There are few things more satisfying than an evening spent watching the horizon fade into shades of pink, yellow, and indigo. Chasing the perfect Huntsville sunset is a great way to end a day with a moment of reflection and—if you love photography—a chance to capture one of nature’s most gorgeous shows.
As days begin to shorten and night falls sooner, it’s the best time of year to see a spectacular sunset and still make it home in time for supper.
If you’re looking for a place in Huntsville where you can catch a stunning symphony of hues in the sky, here are five places we suggest.
Monte Sano Mountain
Perhaps one of the most well-known locations for sky-watching, Monte Sano Mountain is sprinkled with spots where onlookers can enjoy a sunset. As you enter the park, make your way down a dirt path and past the picnic tables until you find a long stone wall that overlooks the city.
As night falls and the birds become silent, you’ll see the sky reflect its many colors against the treetops that surround you. Very slowly, car lights will become visible on the busy highways below. And finally—as the shades fade to deep blue—you’ll see stars come out one by one.
Tip: This spot can sometimes be a little windy. So, bring your jacket on chillier nights.
Burritt On The Mountain
Close by the overlook at Monte Sano State Park, you’ll find Burritt on the Mountain, a historic mansion and park where beautiful sunsets hide.
Burritt on the Mountain has a 3,000-square-foot overlook with a glass barrier where you can watch the skies change and see the many commuters traveling below.
Best of all, The View at Burritt hosts several events for the public with sips, snacks, and sunsets right at your fingertips.
Ditto Landing
Sunsets become even more special when viewed from the comfortable benches at Ditto Landing in South Huntsville.
Watch as the Tennessee River mirrors the skies above and sailboats and yachts cruise the waters. It’s a one-of-a-kind view encircled by campgrounds, boat docks, walking and biking trails.
Ditto Landing is also undergoing a master renovation plan that includes a proposed restaurant, mountain bike trails, zip line course, additional campgrounds, harbor expansions, and much more.
Tip: Bring a blanket and something to snack on when you find a viewing spot on the water’s edge.
U.S. Space & Rocket Center
Framed by the silhouette of the Saturn V, this sunset is best viewed from the parking lot of the Davidson Center at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center.
Many know the destination for its look into the history of space exploration, but it also boasts a striking sunset. Watching the moon rise over the rocket is a uniquely Huntsville experience that shouldn’t be missed. You’ll see the museum light up as the day fades away.
Tip: Pick a night to view the sunset with clouds. Every sunset is beautiful, but you’ll get some amazing photos with a few clouds in the mix.
Blevins Gap
Blevins Gap Nature Preserve is a 1086-acre natural oasis in South Huntsville minutes from residential and commercial hot spots. The preserve is divided into two sections with trails to the north and south of Cecil Ashburn Drive.
The main Blevins Gap Trailhead provides access to around 8 miles of woodland hiking trails on the 727-acre portion south of Cecil Ashburn and features Huntsville’s best spot to enjoy spectacular sunset valley views.
