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Horse Pens 40: A Natural Wonderland

Explore ancient rock formations, hike scenic trails, and experience world-class bouldering at Horse Pens 40, a natural wonderland in the Alabama mountains.

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Horse Pens 40 is a historic outdoor nature park atop Chandler Mountain in Steele, Alabama, featuring unique rock formations dating back over a billion years [2, 5, 12]. Known for its stunning natural beauty, the park offers hiking, camping, and is a world-renowned bouldering destination [2, 3, 6].

A brief summary to Horse Pens 40

Local tips

  • Check the Horse Pens 40 website or call ahead for information on events, gate closures, and camping reservations [2, 11].
  • Wear sturdy shoes for hiking and bouldering, as the terrain can be uneven and rocky [6, 9].
  • Bring your own water and snacks, especially if you plan on hiking or bouldering for an extended period [2].
  • Be prepared for steep and twisty mountain roads when approaching the park [7, 8].
  • Adhere to the park's 'Leave No Trace' policy to protect its fragile ecosystem [2].
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Horse Pens 40 is located at 3525 County Road 42, Steele, AL 35987 [2, 5]. From I-59, take exit 166 (Ashville) or exit 174 (Steele) and follow the signs to Horse Pens 40 [7, 8]. Note that County Road 42 can be steep and twisty [7, 8]. RVs and trailers should use the Steele exit (174) and follow County Road 42 from US-11 [7, 8]. Day passes are $8 per person [4, 6].

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Discover more about Horse Pens 40

Nestled atop Chandler Mountain in the foothills of the Appalachians, Horse Pens 40 is a 115-acre nature park boasting some of the oldest exposed stone formations in the world [5, 2]. These unique sandstone boulders, sculpted by eons of wind and water erosion, create a stunning landscape that has drawn visitors for millennia [3, 4]. Evidence suggests over 15,000 years of human habitation in the area, with Native American tribes using the rock shelters as protected villages, ceremonial grounds, and even natural horse corrals [2, 3, 12, 13, 17]. The park also holds historical significance as the site of the only peace treaty ever signed between the Creek and Cherokee nations [2, 3, 12]. During the Civil War, the rock formations served as a hiding place for horses and supplies [3, 13, 16]. Today, Horse Pens 40 is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts [2, 5, 6, 10]. It's renowned as a premier bouldering location, attracting climbers from around the globe to test their skills on its challenging slopers and top-outs [3, 6, 9, 11]. For those who prefer to keep their feet on the ground, the park offers scenic hiking trails that wind through the rock formations, leading to breathtaking views of the surrounding valley [2, 4, 6]. The park also hosts various events throughout the year, including bluegrass festivals, craft fairs, and bouldering competitions [2, 5, 14, 15, 21]. Whether you're seeking adventure, natural beauty, or a glimpse into the past, Horse Pens 40 offers a unique and unforgettable experience [2, 5, 10].

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