5 of the best spots to hike around Huntsville

hays nature preserve
Hays Nature preserve earns an honorable mention for our favorite places to hike. (McCarley Northway / Hville Blast)

With the leaves changing and the lingering summer heat fading, now is the perfect time to go for a hike around town. You can browse dozens of hiking guides on our website, and check out places to hike for October and September, or use this list as a jumping off point to plan your perfect day out.

1. Three Caves Loop

Photo of three caves at Land trust.
Three caves trail at Land Trust of North Alabama. (McCarley Northway / Hville Blast)

Despite this cave’s name, it’s actually not a natural structure. Rather, it once served as a limestone mine known as Hermitage Quarry. The property was donated to the Land Trust of North Alabama in 1989 and added 80 acres to the Monte Sano Nature Preserve.

Where: 901 Kennamer Dr SE, Huntsville, AL 35801

Blevins Gap Nature Preserve

Blevins Gap Nature Preserve, hikes
Check out these amazing views. (Sarah Gronberg / Hville Blast)
Blevins Gap Nature Preserve, hike

Divided into northern and southern pieces, Belvins Gap has a variety of trails from which to choose. With differing lengths and levels of difficultly, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at this scenic spot in South Huntsville.

Where: 3470 Cecil Ashburn Dr SE, Huntsville, AL 35802

Beaverdam Swamp Boardwalk

beaverdam
Who knew there was so much swamp in Madison County? (via Huntsville Adventurer)

As part of the Wheeler Wildlife Refuge, the Beaverdam Swamp Boardwalk is covered in butterflies and dragonflies. You might also see some wood ducks, wild turkeys and barred owls. The flat path is split between the boardwalk and gravel, and it’s about 1 mile long.

Where: AL Hwy 20, Madison, AL 35756

Point Mallard Trail

If Beaverdam Swap boardwalk wasn’t long enough for you, shoot across the river to Point Mallard Trail in Decatur. This 5.9 mile trail is considered a pretty easy route perfect for walking, running or mountain biking. It’s so popular among locals, it even has its own Facebook page made by community members.

Where: 2901 Point Mallard Cir SE, Decatur, AL 35601

Wildflower Trail

wildflower trail
Waterfalls at Wildflower Trail. (Photo via Huntsville Adventurer)

Wildflower trail has access to three different waterfalls. It’s 1.25 miles that follows a creek bed, and it’s only a short drive away from downtown Huntsville.

Where: 603 Cleermont Dr SE, Huntsville, AL 35801

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Audrey Johnson
Audrey Johnson
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