Sauta Cave National Wildlife Refuge: A Bat's Paradise
Witness the awe-inspiring bat emergence at Sauta Cave National Wildlife Refuge, a sanctuary for endangered bats and a haven for nature lovers in Alabama.
Sauta Cave National Wildlife Refuge, near Scottsboro, Alabama, is a 264-acre sanctuary established in the 1970s to protect endangered gray and Indiana bats [5, 7]. The cave is a crucial summer roosting and winter hibernaculum for these species, with up to 400,000 gray bats emerging at dusk during the warmer months, creating a spectacular sight [3, 6, 7]. While the cave itself is closed to the public to protect the bats, the refuge offers opportunities for wildlife observation, hiking, and photography [4, 5].
A brief summary to Sauta Cave National Wildlife Refuge
- Scottsboro, Alabama, 35769, US
- +1256-350-6639
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Arrive early for the bat emergence (June-August) to secure a good viewing spot on the platform [3, 6].
- Bring insect repellent, especially during warmer months, as mosquitoes can be prevalent [3].
- Wear a hat or rain gear, as bat guano droppings are common near the cave entrance [6].
- Bring a flashlight for navigating the path to the viewing platform at dusk [6].
Getting There
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Driving
Sauta Cave National Wildlife Refuge is located west of Scottsboro, Alabama [5]. From Scottsboro, travel west on US Highway 72 for approximately 6 miles [3, 18]. Look for a small turnout and parking area with a metal gate on the south side of the highway, between mile markers 130 and 131 [3, 13]. Park at the gate (do not block it) and walk approximately 100 yards down the paved road to the cave entrance and viewing platform [6]. There are no fees for visiting the refuge [18].
-
Taxi/Ride-Share
From Scottsboro, a taxi or ride-sharing service (like Uber) can provide transportation to Sauta Cave National Wildlife Refuge [11]. The drive is approximately 6 miles and should take around 10-15 minutes [3, 18]. Expect to pay around $20-$30 for a one-way trip [8, 11]. Be sure to arrange for a return trip in advance, as ride-sharing availability in the area may be limited [11].
Discover more about Sauta Cave National Wildlife Refuge
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Guntersville Lake
4.4 km
Experience the natural beauty and outdoor adventures at Guntersville Lake, Alabama's stunning recreational paradise.
Scottsboro-Jackson Heritage Center
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Discover Jackson County's history, art, and culture at the Scottsboro-Jackson Heritage Center. Explore exhibits, genealogy, and more!
Grant Lookout
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Experience breathtaking panoramic views from atop Gunter Mountain at Grant Lookout in Grant, Alabama. A must-see for nature lovers and photographers!
Keel Mountain
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The Gathering Place
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A serene event venue in Lake Guntersville State Park, blending natural beauty with recreational activities for memorable gatherings and peaceful escapes.
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Waffle House
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Peppered Pig
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Walton's Southern Table
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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