J.D. & Annie S. Hays Nature Preserve: A Natural Oasis
Explore Alabama's natural beauty: hiking, wildlife, and educational programs await at Hays Nature Preserve in Owens Cross Roads.
Escape to the J.D. & Annie S. Hays Nature Preserve in Owens Cross Roads, Alabama, a 538-acre sanctuary offering diverse ecosystems, over 10 miles of trails, and a range of outdoor activities. Founded on a vision of conservation and education, the preserve provides a refreshing retreat into nature for all ages.
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 optimal birdwatching, as the preserve is part of the North Alabama Birding Trail.
- Check the preserve's website for upcoming events like guided nature walks and the annual Earth Day Festival.
- Wear comfortable shoes for hiking the diverse trail system, ranging from paved greenways to unpaved forest paths.
- Visit the Terrame Natural Playground for a unique play experience for children of all ages and abilities.
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, though it may be limited during special events.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From anywhere in the Huntsville/Owens Cross Roads area, taxi or ride-share services (Uber/Lyft) can provide direct transport to the 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 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
Discover Huntsville's history at the Moore-Rhett House, a landmark in the Twickenham Historic District with unique stories and architecture.
Lowe Mansion
13.6 km
Discover the Lowe Mansion in Huntsville's Twickenham Historic District, a beautifully preserved Chateauesque home with a rich history and community legacy.
Central School Historical Marker
13.7 km
Explore Huntsville's Central School Historical Marker, a tribute to the city's educational past and a gateway to its rich history.
Harrison Brothers Hardware
14.0 km
Experience Huntsville's history at Harrison Brothers Hardware, a unique gift shop showcasing local art and nostalgic charm since 1897.
Schiffman Building
14.0 km
Discover the architectural beauty and rich history of the Schiffman Building, a Richardsonian Romanesque gem in Huntsville's Eastside Square.
Five Points Historic District
14.0 km
Discover Huntsville's Five Points Historic District: A charming neighborhood showcasing Victorian and Craftsman architecture from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Big Spring Park East
14.1 km
Discover Huntsville's historic heart at Big Spring Park East, a beautiful downtown park with international flair and tranquil waterside paths.
Big Spring International Park
14.1 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and vibrant community events at Big Spring International Park, a must-visit destination in Huntsville, Alabama.
Alabama Historical Marker
14.1 km
Explore Huntsville's vibrant past through its historical markers, each a portal to significant events and figures that shaped the Rocket City's unique heritage and Alabama's story.
Scenethat Tours
14.1 km
Explore Huntsville's rich history and culture with Scenethat Tours, offering engaging experiences and insightful journeys through the city's hidden gems.
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
Discover a hidden gem in Owens Cross Roads, Alabama: Hampton Cove Waterfall, where tranquil beauty meets accessible nature near Huntsville.
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
Explore scenic trails and breathtaking views at Blevins Gap Nature Preserve, a natural escape in Huntsville, Alabama. Open dawn to dusk daily.
Aldridge Creek Greenway
6.2 km
Explore Huntsville's natural beauty on this paved, accessible greenway 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
Explore scenic trails, waterfalls, and historical sites at this 818-acre nature preserve in Huntsville, offering a refreshing escape from city life.
Jones Farm Park
7.7 km
Escape to nature in Huntsville at Jones Farm Park, a peaceful retreat with walking trails, picnic spots, and a rich local history.
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
Explore scenic trails, historic coal mines, and breathtaking views at Burritt Nature Trails, a mountaintop oasis in Huntsville, Alabama.
Burritt on the Mountain
10.1 km
Discover history, nature, and breathtaking views at Huntsville's unique mountaintop museum and historic park.
Joel Eddins House
10.1 km
Discover Alabama's oldest documented building, the Joel Eddins House, a window into the lives of 19th-century settlers, located at Burritt on the Mountain.
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
Explore scenic trails, discover historical echoes, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Monte Sano Mountain near Huntsville.
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
Experience gourmet pizzas with unique flavors at Mellow Mushroom Huntsville South - where every bite is a celebration of taste.
Peppered Pig
7.7 km
Experience the ultimate burger delight at Peppered Pig in Huntsville, AL – where flavor meets fun!
Flight Plan Wine And Tapas
7.8 km
Discover the finest tapas and exceptional wines at Flight Plan Wine And Tapas in Huntsville - where every meal is an extraordinary experience.
Walton's Southern Table
10.2 km
Experience authentic Southern cuisine at Walton's Southern Table in Huntsville—where every bite tells a story.
Hildegard's German Cuisine
12.0 km
Experience the taste of Germany in Huntsville at Hildegard's German Cuisine—where authentic flavors and warm hospitality await.
Carrabba's Italian Grill
12.6 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Carrabba's Italian Grill in Huntsville – where every meal is a delicious journey through Italy.
City Cafe Diner
12.7 km
Discover Southern hospitality at City Cafe Diner in Huntsville – your go-to destination for classic American comfort food.
Char Restaurant
12.9 km
Experience culinary excellence at Char Restaurant in Huntsville; indulge in fine steaks and gourmet dishes in an elegant setting.
Farm Burger Huntsville
13.0 km
Discover delicious hamburgers crafted from locally sourced ingredients at Farm Burger Huntsville - where quality meets flavor.
STONE AGE KOREAN BBQ
13.2 km
Experience the rich flavors of Korea at Stone Age Korean BBQ - where grilling meets tradition in Huntsville.
Ruth's Chris Steak House
13.3 km
Experience culinary excellence at Ruth's Chris Steak House in Huntsville - where sizzling steaks meet refined elegance.
Bad Daddy's Burger Bar
13.3 km
Experience gourmet burgers and a family-friendly atmosphere at Bad Daddy's Burger Bar in Huntsville - where flavor meets fun.
Cajun Steamer Bar & Grill
13.4 km
Savor authentic Cajun cuisine at Cajun Steamer Bar & Grill in Huntsville - where vibrant flavors meet Southern hospitality.
The Palate, by Chef Will
13.8 km
Experience flavorful health food at The Palate by Chef Will in Huntsville—where nutritious meets delicious.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Willowbrook Shoppe
6.5 km
Explore the charm of Huntsville's Willowbrook Shoppe, where vintage treasures and unique antiques await every visitor.
Alabama Goods - Huntsville
7.7 km
Explore the charm of Alabama Goods in Huntsville for unique local crafts, gourmet treats, and memorable souvenirs that embody the spirit of the South.
Top Key Market
8.5 km
Explore Top Key Market in Huntsville for unique antiques and vintage treasures, perfect for collectors and decor enthusiasts.
Firehouse Antiques & Collectibles
8.6 km
Explore a treasure trove of antiques and collectibles at Firehouse Antiques & Collectibles in Huntsville, AL, where the past comes alive.
The Cottage Collective
9.6 km
Discover unique gifts and personalized treasures at The Cottage Collective, a charming gift shop in Huntsville, Alabama, perfect for all occasions.
Elite Boutique
10.4 km
Explore distinctive fashion at Elite Boutique in Huntsville, a treasure trove of unique clothing and accessories that capture local charm.
Weaver's Department Store
10.5 km
Explore Weaver's Department Store for unique gifts and treasures from Huntsville, AL's charming online gift shop, perfect for every celebration.
Sweet Pineapple
10.8 km
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Country Camp Store, Monte Sano
11.8 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
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
12.6 km
Explore Huntsville Vintage, the ultimate destination for unique vintage clothing and accessories in the heart of Alabama, perfect for fashion enthusiasts.
The Southern Decorista
12.6 km
Explore The Southern Decorista for unique gifts and trendy clothing in Huntsville, AL, embodying Southern charm and style.
Huntsville Hospital for Women & Children Gift Shop
12.6 km
Discover unique gifts and comforting essentials at the Huntsville Hospital for Women & Children Gift Shop, a special place for patients and visitors alike.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The 19th Hole Sports Lounge
8.5 km
Experience the thrill of live sports at The 19th Hole Sports Lounge, Huntsville's premier sports bar with delicious food and a lively atmosphere.
Thirsty Turtle
10.5 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.
Swamp Water Louie's
12.5 km
Experience the lively ambiance of Swamp Water Louie's, Huntsville's favorite bar for craft drinks, delicious snacks, and live music.
The Brass Tap
12.9 km
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Voodoo Lounge Bar & Grill
14.0 km
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Domaine South wine shop & wine bar
14.1 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.
Jefferson Street Pub
14.1 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and delicious fare at Jefferson Street Pub, a top bar and pub in Huntsville, Alabama, where great times await.
Whiskey Bottom saloon
14.1 km
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Miller's Tavern
14.1 km
Discover Huntsville's vibrant nightlife at Miller's Tavern, where great drinks and karaoke await in a lively atmosphere.
Baker & Able
14.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Baker & Able, Huntsville's premier cocktail bar offering inventive drinks in a stylish setting.
SiP Fine Spirits & Cigar Lounge
14.2 km
Experience luxury and relaxation at SiP Fine Spirits & Cigar Lounge in Huntsville, where exquisite cocktails and premium cigars await.
Stella's Elixir Lounge
14.3 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.
Twilite Restaurant & Lounge
14.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Huntsville at Twilite Restaurant & Lounge, where exquisite cocktails and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.
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
Discover Lone Goose Saloon in Huntsville, AL - a lively bar with craft drinks, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere perfect for tourists.
