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Mountain Longleaf National Wildlife Refuge: A Southern Appalachian Treasure

Explore Alabama's Mountain Longleaf National Wildlife Refuge: Hike scenic trails, discover rare species, and witness a unique ecosystem in the Appalachian foothills.

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Discover a unique blend of southern Appalachian and coastal plain ecosystems at Mountain Longleaf National Wildlife Refuge. This 9,016-acre sanctuary protects the endangered mountain longleaf pine ecosystem, offering hiking, wildlife viewing, and a peaceful retreat into nature near Anniston, Alabama [4, 6, 17].

A brief summary to Mountain Longleaf National Wildlife Refuge

Local tips

  • Wear mosquito repellent, especially during warmer months [8].
  • Bring water, sunscreen, and a map for hiking [3].
  • Be aware that hunting is allowed in the refuge; wearing hunter orange during hunting season is recommended [2, 7].
  • Stay on marked trails and heed warning signs due to ongoing UXO cleanup in certain areas [17].
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From I-20, take Exit 185 (Anniston/Oxford) and travel north on Highway 21 for 12 miles [3, 5]. Turn right on Summerall Gate Road, continue for approximately 2 miles, then bear right at the 'T' intersection onto Berman Road [3]. In .5 mile, turn right onto Bains Gap Road, which leads through the gates and into the refuge [3]. The refuge office is located in the former Fort McClellan cantonment area [5]. Parking is free. Note: Some roads within the refuge may be gravel and bumpy [7, 8].

  • Public Transport

    While there is no direct public transportation to Mountain Longleaf National Wildlife Refuge, you can take a local taxi or ride-sharing service from Anniston [1]. From the Anniston Amtrak station or a local hotel, a taxi or ride-share to the refuge entrance at Bains Gap Road will cost approximately $15-25. Confirm the fare before you begin your trip, as prices may vary [1].

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Discover more about Mountain Longleaf National Wildlife Refuge

Nestled in Calhoun County, Alabama, the Mountain Longleaf National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) is a 9,016-acre haven established in 2003 on the former grounds of Fort McClellan [2, 6, 17]. This unique refuge is dedicated to preserving and restoring the mountain longleaf pine ecosystem, a rare convergence of southern Appalachian and coastal plain environments [4, 17]. Once spanning vast stretches of the Southeast, longleaf pine forests have significantly dwindled due to logging and fire suppression [2, 17]. Mountain Longleaf NWR serves as a vital sanctuary for this endangered ecosystem, showcasing mature longleaf pines and a diverse array of plant and animal life [4, 17]. The refuge's location at the southern terminus of the Appalachian Mountains contributes to its rich biodiversity, providing refuge for species from both mountain and coastal regions [3, 10]. Visitors can explore over 18 miles of trails, offering opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing [2, 3]. Popular trails include the North Ridge Road Trail and the Smoky Mountain Trail [2, 9]. Birdwatchers can spot Bachman's Sparrows, Brown-headed Nuthatches, and various migratory birds [3, 17]. The refuge is also home to rare plants like the white fringeless orchid and the common juniper, the latter found nowhere else in Alabama [2, 17]. While approximately two-thirds of the refuge is currently closed to the public due to ongoing cleanup of unexploded ordnance (UXO) from its time as a military training base, the open areas offer stunning vistas, diverse landscapes, and a commitment to conservation [5, 8, 12].

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