Alabama's known for its skies being "so blue," but in the evening, the skies transform to vibrant hues of purple, orange, pink, and more. Some days, you have to pinch yourself and ask, "Is this real or a painting?"
After each day's 9 to 5, the sun starts to set and evolve on the trek home, but there are spots where that setting takes your breath away.
Chimney Peak, Jacksonville
In Jacksonville, as you head north on 21 but before reaching the college, between Effina's and the Post Office, turn onto Mountain Street. It is a Mountain Street indeed, climbing to the top with its tower overlooking campus and a view than spans north, south, east and west for miles. The best sunsets often come with some clouds, sometimes even just after a storm.
Ladiga Trail, Piedmont
There are several spots along the trail, with its picturesque fields, streams, lakes and creeks that offer the perfect setting for a sunset, but a favorite spot is just outside Piedmont, heading south on the trail. Where Highway 21 crosses over the trail, the substructure beams and surrounding vast farmed fields, create a picture worthy canvas backdrop for anyone visiting the trails.
Neely Henry Lake, Ohatchee
This 11,00 acre lake is not only perfect for skiing and fishing, but its location along Highway 77 is the perfect setting for a sunset picnic. Alabama Power's Ten Island Park is open from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. everyday. I think you'll agree the image looks like something you would imagine as a setting for "The Notebook."
Buckhorn, Weaver
At Zoe's on the Lake, you can grab a bite to eat, and sit back and enjoy the view of the sun setting over the lake. Located off the Alexandria/Jacksonville Highway in Weaver, this area's surroundings almost seem idyllic, especially when the sun starts to set. You can opt for indoor dining in the air-conditioning or outdoor seating on their Angel Lake pavilion.
Oxford Lake, Oxford Civic Center
A walking track that almost encompasses a mile around the lake, offers a playground for the kids and great pavilions and settings for picnicking before sunset. Its also a great background for one of Alabama's oldest covered bridges, the Coldwater Covered Bridge.
Anniston By-Pass/Bain's Gap, Fort McClellan
With encircling views of Cheaha, Anniston and Calhoun County, as you climb the mountain sides, the views get better and better. For many, it's the road home, and its surrounded by beautiful landscapes. The Mountain Longleaf Wildlife Refuge and Talladega National Forest paint hillsides of vibrant greens and glowing trees each fall.
Other Sites Nearby:
Cheaha State Park, Delta, Alabama
The highest point in Alabama never disappoints, not even on a cloudy day.
With majestic views of surrounding counties, including Calhoun, Cheaha State Park has great sites for camping, picnicking, and hiking. The Bald Rock overlook is also handicap accessible for a beautiful breath-taking sight. The best view comes each fall to the lodge. Wait just around the pool for a one-of-a-kind scene, encompassed by the Talladega National Forest.
Pinhoti Trail, Piedmont, Alabama
This southern Appalachian Trail connector has a total of 339 miles,
171.2 of which are in Alabama. This trail offers expansive views of the foothills of the Appalachian Mountain range and striking sunsets. There is a trailhead along Hwy 278 north of Piedmont, almost to the Georgia line, and the Davis Mountain Shelter is a two mile hike from the north trail head with a great view.
2. Be a part of something. 
5. Check out other majors. 
Want to add to your resume and make great contacts while you're still in school? Apply for student worker positions and search for community internships. It's a great way to try careers before graduation.
