Monte Sano North Plateau: A Mountain Retreat with a Storied Past
Explore scenic trails, historical landmarks, and breathtaking views at Monte Sano North Plateau, a mountain retreat near Huntsville, Alabama.
Discover the scenic trails, historical landmarks, and breathtaking views atop Monte Sano North Plateau. Once a sought-after health retreat in the late 1800s, this mountain near Huntsville boasts a rich history and natural beauty, offering a unique blend of outdoor recreation and historical exploration.
A brief summary to Monte Sano North Plateau
- Bankhead Pkwy NE, Huntsville, Alabama, 35801, US
Local tips
- Bring cash for the park entrance fee.
- Check the Monte Sano State Park website for upcoming events, including guided hikes and seasonal festivals.
- Hike or bike the trails in the spring to see native azaleas in bloom, or in the fall for stunning foliage.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic overlooks.
- Stop by the Von Braun Astronomical Society’s planetarium and observatory for a unique stargazing experience.
Getting There
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Driving
From downtown Huntsville, take Governors Drive (Highway 431) east towards Monte Sano Mountain. Follow Governors Drive for approximately 4 miles, then turn left onto Monte Sano Boulevard. Continue for about 2.5 miles, then turn right onto Nolen Avenue SE, which leads directly into Monte Sano State Park. Follow the signs within the park to reach the North Plateau area. Expect to pay a daily entrance fee of $5 per adult (ages 12+), $2 for children (ages 4-11) and seniors (62+). Parking is available at the Hiker's Trailhead or near the Monte Sano Lodge.
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Public Transport
While public transportation directly to Monte Sano State Park is limited, you can take a Huntsville city bus to a nearby location along Governors Drive and then use a taxi or ride-sharing service (Uber/Lyft) to complete the journey to the park entrance on Nolen Avenue. The ride-sharing cost from a location on Governors Drive to the park entrance is approximately $15-$25. Upon entering the park, follow signs to the North Plateau area. Remember to factor in the park entrance fee of $5 per adult (ages 12+), $2 for children (ages 4-11) and seniors (62+). Cash is required for park entrance.
Discover more about Monte Sano North Plateau
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Flint River Place
4.3 km
Explore Flint River Place, a historic Greek Revival mansion near Huntsville, offering a glimpse into Alabama's antebellum past.
Central School Historical Marker
5.5 km
Explore Huntsville's Central School Historical Marker, a tribute to the city's educational past and a gateway to its rich history.
Five Points Historic District
6.0 km
Explore Huntsville's Five Points Historic District: a charming blend of Victorian architecture and vibrant community life in a pedestrian-friendly neighborhood.
Moore-Rhett House
6.6 km
Discover the historic charm of the Moore-Rhett House in Huntsville's Twickenham District, where history and architecture come alive.
Lowe Mansion
6.6 km
Discover the Lowe Mansion in Huntsville's Twickenham Historic District, a beautiful example of Chateauesque Revival architecture with a rich history.
Preservation Company
6.7 km
Discover architectural antiques, vintage furniture, and unique home décor at Preservation Company in Huntsville, a portal to the past and a celebration of sustainable craftsmanship.
Tennessee Valley Civil War Round Table
6.8 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.
Schiffman Building
7.0 km
Explore the historic Schiffman Building in Huntsville's Eastside Square, a unique example of Richardsonian Romanesque architecture with a rich past.
Times Building
7.0 km
Discover Huntsville's architectural gem, the Times Building: a historic Art Deco skyscraper embodying the city's vibrant past in the heart of downtown [3].
Harrison Brothers Hardware
7.0 km
Experience Huntsville's history at Harrison Brothers Hardware, a unique gift shop with local art, vintage wares, and old-fashioned charm since 1879.
AM Booth's Lumberyard
7.1 km
Experience Huntsville's unique charm at A.M. Booth's Lumberyard: Southern flavors, live music, and historic vibes in a revitalized lumberyard venue.
Donegan Block
7.1 km
Explore Huntsville's history at the Donegan Block, a landmark of 19th-century Italianate architecture on the historic Courthouse Square.
Washington Park
7.2 km
Escape to a tranquil downtown oasis in Huntsville's Washington Park, offering lush greenery and a calming atmosphere for an urban retreat.
106 Jefferson Huntsville, Curio Collection by Hilton
7.2 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.
Catacomb 435
7.2 km
Step back in time at Huntsville's hidden speakeasy, where bespoke cocktails and a 1920s vibe create an unforgettable underground experience.
Unmissable attractions to see
Civilian Conservation Corps Museum & Memorial
0.1 km
Discover the history and legacy of the Civilian Conservation Corps at Monte Sano State Park in Huntsville, Alabama.
Wernher von Braun Planetarium
0.3 km
Explore the universe at Huntsville's Wernher von Braun Planetarium, featuring captivating shows and telescope viewings on Monte Sano Mountain.
Monte Sano State Park Campground
0.3 km
Escape to Monte Sano State Park Campground: Huntsville's mountain retreat with camping, hiking, and breathtaking views.
Monte Sano Mountain
0.3 km
Discover scenic trails, historic sites, and breathtaking views atop Huntsville's Monte Sano Mountain, a natural escape for all.
Monte Sano Main Trailhead Parking
0.4 km
Explore Monte Sano's trails from this convenient trailhead, offering hiking and biking adventures with stunning mountain views near Huntsville.
North Alabama Japanese Garden
0.5 km
A serene Japanese garden in Huntsville's Monte Sano State Park, offering a tranquil escape and cultural experiences.
Monte Sano Arts Festival
0.7 km
Experience art with a view at the Monte Sano Arts Festival, featuring local and regional artists in beautiful Monte Sano State Park.
Monte Sano State Park
1.6 km
Explore Monte Sano State Park, a stunning natural oasis in Huntsville, AL, featuring scenic trails, rich wildlife, and breathtaking views for nature lovers.
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.
Natural Well
2.2 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.
Bree's Spring
2.6 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
3.1 km
Explore 24+ miles of trails, historical sites, and natural beauty at Huntsville's Monte Sano Nature Preserve. Hike, bike, and discover!
Land Trust Trailhead Parking
3.1 km
Explore Monte Sano's natural wonders: Hike, bike, and discover history at the Land Trust Trailhead Parking in Huntsville, Alabama.
Land Trust of North Alabama: Monte Sano Nature Preserve Oak Park Trailhead
3.6 km
Explore the trails of Monte Sano Nature Preserve from the accessible Oak Park Trailhead, perfect for hiking and biking adventures in Huntsville.
Oak Park Trail
3.6 km
Explore Oak Park Trail in Huntsville: A scenic 2.5-mile loop perfect for hiking and biking, with natural beauty and outdoor adventure at every turn.
Essential places to dine
Boarhog's Barbeque
2.7 km
Discover mouthwatering smoked meats and delicious breakfast options at Boarhog's Barbeque in Huntsville, Alabama – a true taste of Southern hospitality.
Waffle House
3.4 km
Experience classic American breakfast delights at Waffle House in Huntsville - where comfort food meets friendly service around the clock.
1892 East Restaurant & Tavern
6.0 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at 1892 East Restaurant & Tavern in Huntsville - where great food meets vibrant atmosphere.
Hildegard's German Cuisine
7.0 km
Experience the taste of Germany in Huntsville at Hildegard's German Cuisine—where authentic flavors and warm hospitality await.
Furniture Factory Bar & Grill
7.0 km
Experience local flavors at the Furniture Factory Bar & Grill in Huntsville - where great food meets vibrant atmosphere!
Supper Heroes
7.0 km
Discover the flavors of classic American comfort food at Supper Heroes in Huntsville - where delicious meets affordable.
Commerce Kitchen
7.0 km
Discover authentic Southern flavors at Commerce Kitchen in Huntsville - where tradition meets modern culinary art.
Catch 25 Seafood & Brewery
7.1 km
Experience the best of seafood dining in Huntsville with fresh catches and handcrafted brews at Catch 25 Seafood & Brewery.
The Martin
7.1 km
Experience Huntsville's vibrant dining scene at The Martin – where delicious food meets lively sports entertainment!
The Poppy and Parliament
7.1 km
Discover the flavors of England at The Poppy and Parliament in Huntsville – where traditional meets contemporary in every bite.
The Bottle
7.1 km
Discover exquisite American cuisine at The Bottle in Huntsville, where every dish tells a story of local flavor and culinary innovation.
Cotton Row
7.1 km
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BeeZr
7.1 km
Discover the vibrant flavors at BeeZr in Huntsville – where local ingredients meet innovative cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.
Ruth's Chris Steak House
7.1 km
Experience culinary excellence at Ruth's Chris Steak House in Huntsville - where sizzling steaks meet refined elegance.
Cajun Steamer Bar & Grill
7.2 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Country Camp Store, Monte Sano
0.3 km
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The Little Green Store and Gallery
2.3 km
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Junkabillies, LLC
3.0 km
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Ever After Marketplace
4.9 km
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Southern Trends
6.1 km
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AL Christopher Gifts
6.1 km
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Toy Place Downtown
6.1 km
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Mary's
6.3 km
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Huntsville Hospital for Women & Children Gift Shop
6.6 km
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Lawren*s
7.0 km
Explore Lawren*s Gift Shop in Huntsville for unique, handcrafted treasures and local souvenirs that capture the spirit of Alabama.
Golden Griffin
7.0 km
Explore the Golden Griffin, Huntsville’s premier destination for unique interior decor and thoughtful gifts that capture the essence of Southern charm.
Caley Paige
7.1 km
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Elitaire Boutique
7.1 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish treasures at Elitaire Boutique, Huntsville's charming shop for women's clothing, jewelry, and baby items.
AM Collective
7.2 km
Explore AM Collective in Huntsville, AL: a unique gift shop and vintage clothing store offering local artistry and unforgettable shopping experiences.
Turkish Treasures
7.2 km
Explore the authentic charm of Turkish Treasures in Huntsville, a boutique offering unique crafts and cultural experiences in Alabama.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bishop's Eastside Pub & Grill
6.1 km
Discover Bishop's Eastside Pub & Grill in Huntsville, AL, where delicious grilled dishes and a lively bar atmosphere create unforgettable dining experiences.
Copper Top Bar & Grill
6.6 km
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Hickory House
7.0 km
Savor delicious grilled dishes and enjoy live karaoke at Hickory House, a must-visit restaurant in Huntsville, Alabama.
SiP Fine Spirits & Cigar Lounge
7.0 km
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Miller's Tavern
7.1 km
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Whiskey Bottom saloon
7.1 km
Discover Whiskey Bottom Saloon, a vibrant bar in Huntsville, AL, offering a lively atmosphere, craft cocktails, and a taste of local nightlife.
Voodoo Lounge Bar & Grill
7.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Voodoo Lounge Bar & Grill in Huntsville, where great food meets live music in a welcoming atmosphere.
Jefferson Street Pub
7.1 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and delicious fare at Jefferson Street Pub, a top bar and pub in Huntsville, Alabama, where great times await.
Domaine South wine shop & wine bar
7.1 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.
Baker & Able
7.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Baker & Able, Huntsville's premier cocktail bar offering inventive drinks in a stylish setting.
Stella's Elixir Lounge
7.3 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.
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.
Jones & Jones | Sports Bar
7.8 km
Join the excitement at Jones & Jones Sports Bar in Huntsville, your go-to destination for sports, food, and fun.
Thirsty Turtle
8.1 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
8.3 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.
