Madison County Nature Trail: A Tranquil Mountain Retreat
Discover a peaceful escape at Madison County Nature Trail: Hike around Sky Lake, explore a covered bridge and historic cabin, and immerse yourself in Green Mountain's beauty.
Escape the city bustle at the Madison County Nature Trail, a 72-acre park atop Green Mountain in Huntsville. This serene haven features a 1.5-mile trail encircling Sky Lake, a covered bridge, a historic log cabin, and diverse flora and fauna, offering a refreshing retreat for nature lovers of all ages.
A brief summary to Madison County Nature Trail
- 5000 Nature Trail Rd SE, Huntsville, Alabama, 35803, US
- +1256-883-9501
- Visit website
- Monday 7 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 7 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 7 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 7 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 7 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit during the spring to see the azaleas and dogwoods in bloom, or in the fall for the vibrant autumn colors.
- Wear comfortable shoes for the 1.5-mile walking trail around Sky Lake.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy at the picnic pavilion or outdoor picnic area.
- Take advantage of the photo opportunities at the Cambron Covered Bridge.
Getting There
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Driving
From downtown Huntsville, take Memorial Parkway (US-231/US-431) south. Exit onto Weatherly Road heading east. Turn right onto Bailey Cove Road, then left onto Green Mountain Road. Finally, turn right onto South Shawdee Road and drive approximately 1.3 miles to the park entrance on your right. There is ample free parking available directly in front of the trail.
Discover more about Madison County Nature Trail
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Cambron Covered Bridge
0.2 km
Experience the tranquility and beauty of the historic Cambron Covered Bridge in Huntsville, Alabama, a perfect blend of nature and heritage.
Holomon Grande
9.6 km
Explore the captivating history and natural beauty of Holomon Grande, a must-visit landmark in Laceys Spring, Alabama.
Lost Sink Falls
11.8 km
Discover the enchanting Lost Sink Falls at Keel Mountain Preserve, a hidden gem near Huntsville with a unique disappearing waterfall.
Flow Huntsville Trampoline Park
13.5 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
15.0 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
15.5 km
Discover Huntsville's history at the Moore-Rhett House, a landmark in the Twickenham Historic District with unique stories and architecture.
Lowe Mansion
15.7 km
Discover the Lowe Mansion in Huntsville's Twickenham Historic District, a beautifully preserved Chateauesque home with a rich history and community legacy.
Von Braun Center
15.8 km
Huntsville's premier entertainment destination, hosting concerts, conventions, and events in the heart of downtown.
Alabama Historical Marker
15.9 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.
Harrison Brothers Hardware
15.9 km
Experience Huntsville's history at Harrison Brothers Hardware, a unique gift shop showcasing local art and nostalgic charm since 1897.
Scenethat Tours
15.9 km
Explore Huntsville's rich history and culture with Scenethat Tours, offering engaging experiences and insightful journeys through the city's hidden gems.
Mark C. Smith Concert Hall
15.9 km
Huntsville's premier concert hall in the Von Braun Center, hosting Broadway, ballet, symphonies, and more in a luxurious setting.
Schiffman Building
15.9 km
Discover the architectural beauty and rich history of the Schiffman Building, a Richardsonian Romanesque gem in Huntsville's Eastside Square.
Campus No. 805
16.0 km
Experience Huntsville's vibrant entertainment scene at Campus No. 805, a repurposed school turned into a hub for dining, breweries, and events.
Keel Mountain
16.0 km
Explore Keel Mountain in Alabama: Hike to Lost Sink Falls, discover rare plants, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Cumberland Plateau.
Unmissable attractions to see
Green Mountain South
1.2 km
Explore scenic trails, waterfalls, and historical sites at this 818-acre nature preserve in Huntsville, offering a refreshing escape from city life.
Aldridge Creek Greenway
5.0 km
Explore Huntsville's natural beauty on this paved, accessible greenway perfect for walking, biking, and enjoying the outdoors.
The Farbman Halloween House
5.3 km
Experience Halloween magic at the Farbman Halloween House in Owens Cross Roads, a spooky spectacle for all ages!
Blevins Gap Nature Preserve
6.2 km
Explore scenic trails and breathtaking views at Blevins Gap Nature Preserve, a natural escape in Huntsville, Alabama. Open dawn to dusk daily.
J.D. & Annie S. Hays Nature Preserve
6.5 km
Explore diverse trails, spot wildlife, and connect with nature at this 538-acre preserve in Owens Cross Roads, Alabama. Open year-round!
Land Trust of North Alabama: Blevins Gap Nature Preserve
6.6 km
Explore scenic trails, witness stunning sunsets, and discover diverse ecosystems in this 1,086-acre urban oasis in Huntsville, Alabama.
Hampton Cove Waterfall
8.3 km
Discover a hidden gem in Owens Cross Roads, Alabama: Hampton Cove Waterfall, where tranquil beauty meets accessible nature near Huntsville.
Jones Farm Park
8.3 km
Discover a peaceful retreat in Huntsville's Jones Farm Park: scenic trails, picnic spots, and a connection to nature for all ages.
U.S. Veterans Memorial Museum
12.2 km
Honoring American veterans with a vast collection of military vehicles, artifacts, and personal stories from the Revolutionary War to today.
The Big Cat Creek Tract
13.0 km
Discover a peaceful natural escape at The Big Cat Creek Tract in Brownsboro, Alabama. Perfect for hiking and nature lovers!
Burritt Nature Trails
13.3 km
Explore scenic trails, historic coal mines, and breathtaking views at Burritt Nature Trails, a mountaintop oasis in Huntsville, Alabama.
Burritt on the Mountain
13.3 km
Discover history, nature, and breathtaking views at Huntsville's unique mountaintop museum and historic park.
Joel Eddins House
13.3 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.)
13.4 km
A towering symbol of faith and unity atop Monte Sano Mountain, offering breathtaking views of Huntsville and the Tennessee Valley.
Trough Springs Trail
13.7 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.
Essential places to dine
Nick's Ristorante
5.4 km
Experience the finest Northern Italian cuisine at Nick's Ristorante in Huntsville—where seafood and steak meet elegance.
Mellow Mushroom Huntsville South
8.4 km
Experience gourmet pizzas with unique flavors at Mellow Mushroom Huntsville South - where every bite is a celebration of taste.
Peppered Pig
8.8 km
Experience the ultimate burger delight at Peppered Pig in Huntsville, AL – where flavor meets fun!
Flight Plan Wine And Tapas
9.2 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
11.4 km
Experience authentic Southern cuisine at Walton's Southern Table in Huntsville—where every bite tells a story.
City Cafe Diner
13.6 km
Discover Southern hospitality at City Cafe Diner in Huntsville – your go-to destination for classic American comfort food.
Carrabba's Italian Grill
13.7 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Carrabba's Italian Grill in Huntsville – where every meal is a delicious journey through Italy.
Hildegard's German Cuisine
13.8 km
Experience the taste of Germany in Huntsville at Hildegard's German Cuisine—where authentic flavors and warm hospitality await.
Char Restaurant
14.1 km
Experience culinary excellence at Char Restaurant in Huntsville; indulge in fine steaks and gourmet dishes in an elegant setting.
Farm Burger Huntsville
14.3 km
Discover delicious hamburgers crafted from locally sourced ingredients at Farm Burger Huntsville - where quality meets flavor.
STONE AGE KOREAN BBQ
14.5 km
Experience the rich flavors of Korea at Stone Age Korean BBQ - where grilling meets tradition in Huntsville.
Bad Daddy's Burger Bar
14.6 km
Experience gourmet burgers and a family-friendly atmosphere at Bad Daddy's Burger Bar in Huntsville - where flavor meets fun.
The Palate, by Chef Will
14.9 km
Experience flavorful health food at The Palate by Chef Will in Huntsville—where nutritious meets delicious.
Pofta Buna International
14.9 km
Discover the rich flavors of international cuisine at Pofta Buna International - where every dish tells a story.
Ruth's Chris Steak House
15.0 km
Experience culinary excellence at Ruth's Chris Steak House in Huntsville - where sizzling steaks meet refined elegance.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Firehouse Antiques & Collectibles
6.5 km
Explore a treasure trove of antiques and collectibles at Firehouse Antiques & Collectibles in Huntsville, AL, where the past comes alive.
Top Key Market
6.9 km
Explore Top Key Market in Huntsville for unique antiques and vintage treasures, perfect for collectors and decor enthusiasts.
Willowbrook Shoppe
7.3 km
Explore the charm of Huntsville's Willowbrook Shoppe, where vintage treasures and unique antiques await every visitor.
Alabama Goods - Huntsville
9.1 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.
The Cottage Collective
9.2 km
Discover unique gifts and personalized treasures at The Cottage Collective, a charming gift shop in Huntsville, Alabama, perfect for all occasions.
Elite Boutique
11.7 km
Explore distinctive fashion at Elite Boutique in Huntsville, a treasure trove of unique clothing and accessories that capture local charm.
Sweet Pineapple
11.7 km
Explore Sweet Pineapple, the charming gift shop in Huntsville, AL, offering unique gifts and home goods perfect for every occasion.
Weaver's Department Store
11.7 km
Explore Weaver's Department Store for unique gifts and treasures from Huntsville, AL's charming online gift shop, perfect for every celebration.
Rich Broke Boutique - Huntsville
13.6 km
Explore Huntsville's vibrant fashion scene at Rich Broke Boutique, where unique styles meet exceptional customer service.
Dream Maker
13.7 km
Explore Dream Maker in Huntsville, AL—a magical gift shop and metaphysical supply store filled with unique treasures for spiritual seekers and gift givers.
Huntsville Vintage
13.7 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
13.7 km
Explore The Southern Decorista for unique gifts and trendy clothing in Huntsville, AL, embodying Southern charm and style.
Build-A-Bear Workshop
13.7 km
Explore the magical world of Build-A-Bear Workshop, where creativity meets cuddly fun for unforgettable family experiences in Huntsville, Alabama.
Parkway Place
13.7 km
Explore Parkway Place in Huntsville, Alabama – your ultimate shopping mall destination featuring a variety of stores and dining options for all tastes.
The Ninety Nine Boutique
13.8 km
Explore The Ninety Nine Boutique in Huntsville, AL—your destination for unique gifts and trendy women's clothing.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The 19th Hole Sports Lounge
6.8 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
11.7 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
12.6 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
14.1 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.
The Nook
15.3 km
Experience the culinary charm of The Nook in Huntsville, Alabama, where delicious grill specialties meet a welcoming atmosphere.
Twilite Restaurant & Lounge
15.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Huntsville at Twilite Restaurant & Lounge, where exquisite cocktails and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.
Voodoo Lounge Bar & Grill
15.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Voodoo Lounge Bar & Grill in Huntsville, where great food meets live music in a welcoming atmosphere.
Lone Goose Saloon
16.0 km
Discover Lone Goose Saloon in Huntsville, AL - a lively bar with craft drinks, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere perfect for tourists.
Domaine South wine shop & wine bar
16.0 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
16.1 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and delicious fare at Jefferson Street Pub, a top bar and pub in Huntsville, Alabama, where great times await.
Baker & Able
16.1 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Baker & Able, Huntsville's premier cocktail bar offering inventive drinks in a stylish setting.
Whiskey Bottom saloon
16.1 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
16.1 km
Discover Huntsville's vibrant nightlife at Miller's Tavern, where great drinks and karaoke await in a lively atmosphere.
Stella's Elixir Lounge
16.2 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.
Pourhouse Huntsville
16.2 km
Discover the charm of Pourhouse Huntsville, a cozy bar offering craft cocktails and a welcoming ambiance in the heart of Alabama.
