Altoona is a charming town nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains in Etowah County, Alabama, United States. Situated in the northeastern part of the state, Altoona boasts a rich history, beautiful natural scenery, and a tight-knit community. With a population of approximately 1,000 residents, Altoona offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The town is known for its friendly atmosphere, outdoor recreational opportunities, and small-town charm. Visitors to Altoona can explore its historic downtown area, hike along scenic trails, and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.
Geography
Altoona is located in the northeastern corner of Alabama, nestled within the rolling hills of the Appalachian foothills. The town is bordered by the beautiful landscape of rural Etowah County, with lush forests, winding rivers, and expansive valleys defining its natural surroundings. Altoona’s location provides easy access to outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, and camping, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers.
Population and Area
As of the latest census data, Altoona has a population of approximately 1,000 residents. The town covers a total area of 3.5 square miles, consisting of residential neighborhoods, farmland, and wooded areas. Despite its small size, Altoona offers a range of amenities and services to its residents, including local businesses, schools, and community facilities.
Famous Company or University
While Altoona is primarily a rural town known for its natural beauty and small-town charm, it is located within close proximity to several notable institutions. Nearby Gadsden is home to Gadsden State Community College, a comprehensive two-year college offering a variety of academic programs and career training opportunities. Additionally, the area is known for its thriving agriculture industry, with numerous farms and agricultural businesses contributing to the local economy.
Major Landmarks
Although Altoona is a small town, it is surrounded by numerous natural landmarks and points of interest. The nearby Appalachian Mountains offer stunning vistas and opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. Locally, residents and visitors can explore the scenic beauty of Canoe Creek Park, which features hiking trails, picnic areas, and a tranquil creek for fishing and paddling. Additionally, the town’s historic downtown area is home to charming shops, restaurants, and historic buildings that reflect Altoona’s rich heritage.
Climate and Weather Overview
Altoona experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters. To provide a comprehensive overview of Altoona’s climate, the following table lists average temperature, precipitation, and sunny days for each month of the year:
| Month | Average Temperature (F) | Precipitation (inches) | Sunny Days |
| January | 45.1 | 5.3 | 11 |
| February | 48.7 | 5.0 | 12 |
| March | 55.8 | 6.5 | 14 |
| April | 63.7 | 5.1 | 15 |
| May | 71.7 | 4.7 | 16 |
| June | 79.6 | 4.1 | 17 |
| July | 83.9 | 4.7 | 17 |
| August | 83.6 | 4.2 | 16 |
| September | 78.1 | 3.9 | 15 |
| October | 67.3 | 3.4 | 14 |
| November | 57.0 | 4.7 | 12 |
| December | 48.2 | 4.9 | 11 |
Weather by Month
January
January in Altoona is characterized by cool temperatures and occasional precipitation, with an average temperature of 45.1°F. The month marks the peak of winter, with short days and chilly nights. While snowfall is rare, residents may encounter occasional rain showers and freezing temperatures. Despite the cooler weather, January offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the town’s historic landmarks.
Natural Disasters: January in Altoona may experience occasional winter storms, including snowfall and freezing temperatures. While significant snow accumulation is rare, residents should be prepared for icy road conditions and reduced visibility during snow showers.
Recommended Activities: Outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and exploring local parks are perfect for January, as residents embrace the tranquility of winter in the Appalachian foothills. Indoor activities such as visiting local museums, attending community events, and cozying up by the fireplace offer opportunities to stay entertained and connected with the community.
February
February continues the cool temperatures of January in Altoona, with an average temperature of 48.7°F. While snowfall is rare, residents may encounter occasional rain showers and freezing temperatures. Despite the cooler weather, February offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and exploring the town’s scenic trails.
Natural Disasters: February in Altoona may experience occasional winter storms, including snowfall and freezing temperatures. While significant snow accumulation is rare, residents should be prepared for icy road conditions and reduced visibility during snow showers.
Recommended Activities: Outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and exploring local parks are perfect for February, as residents make the most of the winter weather. Indoor activities such as visiting local cafes, attending community events, and enjoying cozy nights in offer opportunities to stay connected with the community.
March
March marks the transition to spring in Altoona, with temperatures gradually warming up to an average of 55.8°F. The month is characterized by longer days, milder temperatures, and the emergence of springtime blooms. While rain showers are common, residents and visitors can expect occasional sunny days and pleasant weather for outdoor activities.
Natural Disasters: March in Altoona may experience occasional spring storms, including rain showers and gusty winds. While severe weather is rare, residents should stay informed about weather forecasts and be prepared for changing conditions.
Recommended Activities: Outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and nature walks are perfect for March, as residents celebrate the arrival of spring. Indoor activities such as visiting local art galleries, attending community events, and enjoying farm-to-table dining offer opportunities to experience the region’s unique culture and hospitality.
April
April brings warmer temperatures and blooming flowers to Altoona, with an average temperature of 63.7°F. The month is characterized by longer days, milder evenings, and the peak of springtime activity. While rain showers are common, residents and visitors can expect occasional sunny days and pleasant weather for outdoor activities.
Natural Disasters: April in Altoona is typically free from severe weather events, with minimal precipitation and mild temperatures. Residents should take precautions to stay hydrated and protected from the sun while enjoying outdoor activities.
Recommended Activities: Outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and picnicking are perfect for April, as residents embrace the beauty of springtime in the Appalachian foothills. Indoor activities such as visiting local shops, attending outdoor concerts, and enjoying farm-fresh produce offer opportunities to experience the region’s vibrant culture and hospitality.
May
May brings warmer temperatures and longer days to Altoona, with an average temperature of 71.7°F. The month is characterized by sunny skies, mild evenings, and the official start of spring. Residents and visitors can expect clear skies and minimal precipitation, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploration.
Natural Disasters: May in Altoona is typically free from severe weather events, with minimal precipitation and mild temperatures. Residents should take precautions to stay hydrated and protected from the sun while enjoying outdoor activities.
Recommended Activities: Outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and picnicking are perfect for May, as residents enjoy the warmer weather and blooming flowers. Indoor activities such as visiting local farmers’ markets, attending outdoor concerts, and dining at outdoor patios offer opportunities to experience the region’s vibrant culture and hospitality.
June
June brings warmer temperatures and sunny skies to Altoona, with an average temperature of 79.6°F. The month is characterized by long, sunny days, warm evenings, and the official start of summer. Residents and visitors can expect clear skies and minimal precipitation, making it an ideal time for outdoor recreation and exploration.
Natural Disasters: June in Altoona is typically free from severe weather events, with minimal precipitation and warm temperatures. Residents should take precautions to stay hydrated and protected from the sun while enjoying outdoor activities.
Recommended Activities: Outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and picnicking are perfect for June, as residents embrace the arrival of summer. Indoor activities such as visiting local art galleries, attending outdoor concerts, and dining at outdoor patios offer opportunities to experience the region’s vibrant arts and culture scene.
July
July brings hot temperatures and sunny skies to Altoona, with an average temperature of 83.9°F. The month is characterized by sweltering heat, high humidity, and the peak of summer activity. Residents and visitors can expect clear skies and minimal precipitation, making it an ideal time for outdoor recreation and exploration.
Natural Disasters: July in Altoona is typically free from severe weather events, with minimal precipitation and hot temperatures. Residents should take precautions to stay hydrated and protected from the sun while enjoying outdoor activities.
Recommended Activities: Outdoor activities such as swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding are perfect for July, as residents seek relief from the summer heat. Indoor activities such as visiting local ice cream shops, attending outdoor concerts, and enjoying summer festivals offer opportunities to experience the region’s vibrant culture and hospitality.
August
August continues the hot temperatures of July in Altoona, with an average temperature of 83.6°F. The month is characterized by sweltering heat, high humidity, and the peak of summer activity. Residents and visitors can expect clear skies and minimal precipitation, making it an ideal time for outdoor recreation and exploration.
Natural Disasters: August in Altoona is typically free from severe weather events, with minimal precipitation and hot temperatures. Residents should take precautions to stay hydrated and protected from the sun while enjoying outdoor activities.
Recommended Activities: Outdoor activities such as camping, fishing, and stargazing are perfect for August, as residents make the most of the warm summer nights. Indoor activities such as visiting local farmers’ markets, attending outdoor concerts, and enjoying summer festivals offer opportunities to experience the region’s unique culture and cuisine.
September
September brings cooler temperatures and fewer crowds to Altoona, with an average temperature of 78.1°F. The month is characterized by mild weather, sunny skies, and the transition from summer to fall. Residents and visitors can expect clear skies and minimal precipitation, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploration.
Natural Disasters: September in Altoona is typically free from severe weather events, with minimal precipitation and mild temperatures. Residents should take precautions to stay hydrated and protected from the sun while enjoying outdoor activities.
Recommended Activities: Outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and apple picking are perfect for September, as residents celebrate the arrival of fall. Indoor activities such as visiting local cider mills, attending fall festivals, and enjoying seasonal harvests offer opportunities to experience the region’s agricultural heritage and culinary delights.
October
October brings cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage to Altoona, with an average temperature of 67.3°F. The month is characterized by crisp mornings, sunny days, and the peak of fall foliage. Residents and visitors can expect clear skies and minimal precipitation, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploration.
Natural Disasters: October in Altoona is typically free from severe weather events, with minimal precipitation and mild temperatures. Residents should take precautions to stay warm and dry while enjoying outdoor activities.
Recommended Activities: Outdoor activities such as leaf-peeping, pumpkin picking, and corn mazes are perfect for October, as residents embrace the beauty of fall. Indoor activities such as visiting local pumpkin patches, attending fall festivals, and enjoying seasonal treats offer opportunities to experience the region’s unique culture and hospitality.
November
November brings cooler temperatures and shorter days to Altoona, with an average temperature of 57.0°F. The month is characterized by chilly weather, occasional rain showers, and the transition from fall to winter. Residents and visitors can expect clear skies and minimal precipitation, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploration.
Natural Disasters: November in Altoona is typically free from severe weather events, with minimal precipitation and cool temperatures. Residents should take precautions to stay warm and dry while enjoying outdoor activities.
Recommended Activities: Outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and enjoying fall harvests are perfect for November, as residents savor the last days of autumn. Indoor activities such as visiting local craft fairs, attending Thanksgiving events, and enjoying cozy nights by the fire offer opportunities to experience the region’s unique culture and hospitality.
December
December brings cold temperatures and holiday cheer to Altoona, with an average temperature of 48.2°F. The month is characterized by winter landscapes, festive decorations, and the spirit of the season. Residents and visitors can expect clear skies and occasional snow showers, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploration.
Natural Disasters: December in Altoona may experience occasional winter storms, including snowfall and freezing temperatures. Residents should take precautions to stay warm and dry while enjoying outdoor activities.
Recommended Activities: Outdoor activities such as sledding, ice fishing, and holiday light displays are perfect for December, as residents celebrate the holiday season. Indoor activities such as visiting local holiday markets, attending Christmas events, and enjoying cozy nights by the fire offer opportunities to experience the region’s unique culture and hospitality.