Whether a Huntsville native or new to the Rocket City, it is helpful to know that there are a number of trails out there to explore. A little less known, though, are the unique historical facts and the progression of history at these locations. From the wooded trails of Monte Sano to the lovely scenery of Blevins Gap and even the easily walkable paths of Green Mountain, more is to be discovered than just the scenic views.
Monte Sano State Park
The very well-known and visited Monte Sano State Park features trails that can range from family-friendly to more challenging. What one may not realize is that one of the more difficult trails, the High Trail, passes by remnants of Monte Sano Hotel that was built in the late 1800’s. This past April welcomed the opening of the Tollgate Greenway, a 1.2-mile trail that is paved and provides an opportunity for those limited in their mobility, along with shaded areas and benches.
Blevins Gap Nature Preserve
Blevins Gap Nature Preserve is split into two sections, North and South of Cecil Ashburn Dr, and provides some of the most picturesque views of the city. A neat piece of history is that the Stevenson Trail is part of the first property acquired by the Land Trust of North Alabama after its founding in the 1980’s. Overall, these trails feature rocky terrain and quite a bit of uphill hiking, but the scenery at the end makes it all worth it.
Green Mountain Nature Preserve
Tucked away from the busyness of life and offering over 70 miles of trails is Green Mountain Nature Preserve. A mystery that has yet to be solved is that along some of the mountainsides can be found abandoned cars in very remote areas, with not a clue as to how they got there. Hiking trails can range from straightforward and easy to better suited for more experienced hikers.
Chapman Mountain Nature Preserve
Chapman Mountain Nature Preserve welcomes any type of hiker with the wide variety of trails at its location. A neat piece of local lore speculates that Moonshine Trail was an area used during Prohibition by moonshiners. Novice hikers looking for a great place to start can find that here, as many of the trails are less than a mile and don’t take quite as much time to explore.
Rainbow Mountain Preserve
Hidden away in Madison and providing incredible rock formations for climbing for all ages is Rainbow Mountain Preserve. A comical fact is that the early property owner was Elisha Rainbolt, which locals used to name the mountain, and over time the name inadvertently turned into “Rainbow” Mountain. While this area can be family-friendly, it is strongly advised to watch one’s footing and to consider wearing hiking shoes to avoid unnecessary falls.
There is something quite exciting about knowing a piece of history of the routes that one travels. Thanks to The Land Trust of North Alabama, these pieces of history, as well as information on the trails, were well laid out and easy to discover. No matter the location chosen, next time an adventure is had, make sure to try and learn something new.
