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Madison County Nature Trail: A Green Mountain Escape

Discover a tranquil escape at Madison County Nature Trail in Huntsville: Hike around Sky Lake, explore a covered bridge and historic cabin, and immerse yourself in Green Mountain's beauty.

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Escape the city at the Madison County Nature Trail, a 72-acre park atop Green Mountain in Huntsville. Hike the 1.5-mile trail around Sky Lake, cross the Cambron Covered Bridge, and explore a historic log cabin. A tranquil retreat for nature lovers of all ages.

A brief summary to Madison County Nature Trail

  • Monday 7 am-4:30 pm
  • Tuesday 7 am-4:30 pm
  • Wednesday 7 am-4:30 pm
  • Thursday 7 am-4:30 pm
  • Friday 7 am-4:30 pm
  • Saturday 7 am-4:30 pm
  • Sunday 7 am-4:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the fall to witness the stunning foliage.
  • The trail is mostly flat and accessible, making it suitable for strollers with inflatable tires and wheelchairs.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy by the lake.
  • Children under 16 and seniors over 60 can fish Monday through Friday for a $3 fee.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From downtown Huntsville, take US-231 S/Governors Dr E. Continue on Governors Drive, then turn onto Bailey Cove Road SE. Follow Bailey Cove Road to Green Mountain Road SE. Turn left onto Green Mountain Road, then turn left onto Nature Trail Road SE. The entrance to the Madison County Nature Trail will be on your left. Parking is free and readily available.

  • Ride Share

    From downtown Huntsville, a ride-sharing service (Uber/Lyft) to the Madison County Nature Trail will cost approximately $20-$30. The drop-off location is at the main entrance of the park, where you can easily access the trails and lake.

Unlock the Best of Madison County Nature Trail

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Discover more about Madison County Nature Trail

The Madison County Nature Trail, also known as the Green Mountain Nature Trail, offers a peaceful retreat high above Huntsville on Green Mountain. This 72-acre park centers around the 17-acre Sky Lake, encircled by a 1.5-mile walking trail suitable for all skill levels. Along the trail, discover the picturesque Cambron Covered Bridge, a replica named for former Madison County Bridge Foreman, Joe E. Cambron. The bridge is a popular spot for photos, especially during the fall when the surrounding foliage is ablaze with color. Explore a piece of local history at the authentic log cabin, originally built around 1810 near New Market. The Herbert P. Walker family donated the cabin, which was then carefully reassembled at the Nature Trail, offering visitors a glimpse into the lives of early settlers. Other points of interest include a charming A-frame chapel, a moonshine still, and a spring house. The park also serves as a plant and wildlife sanctuary, recognized as a Treasure Forest by the Alabama Forestry Commission. The Madison County Nature Trail was constructed between 1974 and 1975, with funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the Madison County Commission. James Record, the Commission Chairman at the time, had a passion for nature and the environment, which was instrumental in the trail's creation.

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