Monte Sano
When Dr. Wernher von Braun and his team of German rocket scientists came to Huntsville to work with the U.S. Army and then help NASA land a man on the moon, there was one area of town that appealed to their families most: the lush, natural beauty of Monte Sano Mountain.
The Mountain of Health
Today, Monte Sano is still a vast, secluded area where you can stretch your legs and enjoy the fresh air. The therapeutic benefits of Monte Sano (or “Mountain of Health” in Italian) are well documented. In the late 1800s, it was the site of Hotel Monte Sano, a health resort designed to take advantage of the higher altitude’s cool, fresh air. A historic plaque now marks the original spot and remaining foundation.
In the 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corps built Monte Sano State Park and now visitors can enjoy all sorts of relaxing – and exciting – activities all over the mountain, including:
- 22 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails
- Dozens of campground sites and rustic cabins
- An expansive 18-hole disc golf course
- The Von Braun Astronomical Society’s observatory and planetarium
Space to Relax… and Learn!
Many events are hosted at the Monte Sano Lodge, which is one of the most serene and picturesque meeting spots in town. On the south side of Monte Sano, you’ll find another contender for the best view of Huntsville, which you can see from the back patio of Burritt on the Mountain – Huntsville’s very first museum. This historical time capsule not only hosts black-tie affairs, weddings and other events, but also features a historic park that takes you back to rural life in 19th century Alabama.
What does the Land Trust of North Alabama have in common with Burritt? While Burritt is Huntsville's first museum, the Land Trust has the honor of being the first land trust in the state.
Families and individuals alike will enjoy a well-earned break from a busy lifestyle by taking the relaxing, winding roads up to Monte Sano Mountain.