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Monte Sano Nature Preserve: Cold Springs Trailhead

Discover Huntsville's natural beauty: hike scenic trails, explore historic sites, and escape to a tranquil mountain retreat.

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Escape to the tranquility of Monte Sano Nature Preserve via the Cold Springs Trailhead, a gateway to over 1,100 acres of natural beauty near downtown Huntsville. Explore diverse trails, discover historical remnants, and immerse yourself in the serene mountain landscape managed by the Land Trust of North Alabama.

A brief summary to Land Trust of North Alabama: Monte Sano Nature Preserve Cold Springs Trailhead

Local tips

  • Check the Land Trust of North Alabama website for trail maps and difficulty ratings before you go.
  • Wear appropriate footwear and clothing, and bring water, especially for longer hikes.
  • Visit in the spring to witness the vibrant display of native wildflowers.
  • Be aware of changing weather conditions, as the mountain can experience sudden shifts.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the intersection of Fearn Street SE and Nolen Avenue SE, walk east on Fearn Street SE for approximately 0.2 miles. The Cold Springs Trailhead will be on your left. This is a short walk from the surrounding residential area.

  • Driving

    From downtown Huntsville, head east on I-565. Take exit 19A onto US-431 N/ Governors Drive. Continue on Governors Drive, following signs for Monte Sano State Park. Turn left onto Monte Sano Boulevard. Continue for approximately 2 miles. Turn left onto Fearn Street SE. The Cold Springs Trailhead will be on your left. Parking is free but can be limited, especially on weekends. Consider carpooling or arriving early.

  • Ride-sharing

    A ride-share from downtown Huntsville to the Cold Springs Trailhead will cost approximately $15-25, depending on the time of day and demand. Provide the driver with the address: 150 Fearn St SE, Huntsville, AL 35801.

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Discover more about Land Trust of North Alabama: Monte Sano Nature Preserve Cold Springs Trailhead

The Cold Springs Trailhead provides access to the Monte Sano Nature Preserve, a sprawling urban oasis managed by the Land Trust of North Alabama. Encompassing over 1,100 acres on Monte Sano Mountain, just two miles from downtown Huntsville, the preserve offers over 24 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and nature walks. The Cold Springs Trailhead itself leads to the Cold Springs Trail, known for its natural spring nestled among limestone boulders. The preserve showcases diverse landscapes and unique geological features like karst formations and sinkholes. Keep an eye out for native wildflowers, especially in the spring, and relic plant species like the American Smoketree and Cumberland Rosinweed. Monte Sano, meaning "mountain of health" in Spanish, has a rich history as a health retreat. In the late 19th century, the Hotel Monte Sano attracted visitors seeking fresh air and natural springs. Though the hotel is gone, remnants of the Monte Sano Railway, which once carried visitors up the mountain, can still be found. The Land Trust of North Alabama was established in 1987 to protect the area from development, ensuring its preservation for future generations.

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