Chapman Mountain Nature Preserve

Chapman Mountain Nature Preserve, located in Huntsville, Alabama (zip code 35811), is a remarkable outdoor destination dedicated to preserving natural beauty and providing a diverse range of recreational opportunities. Spanning approximately 472 to 740 acres according to various sources, this preserve offers visitors a tranquil escape just east of Huntsville along Highway 72. It is a place where nature enthusiasts, families, and outdoor adventurers can immerse themselves in the serenity of well-maintained trails, abundant wildlife, and scenic landscapes.

The preserve features over 4.5 miles of multi-use trails that accommodate hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, making it accessible and enjoyable for people of all ages and skill levels. These trails wind through a variety of habitats, including lush hardwood forests, moss-covered rocks, and peaceful creek beds. Visitors can explore the Big Tree Tour on Terry Trail, which highlights some of the largest and most impressive trees on the property, offering an educational experience alongside physical activity. The Driskell Trail Loop provides a family-friendly one-mile circuit with charming bridges and shaded pine forests, while more challenging sections like parts of the Terry Trail offer varied terrain for those seeking a bit more adventure.

Chapman Mountain Nature Preserve is also a notable stop on the Alabama Birding Trail, attracting bird watchers year-round. A specially designed Bird Blind and Habitat, funded in part by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, allows visitors to observe a wide variety of bird species in a natural setting without disturbing them. This feature has become a favorite among local birders and migratory bird enthusiasts alike, making the preserve a hotspot for birdwatching activities.

In addition to its trails and birding opportunities, the preserve includes an 18-hole disc golf course set amidst scenic trees and low underbrush, providing a fun and engaging outdoor sport for visitors. The preserve’s pavilion and picnic areas offer comfortable spots for families and groups to relax and enjoy meals surrounded by nature. Fishing is permitted under specific conditions, primarily for children under 16 and adults over 60 on weekdays, adding another recreational option for visitors.

Chapman Mountain Nature Preserve is open daily from dawn to dusk, and access is free, encouraging community members and tourists to connect with nature without barriers. The preserve’s location just outside Huntsville makes it an easily accessible retreat for those looking to escape the urban environment and experience the natural beauty of North Alabama. Visitors can reach the preserve by turning off Highway 72 onto the paved entrance near Moores Mill Road, then following the gravel road to the parking area at the base of the hill.

Managed by the Land Trust of North Alabama, Chapman Mountain Nature Preserve is committed to conservation, education, and outdoor recreation. It serves as a vital green space that supports local wildlife, promotes environmental stewardship, and offers a peaceful setting for physical activity and relaxation. Whether you are an avid hiker, a casual stroller, a bird watcher, or someone seeking a scenic spot for family outings, Chapman Mountain Nature Preserve provides a welcoming environment to explore and appreciate the natural world.

For more information or to plan your visit, you can contact the preserve at +1 256-534-5263. Chapman Mountain Nature Preserve stands as a testament to the importance of preserving natural landscapes for public enjoyment and ecological health in the Huntsville area.