Monte Sano State Park: Huntsville's Mountain Retreat
Discover Huntsville's natural escape: hiking, history, and breathtaking views atop Monte Sano, the 'Mountain of Health.'
Escape to Monte Sano State Park, a sprawling mountaintop retreat near Huntsville, Alabama. Known as the 'Mountain of Health,' this park offers stunning vistas, historic CCC-built structures, and over 20 miles of hiking and biking trails. It's a perfect destination for outdoor adventures and relaxation.
A brief summary to Monte Sano State Park
- 5105 SE Nolen Ave, Huntsville, Alabama, 35801, US
- +1256-534-3757
- Visit website
Local tips
- Bring cash for the park entrance fee. Credit cards are not accepted at the gate.
- Check the park's website for trail closures or special events before your visit.
- Wear appropriate footwear for hiking, as some trails can be rocky.
- Visit the Von Braun Astronomical Society's planetarium and observatory for a unique experience.
Getting There
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Driving
From downtown Huntsville, take Governors Drive (Highway 431) southeast towards Monte Sano Mountain. Follow Governors Drive to the top of the mountain, then turn left onto Monte Sano Boulevard. Continue for approximately 2.5 miles and turn right onto Nolen Avenue. Follow Nolen Avenue for 1 mile to reach the park entrance. The daily entrance fee is $5 per adult (ages 12+), $2 for children (ages 4-11) and seniors (62+). There is a $20 max fee for standard passenger vehicles. Parking is available in various lots throughout the park.
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Public Transport
While there is no direct public transportation to Monte Sano State Park, you can take a Huntsville city bus to a location on Governors Drive near the base of the mountain. From there, you could take a taxi or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) to the park entrance. Expect to pay around $15-$25 for the taxi/rideshare portion of the trip. Remember to factor in the park entrance fee of $5 per adult.
Discover more about Monte Sano State Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Five Points Historic District
5.2 km
Discover Huntsville's Five Points Historic District: A charming neighborhood showcasing Victorian and Craftsman architecture from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Moore-Rhett House
5.6 km
Discover Huntsville's history at the Moore-Rhett House, a landmark in the Twickenham Historic District with unique stories and architecture.
Lowe Mansion
5.6 km
Discover the Lowe Mansion in Huntsville's Twickenham Historic District, a beautifully preserved Chateauesque home with a rich history and community legacy.
Tennessee Valley Civil War Round Table
5.7 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.
Flint River Place
5.9 km
Discover the elegance of Alabama's past at Flint River Place, a beautifully preserved antebellum home offering a glimpse into the lives of early settlers and the region's rich history.
Schiffman Building
6.1 km
Discover the architectural beauty and rich history of the Schiffman Building, a Richardsonian Romanesque gem in Huntsville's Eastside Square.
Harrison Brothers Hardware
6.1 km
Experience Huntsville's history at Harrison Brothers Hardware, a unique gift shop showcasing local art and nostalgic charm since 1897.
Times Building
6.1 km
Discover the historic Times Building in Huntsville, an Art Deco masterpiece and landmark that reflects the city's rich past and architectural beauty.
Preservation Company
6.2 km
Discover architectural salvage, vintage furniture, and unique home décor at Huntsville's Preservation Company.
Donegan Block
6.2 km
Explore the Donegan Block in Huntsville, a historic landmark showcasing 19th-century Italianate architecture on Courthouse Square.
106 Jefferson Huntsville, Curio Collection by Hilton
6.3 km
Experience Huntsville's spirit at 106 Jefferson, a Curio Collection hotel offering luxurious accommodations, chef-driven dining, and a rooftop lounge with stunning city views in the heart of downtown.
Washington Park
6.3 km
Discover a tranquil escape in downtown Huntsville at Washington Park, offering green spaces, community events, and a peaceful retreat.
W. T. Hutchens Building
6.3 km
Explore the W. T. Hutchens Building in Huntsville, a landmark of Early Commercial architecture and a testament to the city's rich history, located in the heart of downtown.
Catacomb 435
6.3 km
Discover Huntsville's best-kept secret: Catacomb 435, an underground speakeasy with handcrafted cocktails and a vintage vibe.
AM Booth's Lumberyard
6.3 km
Eclectic taproom and restaurant in Huntsville's historic Meridian neighborhood, offering craft beers, diverse food, and live music in a rustic setting.
Unmissable attractions to see
Natural Well
0.8 km
Explore the depths of Natural Well in Huntsville, a geological marvel offering scenic hiking trails and a glimpse into the earth's hidden wonders.
Monte Sano Arts Festival
0.9 km
Experience art with a view at the Monte Sano Arts Festival, featuring local and regional artists in beautiful Monte Sano State Park.
North Alabama Japanese Garden
1.2 km
A serene Japanese garden in Huntsville's Monte Sano State Park, offering a tranquil escape and cultural experiences.
Monte Sano Main Trailhead Parking
1.2 km
Explore Monte Sano's trails from this convenient trailhead, offering hiking and biking adventures with stunning mountain views near Huntsville.
Monte Sano Mountain
1.3 km
Discover scenic trails, historic sites, and breathtaking views atop Huntsville's Monte Sano Mountain, a natural escape for all.
Monte Sano State Park Campground
1.4 km
Escape to Monte Sano State Park Campground: Huntsville's mountain retreat with camping, hiking, and breathtaking views.
Civilian Conservation Corps Museum & Memorial
1.6 km
Discover the history and legacy of the Civilian Conservation Corps at Monte Sano State Park in Huntsville, Alabama.
Monte Sano North Plateau
1.6 km
Explore scenic trails, historical landmarks, and breathtaking views at Monte Sano North Plateau, a mountain retreat near Huntsville, Alabama.
Wernher von Braun Planetarium
1.8 km
Explore the universe at Huntsville's Wernher von Braun Planetarium, featuring captivating shows and telescope viewings on Monte Sano Mountain.
Land Trust of North Alabama: Monte Sano Nature Preserve Cold Springs Trailhead
2.0 km
Discover Huntsville's natural beauty: hike scenic trails, explore historic sites, and escape to a tranquil mountain retreat.
The Big Cat Creek Tract
2.2 km
Discover a peaceful retreat at Big Cat Creek Tract in Brownsboro, AL, with scenic trails and diverse ecosystems for nature lovers near Huntsville.
Bree's Spring
2.3 km
Discover Bree's Spring in Huntsville: A tranquil hiking spot offering a refreshing natural escape and a connection to local nature.
Land Trust of North Alabama: Monte Sano Nature Preserve South Trailhead
2.3 km
Explore over 24 miles of trails, discover historical sites, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Monte Sano Mountain, minutes from downtown Huntsville.
Trough Springs Trail
2.3 km
Hike through history on Monte Sano Mountain, where a natural spring tells tales of Native Americans, pioneers, and the Civil War's end in North Alabama.
Burritt Nature Trails
2.4 km
Explore scenic trails, historic coal mines, and breathtaking views at Burritt Nature Trails, a mountaintop oasis in Huntsville, Alabama.
Essential places to dine
Boarhog's Barbeque
4.1 km
Discover mouthwatering smoked meats and delicious breakfast options at Boarhog's Barbeque in Huntsville, Alabama – a true taste of Southern hospitality.
Waffle House
4.6 km
Experience classic American breakfast delights at Waffle House in Huntsville - where comfort food meets friendly service around the clock.
1892 East Restaurant & Tavern
5.3 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at 1892 East Restaurant & Tavern in Huntsville - where great food meets vibrant atmosphere.
Hildegard's German Cuisine
5.7 km
Experience the taste of Germany in Huntsville at Hildegard's German Cuisine—where authentic flavors and warm hospitality await.
Ruth's Chris Steak House
6.0 km
Experience culinary excellence at Ruth's Chris Steak House in Huntsville - where sizzling steaks meet refined elegance.
Cajun Steamer Bar & Grill
6.1 km
Savor authentic Cajun cuisine at Cajun Steamer Bar & Grill in Huntsville - where vibrant flavors meet Southern hospitality.
Commerce Kitchen
6.1 km
Discover authentic Southern flavors at Commerce Kitchen in Huntsville - where tradition meets modern culinary art.
Cotton Row
6.1 km
Experience culinary excellence at Cotton Row in Huntsville—where innovative American cuisine meets sophisticated ambiance.
The Martin
6.2 km
Experience Huntsville's vibrant dining scene at The Martin – where delicious food meets lively sports entertainment!
The Poppy and Parliament
6.2 km
Discover the flavors of England at The Poppy and Parliament in Huntsville – where traditional meets contemporary in every bite.
Catch 25 Seafood & Brewery
6.2 km
Experience the best of seafood dining in Huntsville with fresh catches and handcrafted brews at Catch 25 Seafood & Brewery.
Mazzara's Vinoteca
6.2 km
Experience Southern hospitality blended with authentic Italian flavors at Mazzara's Vinoteca in Huntsville.
BeeZr
6.2 km
Discover the vibrant flavors at BeeZr in Huntsville – where local ingredients meet innovative cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.
The Bottle
6.2 km
Discover exquisite American cuisine at The Bottle in Huntsville, where every dish tells a story of local flavor and culinary innovation.
Furniture Factory Bar & Grill
6.3 km
Experience local flavors at the Furniture Factory Bar & Grill in Huntsville - where great food meets vibrant atmosphere!
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Country Camp Store, Monte Sano
1.3 km
Experience the essence of Alabama at Country Camp Store in Monte Sano – your one-stop shop for outdoor gear and local treasures.
The Little Green Store and Gallery
1.4 km
Explore The Little Green Store and Gallery in Huntsville, AL for unique gifts, local art, and a glimpse into the region's creative culture.
Junkabillies, LLC
4.5 km
Explore the charm of Junkabillies, LLC, where vintage antiques meet eclectic clothing in Huntsville, Alabama.
AL Christopher Gifts
5.3 km
Explore AL Christopher Gifts in Huntsville for unique treasures, local crafts, and delightful souvenirs that reflect the charm of Alabama.
Toy Place Downtown
5.3 km
Explore Huntsville's enchanting Toy Place Downtown, where imagination meets playfulness in a vibrant toy store experience.
Huntsville Hospital for Women & Children Gift Shop
5.4 km
Discover unique gifts and comforting essentials at the Huntsville Hospital for Women & Children Gift Shop, a special place for patients and visitors alike.
Mary's
5.6 km
Explore the enchanting world of beads and antiques at Mary's in Huntsville, Alabama - a treasure trove for every creative spirit.
Golden Griffin
5.8 km
Explore the Golden Griffin, Huntsville’s premier destination for unique interior decor and thoughtful gifts that capture the essence of Southern charm.
Lawren*s
5.8 km
Explore Lawren*s Gift Shop in Huntsville for unique, handcrafted treasures and local souvenirs that capture the spirit of Alabama.
Caley Paige
6.2 km
Explore Caley Paige in Huntsville for unique gifts and trendy clothing that capture the spirit of Alabama's local artistry.
Elitaire Boutique
6.2 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish treasures at Elitaire Boutique, Huntsville's charming shop for women's clothing, jewelry, and baby items.
Turkish Treasures
6.2 km
Explore the authentic charm of Turkish Treasures in Huntsville, a boutique offering unique crafts and cultural experiences in Alabama.
AM Collective
6.2 km
Explore AM Collective in Huntsville, AL: a unique gift shop and vintage clothing store offering local artistry and unforgettable shopping experiences.
Extraordinary
6.3 km
Experience Huntsville's local flair at Extraordinary, a boutique offering unique fashion, art, and home decor for all tastes.
Huntsville Gear
6.3 km
Discover unique souvenirs and locally crafted treasures at Huntsville Gear, the premier souvenir store in Huntsville, Alabama.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Copper Top Bar & Grill
6.1 km
Discover Copper Top Bar & Grill in Huntsville, Alabama – a delightful fusion of grilled flavors and vibrant nightlife awaits you.
Voodoo Lounge Bar & Grill
6.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Voodoo Lounge Bar & Grill in Huntsville, where great food meets live music in a welcoming atmosphere.
SiP Fine Spirits & Cigar Lounge
6.1 km
Experience luxury and relaxation at SiP Fine Spirits & Cigar Lounge in Huntsville, where exquisite cocktails and premium cigars await.
Whiskey Bottom saloon
6.2 km
Discover Whiskey Bottom Saloon, a vibrant bar in Huntsville, AL, offering a lively atmosphere, craft cocktails, and a taste of local nightlife.
Miller's Tavern
6.2 km
Discover Huntsville's vibrant nightlife at Miller's Tavern, where great drinks and karaoke await in a lively atmosphere.
Jefferson Street Pub
6.2 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and delicious fare at Jefferson Street Pub, a top bar and pub in Huntsville, Alabama, where great times await.
Domaine South wine shop & wine bar
6.2 km
Experience a delightful selection of wines at Domaine South Wine Shop & Wine Bar, where every sip tells a story in the heart of Huntsville.
Baker & Able
6.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Baker & Able, Huntsville's premier cocktail bar offering inventive drinks in a stylish setting.
Stella's Elixir Lounge
6.4 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Stella's Elixir Lounge, Huntsville's premier cocktail bar featuring unique drinks, dance floors, and a welcoming vibe for all.
Hickory House
6.5 km
Savor delicious grilled dishes and enjoy live karaoke at Hickory House, a must-visit restaurant in Huntsville, Alabama.
Thirsty Turtle
6.5 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious offerings of Thirsty Turtle, Huntsville's favorite deli and sports bar, perfect for food lovers and sports fans alike.
The Brass Tap
7.0 km
Explore The Brass Tap in Huntsville, a premier bar offering over 80 craft beers on tap, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere for all beer enthusiasts.
Bishop's Eastside Pub & Grill
7.3 km
Discover Bishop's Eastside Pub & Grill in Huntsville, AL, where delicious grilled dishes and a lively bar atmosphere create unforgettable dining experiences.
Jones & Jones | Sports Bar
7.4 km
Join the excitement at Jones & Jones Sports Bar in Huntsville, your go-to destination for sports, food, and fun.
SAFARI SPORTS LOUNGE
7.5 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Safari Sports Lounge, a top cocktail bar in Huntsville, AL, perfect for sports fans and social gatherings.
