Keel Mountain: A Natural Oasis in Alabama
Explore Keel Mountain in Alabama: Hike to Lost Sink Falls, discover rare plants, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Cumberland Plateau.
Keel Mountain, a mesa spanning Madison and Jackson Counties in Alabama, offers a serene escape with hiking trails, a unique waterfall, and diverse flora and fauna. It's a haven for nature lovers and those seeking outdoor adventure.
A brief summary to Keel Mountain
- Alabama, US
Local tips
- Visit after a rainfall to see the Lost Sink Falls at its most impressive [8].
- Wear sturdy pants and apply bug spray, as the trails can be overgrown and insects are common [7].
- Download a trail map before you go, as the trails can be difficult to follow in some areas [11].
- Bring plenty of water, especially during the hot summer months [7, 17].
- Leashed pets are allowed on the trails [7, 17].
Getting There
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Driving
To reach Keel Mountain Preserve from Huntsville, take US Highway 72 East towards Scottsboro. In Gurley, turn right onto Little Cove Road, then left onto McMullen Road. Continue for 4-5 miles on McMullen Road, keeping left at the unmarked fork [4, 7]. Look for a small gravel parking area and a sign for the preserve on the left side of the road [4, 13]. Parking is free [17]. Be aware that McMullen Road is a narrow, shoulder-less country road [16]. GPS directions are recommended [7].
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Walking
From the parking area [13], the Lost Sink Falls Trail is well-marked by a large sign [11]. The 1.9-mile trail leads to the Lost Sink Falls [8]. The trail is moderately challenging with rocky terrain and steep inclines [17]. The path is not always clearly marked, so pay attention to the worn path and trail markers [11, 17]. There are several downed trees on the path [11]. The trail can be muddy, especially after rain [8, 13]. The hike to the waterfall takes approximately 4 hours [12].
Discover more about Keel Mountain
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Keel Mountain
0.0 km
Explore Keel Mountain in Alabama: Hike to Lost Sink Falls, discover rare plants, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Cumberland Plateau.
Lost Sink Falls
8.0 km
Discover the enchanting Lost Sink Falls at Keel Mountain Preserve, a hidden gem near Huntsville with a unique disappearing waterfall.
Grant Lookout
12.7 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views from atop Gunter Mountain at Grant Lookout in Grant, Alabama. A must-see for nature lovers and photographers!
Cambron Covered Bridge
16.1 km
A scenic covered bridge on Green Mountain in Huntsville, Alabama, offering a tranquil escape and picturesque views within a natural setting.
Central School Historical Marker
19.1 km
Explore Huntsville's Central School Historical Marker, a tribute to the city's educational past and a gateway to its rich history.
Guntersville Lake
21.3 km
Experience the natural beauty and outdoor adventures at Guntersville Lake, Alabama's stunning recreational paradise.
Flint River Place
22.7 km
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Cooley Cemetery
22.9 km
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Tennessee Valley Civil War Round Table
24.3 km
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Flow Huntsville Trampoline Park
24.4 km
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Moore-Rhett House
24.5 km
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Lowe Mansion
24.7 km
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Five Points Historic District
24.8 km
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Bicentennial Park
25.0 km
A vibrant downtown Huntsville park with a splash pad, green space, and community events, perfect for family fun and relaxation in the heart of the city.
Alabama Constitution Hall Park
25.0 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
J.D. & Annie S. Hays Nature Preserve
12.0 km
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Hampton Cove Waterfall
12.3 km
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Stephens Gap Callahan Cave Preserve
12.4 km
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The Farbman Halloween House
12.7 km
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Madison County Nature Trail
16.0 km
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Land Trust of North Alabama: Blevins Gap Nature Preserve
16.3 km
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Blevins Gap Nature Preserve
16.4 km
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Green Mountain South
16.8 km
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Honeycomb Natural Bridge
18.0 km
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Aldridge Creek Greenway
18.0 km
Explore Huntsville's natural beauty on this 6.5-mile paved greenway, perfect for walking, running, and biking along scenic Aldridge Creek.
The Big Cat Creek Tract
18.9 km
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Jones Farm Park
19.7 km
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Sauta Cave National Wildlife Refuge
19.8 km
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Burritt Nature Trails
20.2 km
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Monte Sano State Park
20.3 km
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Essential places to dine
Nick's Ristorante
18.1 km
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Mellow Mushroom Huntsville South
18.3 km
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Peppered Pig
19.6 km
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Flight Plan Wine And Tapas
19.6 km
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Walton's Southern Table
21.9 km
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Boarhog's Barbeque
22.9 km
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Puck’s by the Lake
23.0 km
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Hildegard's German Cuisine
23.4 km
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Waffle House
24.0 km
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Carrabba's Italian Grill
24.2 km
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City Cafe Diner
24.3 km
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Char Restaurant
24.5 km
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Ruth's Chris Steak House
24.5 km
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Farm Burger Huntsville
24.5 km
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Cajun Steamer Bar & Grill
24.6 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Willowbrook Shoppe
18.5 km
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Alabama Goods - Huntsville
19.6 km
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Firehouse Antiques & Collectibles
20.4 km
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Top Key Market
20.4 km
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Country Camp Store, Monte Sano
20.7 km
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Junkabillies, LLC
20.8 km
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The Cottage Collective
21.6 km
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The Little Green Store and Gallery
21.6 km
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Weaver's Department Store
22.2 km
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Elite Boutique
22.2 km
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Sweet Pineapple
22.5 km
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Ever After Marketplace
23.1 km
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Huntsville Hospital for Women & Children Gift Shop
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Golden Griffin
24.0 km
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Build-A-Bear Workshop
24.2 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The 19th Hole Sports Lounge
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Thirsty Turtle
22.2 km
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Swamp Water Louie's
24.4 km
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The Brass Tap
24.5 km
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Voodoo Lounge Bar & Grill
25.1 km
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Whiskey Bottom saloon
25.2 km
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Domaine South wine shop & wine bar
25.2 km
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Miller's Tavern
25.2 km
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Jefferson Street Pub
25.2 km
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Baker & Able
25.3 km
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SiP Fine Spirits & Cigar Lounge
25.3 km
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Catacomb 435
25.4 km
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Stella's Elixir Lounge
25.4 km
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Copper Top Bar & Grill
26.0 km
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Twilite Restaurant & Lounge
26.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Huntsville at Twilite Restaurant & Lounge, where exquisite cocktails and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.
