Moss Rock Preserve: Hoover's Natural Oasis
Explore natural beauty in Hoover, Alabama, with hiking, climbing, and rare ecosystems at Moss Rock Preserve, a 349-acre urban oasis.
Moss Rock Preserve is a 349-acre nature preserve in Hoover, Alabama, offering a diverse landscape of forests, rock outcroppings, streams, and waterfalls. With over 12 miles of trails, it's a haven for hikers, climbers, and nature enthusiasts seeking an escape from the city.
A brief summary to Moss Rock Preserve
- 617 Preserve Way, Hoover, Alabama, 35226, US
- +1205-739-7141
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear sturdy shoes, as the trails can be rocky and uneven.
- Bring water, especially during warmer months, to stay hydrated on the trails.
- Visit after rainfall to see the waterfalls at their fullest.
- Be aware of your surroundings and follow posted rules to protect the preserve's natural environment.
Getting There
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Driving
From I-459, take Exit 10 (Highway 150) and head east towards Hoover. Turn left onto Preserve Parkway and continue for approximately 2 miles. Depending on your chosen trailhead, parking is available at the Boulder Field Trailhead (617 Preserve Pkwy), the Sulphur Springs Road Gravel Parking Lot (turn left onto Sulphur Springs Rd shortly after Preserve Pkwy intersection), or the Simmons Middle School Lower Parking Lot Trailhead (turn left onto Patton Chapel Rd). Parking is free at all trailheads.
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Ride-Sharing
From anywhere in Hoover or nearby Birmingham suburbs, using a taxi or ride-sharing service (Uber/Lyft) to Moss Rock Preserve is a convenient option. Input the address of your desired trailhead (Boulder Field Trailhead - 617 Preserve Pkwy, Sulphur Springs Trailhead - near 4600 Preserve Pkwy, or Simmons Middle School Trailhead - 1575 Patton Chapel Rd) as your destination. Expect to pay between $15-$30 depending on the distance and demand.
Discover more about Moss Rock Preserve
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Monte D'Oro Historical Marker
4.4 km
Discover the Monte D'Oro Historical Marker in Hoover, Alabama – a captivating glimpse into the rich history and cultural heritage of this vibrant community.
Hoist House at Redding Shaft Mine
7.6 km
Explore Birmingham's mining history at the Hoist House, a unique Spanish Mission-style structure in Red Mountain Park. Open daily, free admission.
Sloss Mines Hoist House
8.6 km
Explore the Sloss Mines Hoist House: A preserved relic of Birmingham's iron-producing past, offering a glimpse into the lives of the miners.
Birmingham Historic Touring Company
10.1 km
Explore Birmingham's history with guided tours that reveal the city’s rich heritage, iconic landmarks, and captivating stories from the past.
Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.’s ‘Letter From Birmingham Jail’ Marker
12.9 km
Explore the profound legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at the historic 'Letter from Birmingham Jail' Marker, a cornerstone of America's civil rights movement.
The Old Mill
13.4 km
Discover the historic charm of The Old Mill in Mountain Brook, a picturesque landmark offering a glimpse into Birmingham's past.
Five Points South Historical Marker
13.8 km
Discover the historical essence of Birmingham at Five Points South Historical Marker, a vibrant symbol of the city's rich past and cultural evolution.
Owen Plantation House
13.8 km
Explore the Owen Plantation House, a captivating historical landmark in Bessemer, Alabama, rich in Southern heritage and architectural beauty.
Historic Cahaba Pumping Station
13.8 km
Explore Birmingham's waterworks history at the Historic Cahaba Pumping Station, a museum and conference center showcasing the city's early engineering feats.
Dread River Distilling Company
14.8 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Dread River Distilling Company in Birmingham, AL, where craft spirits meet culinary excellence in a lively atmosphere.
The Jordan Home (Dr. Mortimer Jordan)
14.8 km
Discover the legacy of Dr. Mortimer Jordan at his historic Birmingham home, a stunning example of Greek Revival architecture in the heart of the charming Highland Park neighborhood.
Alabama Adventure & Splash Adventure
14.9 km
Discover endless fun at Alabama Adventure & Splash Adventure, where thrilling rides and water attractions await families and adventure seekers in Bessemer, Alabama.
Historic 4th Avenue Business District
15.1 km
Explore Birmingham's Historic 4th Avenue: A vibrant district showcasing Black entrepreneurship, culture, and resilience during segregation.
The Woodward Building
15.1 km
Discover Birmingham's first skyscraper, a landmark of the 'Heaviest Corner on Earth,' showcasing Chicago-style architecture and rich history.
Heaviest Corner On Earth
15.1 km
Explore Birmingham’s Heaviest Corner on Earth, where history and architectural beauty converge in the heart of Alabama.
Unmissable attractions to see
Ross Bridge Historical Park
2.7 km
Discover a Civil War-era bridge and scenic trails at Ross Bridge Historical Park in Hoover, Alabama. A blend of history and nature awaits!
Cahaba Riverchase Greenway Trailhead
3.4 km
A short, scenic paved trail in Hoover, AL, perfect for a relaxing walk along the Cahaba River and enjoying local wildlife.
Lover's Leap
3.7 km
Discover the enchanting Lover's Leap in Birmingham, Alabama, where breathtaking views meet captivating local history.
Chace Lake Park
3.8 km
Discover a serene escape in Hoover, Alabama at Chace Lake Park, offering scenic walking trails, fitness stations, and a picturesque lake for a refreshing outdoor experience.
Aldridge Gardens
4.5 km
Discover natural beauty, art, and community at Aldridge Gardens in Hoover, Alabama, featuring the iconic Snowflake Hydrangea and serene walking trails.
Georgetown Lake Park
4.7 km
Discover a peaceful retreat in Hoover, AL, with scenic trails, a tranquil lake, and family-friendly amenities at Georgetown Lake Park.
Hoover Met Stadium
4.9 km
A versatile stadium in Hoover, Alabama, hosting baseball, football, concerts, and the SEC Baseball Tournament.
Blue Ridge Nature Trail
5.0 km
Discover a peaceful escape in Hoover, Alabama, with a scenic walk through the lush greenery and diverse wildlife of the Blue Ridge Nature Trail.
McCallum Park
6.8 km
Escape to McCallum Park in Vestavia Hills: scenic trails, playground, and a tranquil creek for a refreshing outdoor experience and community connection.
Red Mountain Park
7.4 km
Explore Birmingham's Red Mountain Park: Hike scenic trails, discover mining history, and enjoy stunning city views in this urban oasis.
Oak Mountain State Fair
7.5 km
Experience classic fairground fun at Oak Mountain State Fair in Pelham, AL, with rides, games, food, and live entertainment.
Oak Mountain Amphitheatre
7.6 km
Alabama's premier outdoor music venue for decades, hosting legendary artists and creating unforgettable concert experiences before its closure in May 2025, leaving a lasting legacy in Birmingham's cultural scene.
Front Gate at Oak Mountain State Park
8.9 km
Discover Alabama's largest state park: outdoor adventures, scenic trails, and endless recreation await near Birmingham.
Byrd Park
9.1 km
A charming Vestavia Hills park with walking trails, playgrounds, and picnic spots, perfect for a relaxing day outdoors.
Pelham City Park
9.1 km
Pelham City Park: A vibrant community hub offering diverse recreational activities, sports facilities, and community events in the heart of Pelham, Alabama.
Essential places to dine
J. Alexander's Restaurant
3.2 km
Discover exquisite American cuisine at J. Alexander's Restaurant in Hoover - where tradition meets taste in every bite.
Walk-On's Sports Bistreaux - Stadium Trace Restaurant
3.3 km
Dive into delicious Southern flavors at Walk-On's Sports Bistreaux in Hoover—a sports lover's paradise with an inviting atmosphere.
Jim 'N Nick's Bar-B-Q
3.6 km
Experience the best of Southern barbecue at Jim 'N Nick's Bar-B-Q in Hoover—where every bite tells a story of tradition and flavor.
First Watch
4.0 km
Experience delightful breakfasts and healthy brunch options at First Watch in Hoover - perfect for families and food lovers alike.
Tre Luna Bar and Kitchen
4.1 km
Experience the fusion of Southern comfort food and Italian cuisine at Tre Luna Bar and Kitchen in Hoover—where every meal is a celebration.
Texas Roadhouse
7.2 km
Discover the best of American cuisine at Texas Roadhouse in Pelham - where flavorful steaks meet warm hospitality.
Margarita Grill
7.3 km
Discover flavorful Tex-Mex cuisine at Margarita Grill in Pelham – where vibrant dishes meet refreshing cocktails in a lively atmosphere.
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store
7.3 km
Savor the taste of traditional American cuisine at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store in Pelham—where Southern charm meets delicious comfort food.
Chick-fil-A
7.4 km
Discover Chick-fil-A in Pelham: where delicious chicken meets family-friendly dining in a vibrant atmosphere.
Creekside BBQ
7.7 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue at Creekside BBQ in Pelham - where every bite tells a story of tradition and flavor.
The Grille
9.2 km
Experience culinary excellence at The Grille in Pelham - where local flavors meet exceptional dining.
Gianmarco's Restaurant
9.3 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Gianmarco's Restaurant in Birmingham – where every meal feels like a celebration.
Bricktop's
12.2 km
Discover Bricktop's: A premier restaurant in Birmingham serving exquisite American cuisine in an elegant atmosphere perfect for any occasion.
Perry's Steakhouse & Grille
12.4 km
Experience culinary excellence at Perry's Steakhouse & Grille in Birmingham – where exquisite steaks meet exceptional service.
Culinary Dropout
12.5 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
World Market
2.2 km
Explore World Market in Hoover, Alabama, for a unique selection of global home decor, furniture, and gourmet delights, perfect for every taste and budget.
Academy Sports + Outdoors
2.5 km
Explore the outdoors with Academy Sports + Outdoors—your ultimate destination for sporting goods in Hoover, Alabama.
J&V clothes
2.8 km
Discover the latest trends at J&V Clothes in Birmingham, Alabama – your ultimate fashion destination for stylish clothing and accessories.
Riverchase Galleria
2.8 km
Discover the Riverchase Galleria: a premier shopping mall in Hoover, Alabama, with diverse stores, dining, and entertainment for every tourist.
Windsor
2.9 km
Discover the ultimate fashion haven at Windsor in Hoover, offering an exquisite collection of dresses, accessories, and more for every occasion.
Old Navy
2.9 km
Explore Old Navy in Hoover, a vibrant clothing store offering stylish and affordable fashion for the whole family in a welcoming environment.
Elegant Jewelers
2.9 km
Discover the exquisite craftsmanship and personalized service at Elegant Jewelers in Riverchase Galleria, Birmingham's premier destination for fine jewelry.
Shades Mountain Mercantile
3.7 km
Explore Shades Mountain Mercantile in Hoover, Alabama – a captivating antique store filled with unique vintage finds and timeless treasures.
On-A-Shoestring Trading Co
3.7 km
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The Beveled Edge
5.3 km
Explore The Beveled Edge in Birmingham, AL – a unique picture frame shop filled with collectibles and artistic treasures for art lovers.
Fun Stuff
7.9 km
Explore Fun Stuff Gift Shop in Vestavia Hills, Alabama, for unique gifts and quirky treasures that capture the essence of local charm and creativity.
At Your Imagination
8.1 km
Explore At Your Imagination, a whimsical gift shop in Vestavia Hills offering unique treasures that capture the spirit of Alabama.
Oak Mountain Hobbies & Toys - Drones, RC Cars, Trains, Parts & Service Shop
8.1 km
Discover a world of creativity and fun at Oak Mountain Hobbies & Toys, your ultimate destination for drones, RC cars, and model trains in Pelham, Alabama.
Gifted
8.1 km
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Myrtle Jane's South
8.3 km
Explore Myrtle Jane's South, an antique store in Pelham, Alabama, featuring unique vintage finds and charming home decor that tells a story.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Twin Peaks
2.3 km
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bar
2.4 km
Experience the lively bar culture in Hoover, Alabama, where great drinks and friendly faces come together for unforgettable nights.
Dave & Buster's Birmingham
3.0 km
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Gabriel's Cafe
3.7 km
Discover Gabriel's Cafe in Hoover, Alabama - your go-to bar for delicious drinks, fun events, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Perfect Note
4.2 km
Discover Perfect Note in Hoover, Alabama – a lively bar and restaurant offering delicious food, craft drinks, and enchanting live music.
Barrister's Tavern
4.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and karaoke fun at Barrister's Tavern, the ultimate bar in Vestavia Hills, Alabama.
Blue's Bourbon & Brews
5.7 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife and Southern charm of Blue's Bourbon & Brews in Pelham, Alabama, where great bourbon and live music await you.
Pub 261
5.7 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Pub 261 in Birmingham, where delicious food and refreshing drinks create the perfect local experience.
Ragtime Cafe
6.1 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of American cuisine at Ragtime Cafe, Birmingham's lively bar and restaurant perfect for casual dining and social gatherings.
The Chandelier Lounge
7.2 km
Discover the elegance of The Chandelier Lounge in Pelham, Alabama, where exquisite cocktails and stunning ambiance create unforgettable evenings.
Hooters
7.4 km
Experience the thrill of sports and savor delicious American cuisine at Hooters in Pelham, Alabama, a must-visit sports bar for all food lovers.
The Beer Hog
7.6 km
Explore craft beer culture at The Beer Hog in Pelham, Alabama, where a lively atmosphere meets an exceptional selection of brews.
Taco Mac Pelham
7.6 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and mouth-watering American cuisine at Taco Mac Pelham, your go-to sports bar in Alabama for wings and fun.
The Ridge Eat & Drink
7.8 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at The Ridge Eat & Drink in Vestavia Hills, Alabama, where delicious food meets a warm, inviting atmosphere.
StirCrazy
9.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at StirCrazy, a lively bar in Birmingham, Alabama, perfect for cocktails and good company.
