Rainbow Mountain Nature Preserve: A Rocky Wonderland
Explore rocky trails, discover natural beauty, and enjoy outdoor adventures at Rainbow Mountain Nature Preserve in Madison, Alabama.
Rainbow Mountain Nature Preserve in Madison, Alabama, offers a scenic escape with rocky trails, diverse flora, and interesting geological formations like Balance Rock. Managed by the Land Trust of North Alabama, it's a popular spot for hiking and enjoying nature close to the city.
A brief summary to Rainbow Mountain Nature Preserve
- 230 Stoneway Trail, Madison, Alabama, 35758, US
- +1256-534-5263
- Visit website
- Monday 7 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-7 pm
- Thursday 7 am-7 pm
- Friday 7 am-7 pm
- Saturday 7 am-7 pm
- Sunday 7 am-7 pm
Local tips
- Wear sturdy shoes, as the trails are rocky and can be uneven.
- Bring water, especially during warmer months, as the trails can be strenuous.
- Download a trail map before you go, as cell service can be unreliable in some areas.
- Visit during the week to avoid weekend crowds.
- Check the Land Trust of North Alabama website for guided hikes and events.
Getting There
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Driving
From downtown Madison, drive north on Hughes Road. Turn left onto Stoneway Trail. Continue to the end of Stoneway Trail where you'll find the main parking area for Rainbow Mountain Nature Preserve. Parking is free. An alternate access point is located off Kensington Drive, with limited street parking available [2, 5].
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Walking
From residential areas near Stoneway Trail or Kensington Drive, follow the street to the trailheads [2, 5]. The main trailhead off Stoneway Trail has an information kiosk, pavilion, and portable restroom [2]. The Kensington Drive trailhead provides access to the Rainbolt Trail [5]. Both trailheads offer access to the preserve's network of trails.
Discover more about Rainbow Mountain Nature Preserve
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
SpringHill Suites Huntsville West/Research Park
3.9 km
Comfortable suites in Huntsville's Research Park, offering convenience to businesses and attractions. Enjoy modern amenities and a relaxing stay.
Cummings Research Park
4.3 km
Explore Cummings Research Park in Huntsville, a global hub for aerospace, defense, and technological innovation since 1962.
Reserve at Research Park
4.6 km
Discover the comfort of Reserve at Research Park, your ideal apartment rental in the heart of Huntsville, Alabama, close to attractions and local experiences.
Quality Inn & Suites Huntsville Research Park Area
4.6 km
Comfortable Huntsville hotel near Research Park, U.S. Space & Rocket Center, and the University of Alabama in Huntsville.
Pension Row Historical Marker
4.9 km
Discover Pension Row in Madison, AL: a historical landmark commemorating a vibrant African American community and its rich heritage.
Hyatt Place Huntsville / Research Park / Redstone
5.0 km
Comfortable and convenient hotel in Huntsville's Research Park, close to Redstone Arsenal and the U.S. Space & Rocket Center.
Hampton Inn & Suites Huntsville/Research Park Area
5.3 km
Experience comfort and convenience at Hampton Inn & Suites Huntsville, near Research Park, Bridge Street Town Centre, and Huntsville's top attractions.
Home2 Suites by Hilton Huntsville/Research Park Area, AL
5.3 km
Your home away from home in Huntsville's Research Park, offering modern suites and convenient access to top attractions and businesses.
Holiday Inn Research Park
5.5 km
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MidCity District
5.8 km
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Clarion Pointe Huntsville Research Park
6.7 km
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Space Camp
7.4 km
Experience astronaut training at Space Camp in Huntsville, AL. Ignite your passion for STEM with hands-on simulations and rocket launches.
Innovation Flats at Research Park
7.7 km
Discover modern comfort at Innovation Flats in Huntsville, Alabama, your ideal home base for exploring innovation and charm in the Rocket City.
Huntsville International Airport
10.8 km
Your gateway to Rocket City: Huntsville International Airport, where innovation takes flight and space exploration history comes alive.
Civil Axe Throwing - Huntsville
11.0 km
Experience the thrill of axe throwing in a safe, fun, and unique environment at Huntsville's premier axe-throwing venue.
Unmissable attractions to see
Let's Play Huntsville
4.1 km
Huntsville's ultimate indoor playground: slides, tunnels, ninja course & toddler zone for unforgettable space-age fun!
Fountain
5.2 km
A scenic fountain nestled in Huntsville's Bridge Street Town Centre, offering a relaxing respite amidst upscale shopping and entertainment.
Davidson Center for Space Exploration
7.0 km
Explore the wonders of space at the Davidson Center in Huntsville, home to the Saturn V rocket and a treasure trove of space exploration history.
The Overlook
7.1 km
Discover Huntsville's hidden gem: The Overlook. Breathtaking views, serene landscapes, and a perfect escape into nature's beauty.
The Grave of Miss Baker
7.2 km
Pay tribute to Miss Baker, the pioneering monkeynaut, at her gravesite in the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, Huntsville. A furry hero of space exploration.
U.S. Space & Rocket Center
7.2 km
Discover the U.S. Space & Rocket Center: A premier destination for space exploration enthusiasts and families in Huntsville, Alabama.
Garden Railway
9.0 km
Experience the charm of a miniature European village brought to life by G-scale trains at the Huntsville Botanical Garden's Garden Railway.
Huntsville Botanical Garden
9.1 km
Explore diverse gardens, tranquil trails, and natural beauty at Huntsville's 112-acre botanical sanctuary.
Purdy Butterfly House
9.1 km
Immerse yourself in a vibrant world of fluttering beauty at the Purdy Butterfly House, home to thousands of native butterflies.
H.C. Blake Art & History Center
12.0 km
Discover Huntsville's vibrant past and thriving art scene at the H.C. Blake Art & History Center, a cultural hub showcasing local history, art galleries, and community engagement in North Alabama.
Brahan Spring Park
12.1 km
Explore Huntsville's Brahan Spring Park: History, sports, splash pad, trails, and community events for year-round fun and relaxation.
Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment
12.1 km
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Huntsville/Madison County Visitor Center - Downtown
12.5 km
Your gateway to exploring Huntsville and Madison County: information, brochures, and expert advice for an unforgettable Rocket City experience.
Huntsville Depot Museum
12.5 km
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Thrasher Memorial Fountain
12.7 km
A serene escape in Huntsville's Big Spring International Park, the Thrasher Memorial Fountain offers tranquility and a connection to community.
Essential places to dine
Terranova's Huntsville
3.3 km
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Grille on Main
3.9 km
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Ol Heidelberg Cafe
4.7 km
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Big Bowl Thai Cuisine
4.7 km
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Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen
4.8 km
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Agave & Rye Huntsville
5.2 km
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Scene Restaurant & Lounge
5.2 km
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Bravo! Italian Kitchen
5.2 km
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Kona Grill - Huntsville
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Texas de Brazil - Huntsville
5.3 km
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Connors Steak & Seafood
5.3 km
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BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse
5.3 km
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Urban Cookhouse
5.3 km
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The Sage Grille
5.4 km
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Hopper's Bar & Grill
5.5 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Heart and Sole Sneaker Boutique
3.3 km
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The Plucky Peacock
4.2 km
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Bridge Street Town Centre
5.2 km
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Alumni Hall
5.2 km
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Brighton
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IT'SUGAR Huntsville
5.3 km
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Chico's
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Altar'd State Bridge Street
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Kendra Scott
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Trader Joe's
5.8 km
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HomeGoods
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Kid's Market
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Kim Wooo Design Studio & Boutique
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The Space Shop
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Paradies Shops
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Research Park Wine Merchants
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Vintage Cigar Lounge
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Jeff & Blues
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Dave & Buster's Huntsville
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4th Quarter REVAMP
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Ruggby's Food & Spirits
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Maggie Meyers Irish Pub
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The Hideaway Bar & Grille
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Shagnasty’s Grubbery & Pour House
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Discover the essence of Southern cuisine at Shagnasty’s Grubbery & Pour House, where every meal is a flavorful celebration in Huntsville, Alabama.
Hot Spot Bar & Grill
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Pourhouse Huntsville
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The Nook
10.9 km
Experience the culinary charm of The Nook in Huntsville, Alabama, where delicious grill specialties meet a welcoming atmosphere.
Lone Goose Saloon
11.0 km
Discover Lone Goose Saloon in Huntsville, AL - a lively bar with craft drinks, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere perfect for tourists.
708 Bar and Grille
11.2 km
A lively bar in Huntsville, AL, offering delicious food, refreshing drinks, and a friendly atmosphere for an unforgettable experience.
