Moss Rock Preserve: Hoover's Natural Playground
Explore boulder fields, waterfalls, and scenic trails at this 349-acre nature preserve in the heart of Hoover, Alabama.
Escape the city within Hoover, Alabama at Moss Rock Preserve, a 349-acre nature preserve boasting boulder fields, waterfalls, and diverse hiking trails [2, 4, 10]. It's a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers seeking a tranquil retreat [4].
A brief summary to Moss Rock Preserve
- 617 Preserve Way, Hoover, Alabama, 35226, US
- +1205-739-7141
Local tips
- Bring water and wear appropriate footwear for hiking and climbing on uneven terrain.
- Explore the Boulder Field, a popular spot for rock climbing with routes for various skill levels [2, 5].
- Visit during the winter or rainy months to see the waterfalls at their fullest [4].
- Be aware of the preserve rules, including leash requirements for dogs and restrictions on alcohol and motorized vehicles [5, 10, 13, 15].
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 approximately 2 miles [4]. Depending on your chosen trailhead, 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 Preserve Pkwy intersection), or the Simmons Middle School Lower Parking Lot Trailhead (turn left onto Patton Chapel Rd) [3, 4]. Parking is free at all trailheads [4].
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Public Transport
Birmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA) bus routes 31 and 39 have stops along corridors near Moss Rock Preserve [4]. From the nearest bus stop, you may need to walk or use a ride-sharing service to reach the specific trailhead [4]. A single ride fare is $1.25 [4].
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From anywhere in Hoover or nearby Birmingham suburbs, using a taxi or 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 [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
Hoist House at Redding Shaft Mine
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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
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Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.’s ‘Letter From Birmingham Jail’ Marker
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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
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Five Points South Historical Marker
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Owen Plantation House
13.8 km
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Historic Cahaba Pumping Station
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Dread River Distilling Company
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The Jordan Home (Dr. Mortimer Jordan)
14.8 km
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Alabama Adventure & Splash Adventure
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Experience thrilling rides and refreshing water slides at Alabama Adventure & Splash Adventure in Bessemer, Alabama. A perfect family getaway!
Historic 4th Avenue Business District
15.1 km
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The Woodward Building
15.1 km
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Heaviest Corner On Earth
15.1 km
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Alabama Peanut Co.
15.1 km
Birmingham's oldest peanut shop, roasting and boiling unique flavors since 1907 on historic Morris Avenue. A taste of tradition!
McWane Science Center
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
Discover a serene escape at Blue Ridge Nature Trail in Hoover, AL, offering peaceful walks amidst lush greenery and diverse wildlife.
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
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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
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Culinary Dropout
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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
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Fun Stuff
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At Your Imagination
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Oak Mountain Hobbies & Toys - Drones, RC Cars, Trains, Parts & Service Shop
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Gifted
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Myrtle Jane's South
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Twin Peaks
2.3 km
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bar
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Dave & Buster's Birmingham
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Gabriel's Cafe
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Perfect Note
4.2 km
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Barrister's Tavern
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Blue's Bourbon & Brews
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Pub 261
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Ragtime Cafe
6.1 km
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The Chandelier Lounge
7.2 km
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Hooters
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The Beer Hog
7.6 km
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Taco Mac Pelham
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The Ridge Eat & Drink
7.8 km
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StirCrazy
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