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Chapman Mountain Nature Preserve: Huntsville's Outdoor Escape

Explore Huntsville's natural side: Hiking, biking, and history await at Chapman Mountain Nature Preserve. Open dawn to dusk, free access!

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Escape the city bustle at Chapman Mountain Nature Preserve, a 740-acre woodland retreat just east of Huntsville. Explore diverse trails for hiking, biking, and even horseback riding, or try your hand at disc golf. With a rich history and beautiful scenery, it's a perfect spot for nature lovers of all ages and abilities.

A brief summary to Chapman Mountain Nature Preserve

  • Huntsville, Alabama, 35811, US
  • Monday 7 am-7 pm
  • Tuesday 7 am-7 pm
  • Wednesday 7 am-7 pm
  • Thursday 7 am-7 pm
  • Friday 7 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 7 am-7 pm
  • Sunday 7 am-7 pm

Local tips

  • Bring bug spray, sunscreen, and water, especially during warmer months.
  • Wear long pants and comfortable walking shoes for hiking the trails.
  • Visit the Bird Blind & Habitat on Moonshine Trail for excellent birdwatching opportunities.
  • Check the Land Trust of North Alabama website for trail maps and preserve information.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Huntsville, travel east on Highway 72. After crossing Chapman Mountain, make a U-turn at the intersection of Moores Mill Road. Get into the far-right merge lane. Immediately after the silver guardrail ends, turn right onto the paved entrance to the preserve. Follow the gravel road to the parking area.

Unlock the Best of Chapman Mountain Nature Preserve

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Discover more about Chapman Mountain Nature Preserve

Chapman Mountain Nature Preserve, a 740-acre haven managed by the Land Trust of North Alabama, offers a refreshing escape just east of Huntsville. Opened in 2018, the preserve protects a diverse landscape that was once threatened by development, preserving its natural beauty for generations to come. The preserve boasts over 4.5 miles of trails catering to various interests and skill levels. Hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders can explore the well-maintained paths that wind through mature hardwoods, pine groves, and alongside a spring-fed ravine. The easy-to-moderate trails offer scenic views and a chance to connect with nature. History buffs will appreciate the remnants of the area's past, with abandoned objects and old farm roads hinting at its previous life as a working farm. Local lore also suggests that the Moonshine Trail, leading to a natural spring, may have been used by moonshiners during prohibition. Birdwatchers will find delight in the preserve's diverse avian population, especially at the Bird Blind & Habitat along Moonshine Trail. This area attracts a variety of bird species throughout the year, making it a stop on the Alabama Birding Trail. Whether you're seeking a peaceful hike, an adventurous bike ride, or a glimpse into the past, Chapman Mountain Nature Preserve offers a memorable outdoor experience for everyone.

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