Background

Turkey Creek Nature Preserve: A Birmingham Natural Escape

Discover natural beauty and endangered species habitat at Turkey Creek Nature Preserve, a historic site with trails, falls, and birding, just north of Birmingham.

4.6
A question is required

Just 15 miles north of Birmingham, Turkey Creek Nature Preserve offers a refreshing escape into nature with over seven miles of trails, a cascading waterfall, and diverse wildlife. It's a testament to community resilience, protecting endangered species and offering outdoor education [2, 11].

A brief summary to Turkey Creek Nature Preserve

  • Wednesday 9 am-5:30 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5:30 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5:30 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5:30 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-5:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the week or early on weekends to avoid crowds, especially during the summer months [8].
  • Wear appropriate footwear for hiking, as some trails can be rough and rocky [2].
  • Bring your dog, but keep it on a leash at all times and clean up after it [2, 18].
  • Take advantage of the educational programs offered to learn more about the preserve's ecology and history [3, 5, 11, 12].
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy at the designated picnic areas near the falls or back gate [2].
widget icon

Getting There

  • Driving

    From Birmingham, take I-20 E/I-59 N to the Tallapoosa Street exit (#128) [3, 5, 17]. Keep right at the fork to merge onto Hwy 79/Tallapoosa St [17]. Continue on AL-79 N for about 12 miles [3, 5]. Turn left onto Narrows Road, then turn right onto Turkey Creek Road [3, 5]. The preserve entrance will be on your right. Parking is free, but limited, especially during peak season [2]. Parking is available at Blue Hole, the Falls, and the Highland area [2]. Expect limited parking and potential congestion during peak times [2, 16]. There are no tolls on this route.

  • Public Transport

    While there is no direct public transportation to Turkey Creek Nature Preserve, you can take a bus to Pinson and then a taxi or ride-sharing service to the preserve. From downtown Birmingham, check for bus routes heading towards Pinson. Taxi or ride-share services from Pinson to the preserve (approximately 5 miles) typically cost $15-$25. Check local transit schedules and ride-sharing apps for the most up-to-date fares and availability.

Unlock the Best of Turkey Creek Nature Preserve

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

q

Discover more about Turkey Creek Nature Preserve

Turkey Creek Nature Preserve, a 466-acre sanctuary near Pinson, Alabama, presents a diverse ecosystem and a rich history, appealing to outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful retreat [5, 11, 12]. Established in 2003, the preserve stands as a testament to community resilience and conservation [2, 11]. The preserve's history includes prehistoric Native American settlements drawn to the area's resources [5, 11, 10]. In the early 1800s, John Hanby established a grist mill and iron forge along the creek, contributing to the region's industrial development [2, 5, 11]. His son, David Hanby, expanded the operations, further cementing Turkey Creek's role in the local economy [2, 5, 11]. By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the area thrived as a hub of industrial and community activity, with a railway connecting local mining operations [2, 5, 11]. Turkey Creek is home to three endangered species of fish: the Vermilion Darter, the Watercress Darter, and the Rush Darter [3, 5, 12]. The Vermilion Darter is found only in Turkey Creek, making the preserve a critical habitat [5, 11, 12]. Visitors can explore over seven miles of well-maintained hiking and biking trails through pine and hardwood forests, discover the beauty of Turkey Creek Falls, and admire seasonal wildflowers [2, 3, 11]. The preserve is a stop on the Appalachian Highlands Birding Trail, offering opportunities to see various bird species [2, 3, 8]. Turkey Creek Nature Preserve offers educational programs focused on aquatic ecology, water quality, and local history [3, 5, 11, 12]. These programs provide hands-on learning experiences and promote a deeper understanding of the natural world [5, 11, 12]. Visitors can access the preserve through the main entrance at 3906 Turkey Creek Road [2, 17]. Parking areas are available at Blue Hole, The Falls, and the Highland area [2]. The park drive is a one-way loop [2]. Note that during peak season, the park may restrict entrance due to capacity, and roadside parking is not permitted [2].

Popular Experiences near Turkey Creek Nature Preserve

Popular Hotels near Turkey Creek Nature Preserve

Select Currency