J.D. & Annie S. Hays Nature Preserve: A Natural Oasis
Discover Alabama's natural beauty at Hays Nature Preserve: hiking, wildlife, and educational programs await in this 538-acre outdoor haven.
Escape to the J.D. & Annie S. Hays Nature Preserve in Owens Cross Roads, Alabama, a 538-acre sanctuary offering diverse ecosystems and recreational activities. Founded on the vision of J.D. and Annie Wade Hays, the preserve features trails, wildlife viewing, and educational programs, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts of all ages [1, 6].
A brief summary to J.D. & Annie S. Hays Nature Preserve
- 7161 US-431, Owens Cross Roads, Alabama, 35763, US
- +1256-427-5116
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-8 pm
- Thursday 6 am-8 pm
- Friday 6 am-8 pm
- Saturday 6 am-8 pm
- Sunday 6 am-8 pm
Local tips
- Bring binoculars for optimal birdwatching, especially during spring and winter [1].
- Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the extensive trail system [3].
- Visit the Terrame Natural Playground for a unique family-friendly experience [1].
- Check the preserve's website for upcoming events and guided tours [1].
Getting There
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Driving
From central Huntsville, take US-431 North towards Owens Cross Roads. Continue on US-431 for approximately 15 miles. The entrance to J.D. & Annie S. Hays Nature Preserve will be on your right. Parking is available on-site [1]. Parking is free. Note that parking may be limited during special events [1].
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From anywhere in the Huntsville/Owens Cross Roads area, a taxi or ride-share service (Uber/Lyft) can provide direct transport to J.D. & Annie S. Hays Nature Preserve. The destination address is 7161 US-431, Owens Cross Roads, AL 35763. Expect to pay around $20-$30 for a one-way trip from downtown Huntsville [1]. Confirm the fare with the driver or through the app before starting your journey.
Discover more about J.D. & Annie S. Hays Nature Preserve
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lost Sink Falls
5.7 km
Discover the enchanting Lost Sink Falls at Keel Mountain Preserve, a hidden gem near Huntsville with a unique disappearing waterfall.
Cambron Covered Bridge
6.6 km
A scenic covered bridge on Green Mountain in Huntsville, Alabama, offering a tranquil escape and picturesque views within a natural setting.
Keel Mountain
12.0 km
Explore Keel Mountain in Alabama: Hike to Lost Sink Falls, discover rare plants, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Cumberland Plateau.
Flow Huntsville Trampoline Park
12.7 km
Experience high-flying fun for all ages at Huntsville's premier trampoline park, featuring a wide range of aerial activities and attractions.
Tennessee Valley Civil War Round Table
13.1 km
Discover the fascinating world of the Civil War at the Tennessee Valley Civil War Round Table, where history comes alive through engaging discussions and events.
Moore-Rhett House
13.4 km
Discover the historic charm of the Moore-Rhett House in Huntsville's Twickenham District, where history and architecture come alive.
Lowe Mansion
13.6 km
Discover the Lowe Mansion in Huntsville's Twickenham Historic District, a beautiful example of Chateauesque Revival architecture with a rich history.
Central School Historical Marker
13.7 km
Explore Huntsville's Central School Historical Marker, a tribute to the city's educational past and a gateway to its rich history.
Harrison Brothers Hardware
14.0 km
Experience Huntsville's history at Harrison Brothers Hardware, a unique gift shop with local art, vintage wares, and old-fashioned charm since 1879.
Schiffman Building
14.0 km
Explore the historic Schiffman Building in Huntsville's Eastside Square, a unique example of Richardsonian Romanesque architecture with a rich past.
Five Points Historic District
14.0 km
Explore Huntsville's Five Points Historic District: a charming blend of Victorian architecture and vibrant community life in a pedestrian-friendly neighborhood.
Big Spring Park East
14.1 km
Discover Huntsville's birthplace: a vibrant park with historical charm, natural beauty, and international treasures in the heart of downtown.
Big Spring International Park
14.1 km
Discover Huntsville's birthplace at Big Spring International Park, a serene downtown oasis with international charm and historical significance.
Alabama Historical Marker
14.1 km
Explore Huntsville's past at this historical marker, one of many that tell the stories of the city and Madison County.
Donegan Block
14.1 km
Explore Huntsville's history at the Donegan Block, a landmark of 19th-century Italianate architecture on the historic Courthouse Square.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Farbman Halloween House
1.2 km
Experience the magic of Halloween at the Farbman Halloween House, a spooky and delightful attraction in Owens Cross Roads, Alabama.
Hampton Cove Waterfall
2.0 km
Discover a hidden gem in Owens Cross Roads, Alabama: Hampton Cove Waterfall, where tranquil beauty meets accessible nature near Huntsville.
Land Trust of North Alabama: Blevins Gap Nature Preserve
4.3 km
Explore scenic trails, witness stunning sunsets, and discover diverse ecosystems in this 1,086-acre urban oasis in Huntsville, Alabama.
Blevins Gap Nature Preserve
4.4 km
Explore scenic trails, diverse landscapes, and breathtaking valley views at Huntsville's Blevins Gap Nature Preserve. A natural oasis minutes from the city.
Aldridge Creek Greenway
6.2 km
Explore Huntsville's natural beauty on this 6.5-mile paved greenway, perfect for walking, running, and biking along scenic Aldridge Creek.
Madison County Nature Trail
6.5 km
Discover a tranquil escape at Madison County Nature Trail in Huntsville: Hike around Sky Lake, explore a covered bridge and historic cabin.
Green Mountain South
6.7 km
Explore scenic trails, waterfalls, and historical sites at this 818-acre nature preserve in Huntsville, offering a refreshing escape from city life.
Jones Farm Park
7.7 km
Discover a peaceful retreat in Huntsville's Jones Farm Park: scenic trails, picnic spots, and a connection to nature for all ages.
The Big Cat Creek Tract
8.8 km
Discover a peaceful retreat at Big Cat Creek Tract in Brownsboro, AL, with scenic trails and diverse ecosystems for nature lovers near Huntsville.
Burritt Nature Trails
9.7 km
Explore scenic trails, historic coal mines, and breathtaking views at Burritt Nature Trails, a mountaintop oasis in Huntsville, Alabama.
Burritt on the Mountain
10.1 km
Explore regional history, unique architecture, and scenic trails at this mountaintop museum in Huntsville, Alabama.
Joel Eddins House
10.1 km
Discover Alabama's oldest documented building, the Joel Eddins House, a window into the lives of 19th-century settlers, located at Burritt on the Mountain.
Monte Sano Giant Cross (74 ft.)
10.3 km
Visit the iconic Monte Sano Giant Cross in Huntsville, AL, for breathtaking views and a symbol of unity, faith, and community spirit.
Trough Springs Trail
10.3 km
Hike through history on Monte Sano Mountain, where a natural spring tells tales of Native Americans, pioneers, and the Civil War's end in North Alabama.
Land Trust of North Alabama: Monte Sano Nature Preserve South Trailhead
10.4 km
Explore over 24 miles of trails, discover historical sites, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Monte Sano Mountain, minutes from downtown Huntsville.
Essential places to dine
Nick's Ristorante
6.2 km
Experience the finest Northern Italian cuisine at Nick's Ristorante in Huntsville—where seafood and steak meet elegance.
Mellow Mushroom Huntsville South
6.4 km
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Peppered Pig
7.7 km
Experience the ultimate burger delight at Peppered Pig in Huntsville, AL – where flavor meets fun!
Flight Plan Wine And Tapas
7.8 km
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Walton's Southern Table
10.2 km
Experience authentic Southern cuisine at Walton's Southern Table in Huntsville—where every bite tells a story.
Hildegard's German Cuisine
12.0 km
Experience the taste of Germany in Huntsville at Hildegard's German Cuisine—where authentic flavors and warm hospitality await.
Carrabba's Italian Grill
12.6 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Carrabba's Italian Grill in Huntsville – where every meal is a delicious journey through Italy.
City Cafe Diner
12.7 km
Discover Southern hospitality at City Cafe Diner in Huntsville – your go-to destination for classic American comfort food.
Char Restaurant
12.9 km
Experience culinary excellence at Char Restaurant in Huntsville; indulge in fine steaks and gourmet dishes in an elegant setting.
Farm Burger Huntsville
13.0 km
Discover delicious hamburgers crafted from locally sourced ingredients at Farm Burger Huntsville - where quality meets flavor.
STONE AGE KOREAN BBQ
13.2 km
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Ruth's Chris Steak House
13.3 km
Experience culinary excellence at Ruth's Chris Steak House in Huntsville - where sizzling steaks meet refined elegance.
Bad Daddy's Burger Bar
13.3 km
Experience gourmet burgers and a family-friendly atmosphere at Bad Daddy's Burger Bar in Huntsville - where flavor meets fun.
Cajun Steamer Bar & Grill
13.4 km
Savor authentic Cajun cuisine at Cajun Steamer Bar & Grill in Huntsville - where vibrant flavors meet Southern hospitality.
The Palate, by Chef Will
13.8 km
Experience flavorful health food at The Palate by Chef Will in Huntsville—where nutritious meets delicious.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Willowbrook Shoppe
6.5 km
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Alabama Goods - Huntsville
7.7 km
Explore the charm of Alabama Goods in Huntsville for unique local crafts, gourmet treats, and memorable souvenirs that embody the spirit of the South.
Top Key Market
8.5 km
Explore Top Key Market in Huntsville for unique antiques and vintage treasures, perfect for collectors and decor enthusiasts.
Firehouse Antiques & Collectibles
8.6 km
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The Cottage Collective
9.6 km
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Elite Boutique
10.4 km
Explore distinctive fashion at Elite Boutique in Huntsville, a treasure trove of unique clothing and accessories that capture local charm.
Weaver's Department Store
10.5 km
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Sweet Pineapple
10.8 km
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Country Camp Store, Monte Sano
11.8 km
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The Little Green Store and Gallery
11.8 km
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Rich Broke Boutique - Huntsville
12.6 km
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Build-A-Bear Workshop
12.6 km
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Huntsville Vintage
12.6 km
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The Southern Decorista
12.6 km
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Huntsville Hospital for Women & Children Gift Shop
12.6 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The 19th Hole Sports Lounge
8.5 km
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Thirsty Turtle
10.5 km
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Swamp Water Louie's
12.5 km
Experience the lively ambiance of Swamp Water Louie's, Huntsville's favorite bar for craft drinks, delicious snacks, and live music.
The Brass Tap
12.9 km
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Voodoo Lounge Bar & Grill
14.0 km
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Domaine South wine shop & wine bar
14.1 km
Experience a delightful selection of wines at Domaine South Wine Shop & Wine Bar, where every sip tells a story in the heart of Huntsville.
Jefferson Street Pub
14.1 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and delicious fare at Jefferson Street Pub, a top bar and pub in Huntsville, Alabama, where great times await.
Whiskey Bottom saloon
14.1 km
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Miller's Tavern
14.1 km
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Baker & Able
14.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Baker & Able, Huntsville's premier cocktail bar offering inventive drinks in a stylish setting.
SiP Fine Spirits & Cigar Lounge
14.2 km
Experience luxury and relaxation at SiP Fine Spirits & Cigar Lounge in Huntsville, where exquisite cocktails and premium cigars await.
Stella's Elixir Lounge
14.3 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Stella's Elixir Lounge, Huntsville's premier cocktail bar featuring unique drinks, dance floors, and a welcoming vibe for all.
Twilite Restaurant & Lounge
14.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Huntsville at Twilite Restaurant & Lounge, where exquisite cocktails and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.
The Nook
14.7 km
Experience the culinary charm of The Nook in Huntsville, Alabama, where delicious grill specialties meet a welcoming atmosphere.
Lone Goose Saloon
15.0 km
Discover Lone Goose Saloon in Huntsville, AL - a lively bar with craft drinks, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere perfect for tourists.
