Blackwell Swamp in Wheeler NWR, AL

Blackwell Swamp is fairly close to the Beaverdam Boardwalk; just a little east of it. Sometimes, it's hard to believe this is part of the same river system that flows past Guntersville. Here's a couple of photos: First of the trail around the swamp, and also of some Waterlilies among the Blackgum trees.

Directions:

If you're coming from Huntsville, exit to the right from I-565 at the Wall-Triana exit in Madison. Then turn left on to U.S. Highway 20; it's not far from the interstate exit. Hwy 20 turns into the I-565 service road on the north side. Continue about two miles and turn left onto County line road. Go another 5 1/2 miles and turn left just past a large old white house with a barn. After some curves, you'll go by two mobile homes on the left side; you can either go straight here and head towards the south end of Blackwell Swamp, or take a hard left just past the second mobile home towards the northern end. The trail does make a complete loop eventually, but it can be a mess if it's been rainy!

If you're coming from Decatur, then exit at the Greenbriar exit off I-565. Turn left to cross over the interstate, then turn right onto the service road (it's two-way). You'll then come to County Line road in about 3 1/2 to 4 miles; turn right and follow the rest of the directions above.

Here is a map also: