The Great Outdoors
Adventure Center now open at
Russell Crossroads

Residents and visitors alike come to Russell Lands On Lake Martin to experience the beauty and recreational opportunities the community offers – whether on the water or off. To address this desire, Russell Lands recently opened the Adventure Center at Russell Crossroads, which is located in an authentic, rustic cabin across from Catherine’s Market. Here visitors and Russell Lands On Lake Martin residents can book guided (or self-guided) tours with an area naturalist to explore the area’s flora, fauna and native wildlife, rent canoes or kayaks (and arrange delivery to the lake), rent bikes for a Russell Forest trail ride, or meet with the Russell Lands adventure outfitter to plan a host of family activities such as guided horseback rides or geocaching on the trails. With such plentiful and diverse options now added to the existing boating, shopping and dining opportunities at Russell Lands On Lake Martin, everyone can now answer the question, “Where will the day take you?” in their own unique way.

Upcoming guided nature tours

July 3 & 4: “Nature’s Independence Day”
Please join Russell Lands On Lake Martin’s Naturalist, Marianne Hudson, to celebrate the Fourth of July by examining “Nature’s Independence Day.” Midsummer marks not only our nation’s independence, but also that of our young wildlife. This Guided Nature Tour will focus on discussing when local wildlife reach their age of sovereignty and learn to live apart from their parents. Each of our many native species has a different skill set to master before coming of age. Learn about this timeline while hiking one of the Russell Forest trails with our trained Naturalist. The 2.5 mile walk will begin at the Wilson Road Trailhead and last for approximately 90 minutes.  Wild animals face either liberty or death - discover more about their struggles for independence! Call the Adventure Center to register. Fee: $10.

Additional guided nature tours are scheduled for July 11 and 23. To see the full schedule, including free wildlife presentations at the Naturalist Cabin, visit the Russell Lands On Lake Martin Naturalist page on www.RussellLandsOnLakeMartin.com and download the PDF.

Please contact the Russell Crossroads Adventure Center at 256.215.7094 for dates, times and details.

For all Guided Nature Tours:
It is recommended that participants have a moderate fitness level and are able to stand or walk for at least two hours. Walking pace will be relaxed with frequent stops. Comfortable, seasonally appropriate clothing and shoes are advised. Participants may also wish to bring bottled water, sunscreen and insect repellent. Binoculars and cameras are welcome. There are no bathrooms on the Forest Trails.

Russell Crossroads Landing
Now you can get to Russell Crossroads by boat, and catch a shuttle to Catherine’s Market, SpringHouse, the Discovery Center or the Adventure Center! How do you find Russell Crossroads Landing? From Sand Island head East towards the Windermere Water Tower (tower is Sky blue) on the horizon. Bear to the left at the very back of the cove, and you will see new boat slips and a beach for pontoon boats.  A phone is inside the cabin to call the Adventure Center for shuttle service.

Adventure Center "Outfitters"
Kristen Sornsin
Henry "Doc" Holliday