J.D. & Annie S. Hays Nature Preserve: A Natural Oasis
Explore diverse trails, spot wildlife, and connect with nature at this 538-acre preserve in Owens Cross Roads, Alabama. Open year-round!
Escape to the J.D. & Annie S. Hays Nature Preserve in Owens Cross Roads, Alabama, a 538-acre sanctuary offering diverse ecosystems, over 10 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities [2, 4, 5]. Managed by the City of Huntsville's Operation Green Team, the preserve is dedicated to conservation and education, making it a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts of all ages [2, 4].
A brief summary to J.D. & Annie S. Hays Nature Preserve
- 7161 US-431, Owens Cross Roads, Alabama, 35763, US
- +1256-427-5116
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-8 pm
- Thursday 6 am-8 pm
- Friday 6 am-8 pm
- Saturday 6 am-8 pm
- Sunday 6 am-8 pm
Local tips
- Bring binoculars for optimal birdwatching, as the preserve is part of the North Alabama Birding Trail [4, 7].
- Wear appropriate footwear for hiking, as trails range from paved greenways to unpaved forest paths [2, 4].
- Visit during different seasons to experience the changing landscapes and diverse recreational opportunities [8].
- Check the preserve's website for upcoming events, guided nature walks, and educational programs [7, 8].
Getting There
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Driving
From central Huntsville, take US-431 North towards Owens Cross Roads [6]. Continue on US-431 for approximately 15 miles [6]. The entrance to J.D. & Annie S. Hays Nature Preserve will be on your right [6]. Parking is available on-site, though it may be limited during special events [6].
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From anywhere in the Huntsville/Owens Cross Roads area, a taxi or ride-share service (Uber/Lyft) can provide direct transport to J.D. & Annie S. Hays Nature Preserve [6]. The destination address is 7161 US-431, Owens Cross Roads, AL 35763 [6]. Expect to pay around $20-$30 for a one-way trip from downtown Huntsville [6]. Confirm the fare before you start your trip. Parking is free.
Discover more about J.D. & Annie S. Hays Nature Preserve
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lost Sink Falls
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Cambron Covered Bridge
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Keel Mountain
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Flow Huntsville Trampoline Park
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Tennessee Valley Civil War Round Table
13.1 km
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Moore-Rhett House
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Lowe Mansion
13.6 km
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Central School Historical Marker
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Harrison Brothers Hardware
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Schiffman Building
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Five Points Historic District
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Big Spring Park East
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Big Spring International Park
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Alabama Historical Marker
14.1 km
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Scenethat Tours
14.1 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
The Farbman Halloween House
1.2 km
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Hampton Cove Waterfall
2.0 km
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Land Trust of North Alabama: Blevins Gap Nature Preserve
4.3 km
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Blevins Gap Nature Preserve
4.4 km
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Aldridge Creek Greenway
6.2 km
A scenic 5.49-mile paved trail in Huntsville, perfect for walking, jogging, and cycling along Aldridge Creek.
Madison County Nature Trail
6.5 km
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Green Mountain South
6.7 km
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Jones Farm Park
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The Big Cat Creek Tract
8.8 km
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Burritt Nature Trails
9.7 km
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Burritt on the Mountain
10.1 km
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Joel Eddins House
10.1 km
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Monte Sano Giant Cross (74 ft.)
10.3 km
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Trough Springs Trail
10.3 km
Hike through history on Monte Sano's Trough Springs Trail, where a Civil War surrender marked the end of an era in North Alabama.
Land Trust of North Alabama: Monte Sano Nature Preserve South Trailhead
10.4 km
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Essential places to dine
Nick's Ristorante
6.2 km
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Mellow Mushroom Huntsville South
6.4 km
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Peppered Pig
7.7 km
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Flight Plan Wine And Tapas
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Walton's Southern Table
10.2 km
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Hildegard's German Cuisine
12.0 km
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Carrabba's Italian Grill
12.6 km
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City Cafe Diner
12.7 km
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Char Restaurant
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Farm Burger Huntsville
13.0 km
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STONE AGE KOREAN BBQ
13.2 km
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Ruth's Chris Steak House
13.3 km
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Bad Daddy's Burger Bar
13.3 km
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Cajun Steamer Bar & Grill
13.4 km
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The Palate, by Chef Will
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Willowbrook Shoppe
6.5 km
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Alabama Goods - Huntsville
7.7 km
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Top Key Market
8.5 km
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Firehouse Antiques & Collectibles
8.6 km
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The Cottage Collective
9.6 km
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Elite Boutique
10.4 km
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Weaver's Department Store
10.5 km
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Sweet Pineapple
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Country Camp Store, Monte Sano
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The Little Green Store and Gallery
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Rich Broke Boutique - Huntsville
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Huntsville Vintage
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The Southern Decorista
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Huntsville Hospital for Women & Children Gift Shop
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The 19th Hole Sports Lounge
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Thirsty Turtle
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Swamp Water Louie's
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The Brass Tap
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Voodoo Lounge Bar & Grill
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Domaine South wine shop & wine bar
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Jefferson Street Pub
14.1 km
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Whiskey Bottom saloon
14.1 km
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Miller's Tavern
14.1 km
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Baker & Able
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SiP Fine Spirits & Cigar Lounge
14.2 km
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Stella's Elixir Lounge
14.3 km
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Twilite Restaurant & Lounge
14.7 km
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The Nook
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Lone Goose Saloon
15.0 km
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