J.D. & Annie S. Hays Nature Preserve: Huntsville's Natural Escape
Explore Huntsville's natural beauty: hiking trails, diverse wildlife, and educational programs await at Hays Nature Preserve in Owens Cross Roads.
The J.D. & Annie S. Hays Nature Preserve in Owens Cross Roads, Alabama, spans 538 acres of natural beauty. Donated by J.D. and Annie Hays in 1999, the preserve features diverse ecosystems, including forests, meadows, and wetlands along the Flint River. With over 10 miles of trails, it's a haven for hikers, bikers, and nature enthusiasts.
A brief summary to J.D. & Annie S. Hays Nature Preserve
- 7161 US-431, Owens Cross Roads, Alabama, 35763, US
- +1256-427-5116
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-8 pm
- Thursday 6 am-8 pm
- Friday 6 am-8 pm
- Saturday 6 am-8 pm
- Sunday 6 am-8 pm
Local tips
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching, as the preserve is part of the North Alabama Birding Trail.
- Wear comfortable shoes for hiking the extensive trail system.
- Visit the Terrame Natural Playground for a unique family-friendly experience.
- Check the preserve's website for upcoming events and educational programs.
Getting There
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Driving
From central Huntsville, take US-431 North towards Owens Cross Roads. Continue for approximately 15 miles; the preserve entrance will be on your right. Parking is available on-site. Parking may be limited during special events.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From anywhere in the Huntsville/Owens Cross Roads area, a taxi or ride-share service (Uber/Lyft) can provide direct transport to J.D. & Annie S. Hays Nature Preserve. The destination address is 7161 US-431, Owens Cross Roads, AL 35763. Expect to pay around $20-$30 for a one-way trip from downtown Huntsville. Confirm the fare with the driver or through the app before starting your journey.
Discover more about J.D. & Annie S. Hays Nature Preserve
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lost Sink Falls
5.7 km
Discover the enchanting Lost Sink Falls at Keel Mountain Preserve, a hidden gem near Huntsville with a unique disappearing waterfall.
Cambron Covered Bridge
6.6 km
Experience the tranquility and beauty of the historic Cambron Covered Bridge in Huntsville, Alabama, a perfect blend of nature and heritage.
Keel Mountain
12.0 km
Explore Keel Mountain in Alabama: Hike to Lost Sink Falls, discover rare plants, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Cumberland Plateau.
Flow Huntsville Trampoline Park
12.7 km
Huntsville's premier trampoline park with activities for all ages, including trampolines, ninja course, mini-golf, and arcade games!
Tennessee Valley Civil War Round Table
13.1 km
Discover the fascinating world of the Civil War at the Tennessee Valley Civil War Round Table, where history comes alive through engaging discussions and events.
Moore-Rhett House
13.4 km
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Lowe Mansion
13.6 km
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Central School Historical Marker
13.7 km
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Harrison Brothers Hardware
14.0 km
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Schiffman Building
14.0 km
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Five Points Historic District
14.0 km
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Big Spring Park East
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Big Spring International Park
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Alabama Historical Marker
14.1 km
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Scenethat Tours
14.1 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
The Farbman Halloween House
1.2 km
Experience Halloween magic at the Farbman Halloween House in Owens Cross Roads, a spooky spectacle for all ages!
Hampton Cove Waterfall
2.0 km
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Land Trust of North Alabama: Blevins Gap Nature Preserve
4.3 km
Explore scenic trails and breathtaking views at Blevins Gap Nature Preserve in Huntsville, Alabama. A natural escape managed by the Land Trust of North Alabama.
Blevins Gap Nature Preserve
4.4 km
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Aldridge Creek Greenway
6.2 km
Explore Huntsville's natural beauty on this scenic 6.5-mile paved trail, perfect for walking, biking, and enjoying the outdoors.
Madison County Nature Trail
6.5 km
Discover tranquility at Madison County Nature Trail in Huntsville, AL. Explore scenic trails, a serene lake, and historic landmarks on Green Mountain.
Green Mountain South
6.7 km
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Jones Farm Park
7.7 km
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The Big Cat Creek Tract
8.8 km
Discover a peaceful natural escape at The Big Cat Creek Tract in Brownsboro, Alabama. Perfect for hiking and nature lovers!
Burritt Nature Trails
9.7 km
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Burritt on the Mountain
10.1 km
Explore history, nature, and breathtaking views at Huntsville's unique open-air museum, Burritt on the Mountain.
Joel Eddins House
10.1 km
Step back in time at Alabama's oldest documented building, the Joel Eddins House, located within the scenic Burritt on the Mountain in Huntsville.
Monte Sano Giant Cross (74 ft.)
10.3 km
A towering symbol of faith and unity atop Monte Sano Mountain, offering breathtaking views of Huntsville and the Tennessee Valley.
Trough Springs Trail
10.3 km
Hike through history on Monte Sano's Trough Springs Trail, where a Civil War surrender marked the end of an era in North Alabama.
Land Trust of North Alabama: Monte Sano Nature Preserve South Trailhead
10.4 km
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Essential places to dine
Nick's Ristorante
6.2 km
Experience the finest Northern Italian cuisine at Nick's Ristorante in Huntsville—where seafood and steak meet elegance.
Mellow Mushroom Huntsville South
6.4 km
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Peppered Pig
7.7 km
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Flight Plan Wine And Tapas
7.8 km
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Walton's Southern Table
10.2 km
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Hildegard's German Cuisine
12.0 km
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Carrabba's Italian Grill
12.6 km
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City Cafe Diner
12.7 km
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Char Restaurant
12.9 km
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Farm Burger Huntsville
13.0 km
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STONE AGE KOREAN BBQ
13.2 km
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Ruth's Chris Steak House
13.3 km
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Bad Daddy's Burger Bar
13.3 km
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Cajun Steamer Bar & Grill
13.4 km
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The Palate, by Chef Will
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Willowbrook Shoppe
6.5 km
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Alabama Goods - Huntsville
7.7 km
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Top Key Market
8.5 km
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Firehouse Antiques & Collectibles
8.6 km
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The Cottage Collective
9.6 km
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Elite Boutique
10.4 km
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Weaver's Department Store
10.5 km
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Sweet Pineapple
10.8 km
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Country Camp Store, Monte Sano
11.8 km
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The Little Green Store and Gallery
11.8 km
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Rich Broke Boutique - Huntsville
12.6 km
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Build-A-Bear Workshop
12.6 km
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Huntsville Vintage
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The Southern Decorista
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Huntsville Hospital for Women & Children Gift Shop
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The 19th Hole Sports Lounge
8.5 km
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Thirsty Turtle
10.5 km
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Swamp Water Louie's
12.5 km
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The Brass Tap
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Voodoo Lounge Bar & Grill
14.0 km
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Domaine South wine shop & wine bar
14.1 km
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Jefferson Street Pub
14.1 km
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Whiskey Bottom saloon
14.1 km
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Miller's Tavern
14.1 km
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Baker & Able
14.2 km
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SiP Fine Spirits & Cigar Lounge
14.2 km
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Stella's Elixir Lounge
14.3 km
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Twilite Restaurant & Lounge
14.7 km
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The Nook
14.7 km
Experience the culinary charm of The Nook in Huntsville, Alabama, where delicious grill specialties meet a welcoming atmosphere.
Lone Goose Saloon
15.0 km
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