DeSoto Caverns Park in Childersburg was named for Hernando DeSoto, the Spanish explorer who visited the site in 1540. The 80-acre park surrounds the historic onyx marble caverns, which were occupied by Indians as early as 1000 B.C. Guided tours are available. Russell Cave near Bridgeport is the state's only national monument.

Shoppers will be in heaven at the factory outlet center in Boaz, where more than 140 outlet shops feature many brand-name and designer labels at big discounts. Another must stop is the unique Unclaimed Baggage Center in Scottsboro, where items from lost airline luggage can be picked up at bargain prices. Flea markets and antiques shops also flourish in the area.

For more information, contact the Alabama Mountain Lakes Association (TravelAmerica Magazine), P.O. Box 1075, Mooresville, AL 35649; (800) 648-5381.