Monte Sano Nature Preserve: Huntsville's Mountain Escape
Discover Huntsville's natural side: hiking, biking, and historic trails await at Monte Sano Nature Preserve, a mountain retreat close to the city.
Escape to the tranquility of Monte Sano Nature Preserve, a sprawling urban oasis just a stone's throw from downtown Huntsville. With over 1,100 acres and 24 miles of trails, this preserve offers hiking, biking, and stunning natural beauty. Explore historic sites, diverse flora, and panoramic views, all managed by the Land Trust of North Alabama.
A brief summary to Land Trust of North Alabama: Monte Sano Nature Preserve
- 2442 Bankhead Pkwy NE, Huntsville, Alabama, 35801, US
- +1256-534-5263
- Visit website
Local tips
- Download a trail map from the Land Trust of North Alabama's website before you go, as trails can be interconnected and signage may not always be clear.
- Bring water and snacks, especially for longer hikes, as there are no concessions within the preserve.
- Wear appropriate footwear for hiking or trail running, as some trails can be rocky or steep.
- Be aware of changing weather conditions, especially during the spring and fall.
Getting There
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Driving
From downtown Huntsville, take Pratt Avenue east. Pratt Avenue will turn into Bankhead Parkway. Continue on Bankhead Parkway past Toll Gate Road. The Land Trust's hiker parking lot will be on the right, approximately 1/2 mile past Toll Gate Road. Parking is free and generally available, but can fill up on weekends.
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Public Transport
Huntsville Transit's Orbit bus system provides access to the vicinity of Monte Sano. From the Huntsville Transit Center, take the appropriate Orbit bus route that services the Monte Sano area; confirm the route and schedule on the Huntsville Transit website. From the bus stop, you may need to walk or bike the final distance to the preserve entrance. A one-way fare on Orbit is $1 for adults, and $0.50 for seniors (65+), students, and Medicare/Medicaid cardholders. Tickets can be purchased at the Huntsville Transit Center or via the Token Transit app.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From downtown Huntsville, a taxi or ride-share service (Uber/Lyft) to the Monte Sano Nature Preserve Bankhead Trailhead will cost approximately $18, depending on the distance and demand. The ride is approximately 5 miles. Taxi rates in Huntsville start at $4.30, plus $1.90 per kilometer. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver or through the ride-share app before starting your trip.
Discover more about Land Trust of North Alabama: Monte Sano Nature Preserve
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Five Points Historic District
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Unmissable attractions to see
Land Trust Trailhead Parking
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Bree's Spring
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Oak Park Trail
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Land Trust of North Alabama: Monte Sano Nature Preserve Oak Park Trailhead
0.7 km
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Land Trust of North Alabama: Monte Sano Nature Preserve Cleermont Trailhead
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Land Trust of North Alabama: Monte Sano Nature Preserve Cold Springs Trailhead
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Land Trust of North Alabama: Three Caves
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Natural Well
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Land Trust of North Alabama: Monte Sano Nature Preserve South Trailhead
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Monte Sano State Park
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Trough Springs Trail
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Monte Sano Arts Festival
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North Alabama Japanese Garden
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Monte Sano Giant Cross (74 ft.)
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