Monte Sano State Park: Huntsville's Mountain Retreat
Discover breathtaking views, historic charm, and outdoor adventures atop Huntsville's 'Mountain of Health' at Monte Sano State Park.
Monte Sano State Park, perched atop Monte Sano Mountain in Huntsville, Alabama, has drawn visitors seeking fresh air and stunning vistas for centuries [3, 4, 11]. The name, Spanish for 'mountain of health,' reflects its history as a 19th-century health retreat [3, 11, 14]. The park's 2,140 acres offer a diverse range of activities. Explore over 22 miles of hiking and biking trails suited for all skill levels, from easy strolls to challenging climbs [4, 6, 21]. Discover the remnants of the historic Hotel Monte Sano, a luxurious health resort that once drew visitors from afar [4, 11, 14]. Marvel at the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) structures built in the 1930s, including rustic cottages and the park lodge [2, 11, 24]. Enjoy a picnic with panoramic views, play a round of disc golf, or spend a night under the stars at the campground [3, 4, 5, 12]. The park also features a Japanese Garden, planetarium, and outdoor amphitheater [3, 12, 22]. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure, a peaceful retreat, or a glimpse into the past, Monte Sano State Park offers something for everyone [3, 21].
Local tips
- Bring cash for the park entrance fee, as it's cash only [15].
- Check the park's website for upcoming events, including planetarium shows and ranger programs [2, 3, 6].
- Wear comfortable shoes for hiking and bring water, especially during warmer months [3, 6].
- Consider visiting the Civilian Conservation Corps Museum to learn about the park's history [3, 22].
- Be aware that some trails are shared with mountain bikers; follow proper trail etiquette [3, 9, 10].
A brief summary to Monte Sano State Park
- 5105 SE Nolen Ave, Huntsville, Alabama, 35801, US
- +1256-534-3757
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
- Thursday 8 am-5 pm
- Friday 8 am-5 pm
- Saturday 8 am-5 pm
- Sunday 8 am-5 pm
Getting There
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Driving
From downtown Huntsville, take Governors Drive (Highway 431) up Monte Sano Mountain [5]. Turn left onto Monte Sano Boulevard and continue for 2.5 miles [5]. Turn right onto Nolen Avenue and follow it for one mile to the park entrance [5]. Parking is available throughout the park, including near the lodge, picnic areas, and trailheads [6, 12, 17]. Park entrance fees are $5 for adults (ages 12+), $2 for children (ages 4-11) and seniors (62+), and free for children 3 and under [2, 6, 7, 18].
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Public Transport
While there isn't a direct public transportation route to Monte Sano State Park, you can take a Huntsville Orbit bus to a nearby location and then use a ride-sharing service to complete the journey [1, 2]. Take the bus to a convenient transfer point, such as the Von Braun Center [12]. From there, a taxi or ride-share to the park entrance will cost approximately $15-$25. Confirm availability and pricing with the ride-sharing service beforehand.
Attractions Nearby to Monte Sano State Park
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Natural Well
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Monte Sano Arts Festival
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North Alabama Japanese Garden
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Monte Sano Main Trailhead Parking
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Monte Sano Mountain
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Monte Sano State Park Campground
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Civilian Conservation Corps Museum & Memorial
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Monte Sano North Plateau
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Wernher von Braun Planetarium
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Land Trust of North Alabama: Monte Sano Nature Preserve Cold Springs Trailhead
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The Big Cat Creek Tract
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Bree's Spring
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Land Trust of North Alabama: Monte Sano Nature Preserve South Trailhead
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Trough Springs Trail
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Burritt Nature Trails
Landmarks nearby to Monte Sano State Park
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Five Points Historic District
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Moore-Rhett House
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Lowe Mansion
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Tennessee Valley Civil War Round Table
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Flint River Place
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Schiffman Building
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Harrison Brothers Hardware
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Times Building
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Preservation Company
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Donegan Block
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106 Jefferson Huntsville, Curio Collection by Hilton
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Washington Park
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W. T. Hutchens Building
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Catacomb 435
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AM Booth's Lumberyard