Moss Rock Preserve: Hoover's Natural Escape
Explore natural beauty, hiking trails, and unique rock formations at this 349-acre nature preserve in Hoover, Alabama. A perfect outdoor escape!
Moss Rock Preserve is a 349-acre nature preserve in Hoover, Alabama, offering a diverse landscape of forests, rock formations, streams, and waterfalls [3, 6, 16]. Popular for hiking, bouldering, and enjoying nature, it's a unique urban oasis with rare plant species and geological features [3, 6].
A brief summary to Moss Rock Preserve
- 617 Preserve Way, Hoover, Alabama, 35226, US
- +1205-739-7141
Local tips
- Wear appropriate footwear for hiking, as the trails can be rocky and uneven [2, 4].
- Bring water and snacks, especially if you plan on hiking for an extended period [4, 14].
- Be aware of your surroundings and follow trail markers, as there are many intersecting paths [9].
- Visit during the winter or rainy months to see the waterfalls at their fullest [12].
- Check the City of Hoover website for preserve rules and trail updates [6, 13].
Getting There
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Driving
From I-459, take Exit 10 (Highway 150) and head east towards Hoover [4]. Turn left onto Preserve Parkway and continue for about 2 miles [2, 4]. Depending on which trailhead you prefer, parking is available at the Boulder Field Trailhead (617 Preserve Pkwy), the Sulphur Springs Road Gravel Parking Lot (turn left onto Sulphur Springs Rd shortly after the Preserve Pkwy intersection), or the Simmons Middle School Lower Parking Lot Trailhead (turn left onto Patton Chapel Rd) [2, 4]. Parking is free at all trailheads [4].
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Ride-Sharing
From anywhere in Hoover or nearby Birmingham suburbs, using a ride-sharing service (Uber/Lyft) to Moss Rock Preserve is a convenient option [4]. Input the address of your desired trailhead (Boulder Field Trailhead - 617 Preserve Pkwy, Sulphur Springs Trailhead - near 4600 Preserve Pkwy, or Simmons Middle School Trailhead - 1575 Patton Chapel Rd) as your destination [2, 4]. Expect to pay between $15-$30 depending on the distance and demand [4].
Discover more about Moss Rock Preserve
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Monte D'Oro Historical Marker
4.4 km
Discover the Monte D'Oro Historical Marker in Hoover, Alabama – a captivating glimpse into the rich history and cultural heritage of this vibrant community.
Hoist House at Redding Shaft Mine
7.6 km
Explore Birmingham's mining history at the Hoist House, a preserved landmark in Red Mountain Park offering a glimpse into the past.
Sloss Mines Hoist House
8.6 km
Explore Birmingham's industrial heritage at the Sloss Mines Hoist House, a window into the region's iron ore mining past on Red Mountain.
Birmingham Historic Touring Company
10.1 km
Explore Birmingham's history with guided tours that reveal the city’s rich heritage, iconic landmarks, and captivating stories from the past.
Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.’s ‘Letter From Birmingham Jail’ Marker
12.9 km
A marker commemorating Martin Luther King Jr.'s powerful 'Letter From Birmingham Jail,' a cornerstone of the Civil Rights Movement, located in front of the former Birmingham City Jail.
The Old Mill
13.4 km
Discover the historic charm of The Old Mill in Mountain Brook, a picturesque landmark offering a glimpse into Birmingham's past and a tranquil escape into nature's beauty.
Five Points South Historical Marker
13.8 km
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Owen Plantation House
13.8 km
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Historic Cahaba Pumping Station
13.8 km
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Dread River Distilling Company
14.8 km
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The Jordan Home (Dr. Mortimer Jordan)
14.8 km
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Alabama Adventure & Splash Adventure
14.9 km
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Historic 4th Avenue Business District
15.1 km
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The Woodward Building
15.1 km
Birmingham's first skyscraper, the Woodward Building, showcases Chicago-style architecture and stands as a landmark of the 'Heaviest Corner on Earth'.
Heaviest Corner On Earth
15.1 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Ross Bridge Historical Park
2.7 km
Explore a Civil War-era bridge and scenic trails at this historical park in Hoover, Alabama. Open daily!
Cahaba Riverchase Greenway Trailhead
3.4 km
Discover a peaceful.5-mile paved trail along the Cahaba River in Hoover, perfect for a quick nature escape and enjoying local wetlands.
Lover's Leap
3.7 km
Discover Lover's Leap in Birmingham: A historic overlook with breathtaking views, rich legends, and a romantic atmosphere on Shades Mountain.
Chace Lake Park
3.8 km
Enjoy a peaceful walk or workout at this community park in Hoover, AL, featuring trails, fitness stations, and a relaxing atmosphere.
Aldridge Gardens
4.5 km
Discover natural beauty, art, and community at Aldridge Gardens in Hoover, Alabama, featuring the iconic Snowflake Hydrangea and serene walking trails.
Georgetown Lake Park
4.7 km
Discover a peaceful retreat at Georgetown Lake Park in Hoover, AL, offering scenic trails, a tranquil lake, and family-friendly amenities for outdoor enjoyment.
Hoover Met Stadium
4.9 km
A versatile stadium in Hoover, Alabama, hosting baseball, football, concerts, and the SEC Baseball Tournament.
Blue Ridge Nature Trail
5.0 km
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McCallum Park
6.8 km
Escape to McCallum Park in Vestavia Hills: scenic trails, playground, and a tranquil creek for a refreshing outdoor experience and community connection.
Red Mountain Park
7.4 km
Explore Birmingham's Red Mountain Park: Hike scenic trails, discover mining history, and enjoy stunning city views in this urban oasis.
Oak Mountain State Fair
7.5 km
Experience classic fairground fun with thrilling rides, games, delicious food, and live entertainment at Oak Mountain State Fair in Pelham, AL.
Oak Mountain Amphitheatre
7.6 km
Alabama's former premier outdoor music venue, hosting legendary artists in rock, country, pop, and R&B for decades. A cherished memory for music fans.
Front Gate at Oak Mountain State Park
8.9 km
Discover Alabama's largest state park: a haven for outdoor adventures, scenic beauty, and diverse recreational activities near Birmingham.
Byrd Park
9.1 km
A charming Vestavia Hills park with walking trails, playgrounds, and picnic spots for a relaxing outdoor experience.
Pelham City Park
9.1 km
Pelham City Park: A vibrant community hub offering diverse recreational activities, sports facilities, and community events in the heart of Pelham, Alabama.
Essential places to dine
J. Alexander's Restaurant
3.2 km
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Walk-On's Sports Bistreaux - Stadium Trace Restaurant
3.3 km
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Jim 'N Nick's Bar-B-Q
3.6 km
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First Watch
4.0 km
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Tre Luna Bar and Kitchen
4.1 km
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Texas Roadhouse
7.2 km
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Margarita Grill
7.3 km
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Cracker Barrel Old Country Store
7.3 km
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Chick-fil-A
7.4 km
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Creekside BBQ
7.7 km
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The Grille
9.2 km
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Gianmarco's Restaurant
9.3 km
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Bricktop's
12.2 km
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Perry's Steakhouse & Grille
12.4 km
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Culinary Dropout
12.5 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
World Market
2.2 km
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Academy Sports + Outdoors
2.5 km
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J&V clothes
2.8 km
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Riverchase Galleria
2.8 km
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Windsor
2.9 km
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Old Navy
2.9 km
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Elegant Jewelers
2.9 km
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Shades Mountain Mercantile
3.7 km
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On-A-Shoestring Trading Co
3.7 km
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The Beveled Edge
5.3 km
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Fun Stuff
7.9 km
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At Your Imagination
8.1 km
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Oak Mountain Hobbies & Toys - Drones, RC Cars, Trains, Parts & Service Shop
8.1 km
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Gifted
8.1 km
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Myrtle Jane's South
8.3 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Twin Peaks
2.3 km
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bar
2.4 km
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Dave & Buster's Birmingham
3.0 km
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Gabriel's Cafe
3.7 km
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Perfect Note
4.2 km
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Barrister's Tavern
4.5 km
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Blue's Bourbon & Brews
5.7 km
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Pub 261
5.7 km
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Ragtime Cafe
6.1 km
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The Chandelier Lounge
7.2 km
Discover the elegance of The Chandelier Lounge in Pelham, Alabama, where exquisite cocktails and stunning ambiance create unforgettable evenings.
Hooters
7.4 km
Experience the thrill of sports and savor delicious American cuisine at Hooters in Pelham, Alabama, a must-visit sports bar for all food lovers.
The Beer Hog
7.6 km
Explore craft beer culture at The Beer Hog in Pelham, Alabama, where a lively atmosphere meets an exceptional selection of brews.
Taco Mac Pelham
7.6 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and mouth-watering American cuisine at Taco Mac Pelham, your go-to sports bar in Alabama for wings and fun.
The Ridge Eat & Drink
7.8 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at The Ridge Eat & Drink in Vestavia Hills, Alabama, where delicious food meets a warm, inviting atmosphere.
StirCrazy
9.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at StirCrazy, a lively bar in Birmingham, Alabama, perfect for cocktails and good company.
