From Eve
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Keel Mountain.
Local know-how to help you travel smarter and make the most of every moment.
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.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Keel Mountain
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Alabama, US
Discover more about Keel Mountain
Keel Mountain, a prominent mesa in northern Alabama, stretches across both Madison and Jackson Counties [3]. Rising to an elevation of 1,204 feet (367 meters), it stands apart from the Cumberland Plateau, separated by the picturesque Paint Rock River valley [3, 5]. The mountain is named after Jesse and Priscilla (Whitaker) Keel, early pioneers from North Carolina who settled here before 1810 [3, 6].Today, Keel Mountain is a destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for hiking and exploring its natural beauty. The Land Trust of North Alabama manages the 360-acre Bethel Spring Nature Preserve on the mountain's south side, featuring nearly two miles of trails and a large waterfall, one of the largest in Madison County [3]. In 2021, the Bethel Spring Recreational Preserve Trail System was added to the National Trails System's list of National Recreational Trails [3].The Nature Conservancy also protects a 310-acre preserve on the mountain's south-facing slope [3, 4]. Here, a two-mile trail leads to the Lost Sink, a striking sinkhole with a waterfall that flows into it [3, 8]. This preserve was established to safeguard the federally-endangered Clematis morefieldii, also known as the Morefield's leather flower [3, 7]. The mountain's geology consists of sedimentary rock layers, including various types of limestone and sandstone [19].
Explore places near Keel Mountain
Getting There
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].
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].
A brief summary to Keel Mountain
Use Keel Mountain as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
Get the app
Your all‑in‑one travel companion app
Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.
More about Appalachian Mountains
Explore the tranquil beauty and rich heritage of Alabama's Appalachian Mountains, where nature and culture blend seamlessly into an unforgettable experience.
Tell me more about Appalachian Mountains
