2.7
(18)
51
hikers
00:47
3.12km
0m
Hiking
Explore Hays Nature Preserve on an easy 1.9-mile (3.1 km) hike, a route that takes about 47 minutes to complete. You will experience minimal elevation gain, just 13 feet (4 metres), as you wander through diverse landscapes. The trail winds through shady woods and along flowing waters, offering picturesque views. Keep an eye out for the confluence of Big Cove Creek and the Flint River, a notable landmark along your journey. This accessible path is perfect for a quick escape into nature.
Hays Nature Preserve is a public city green space, making your visit straightforward. You will find parking generally available at the trailhead, ensuring easy access to the paths. If you plan to bring your dog, remember to keep them on a leash no longer than 6 feet. Be aware that certain natural surface sections of the trail can become muddy following heavy rainfall. It is always a good idea to check local conditions before you head out, especially after wet weather.
This preserve is known for its rich natural environment, featuring bottomlands and swamps alongside its flowing waters. As you hike, you might spot the impressive Alabama state champion water tupelo tree, a unique feature of the area. Wildlife is abundant here; watch for herons, deer, and even river otters as you immerse yourself in this vibrant ecosystem.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Waypoints
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
3.10 km
< 100 m
Surfaces
1.31 km
104 m
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Elevation
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This route was planned by komoot.
Hays Nature Preserve is a Huntsville city green space, and parking is generally available at designated trailheads. The preserve is designed for public use, making access straightforward for visitors.
Yes, the preserve is dog-friendly! Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash that is 6 feet or shorter to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors and wildlife.
Spring and fall are ideal for hiking here, offering pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, including wildflowers. While beautiful year-round, some natural surface trails can become muddy after heavy rains, especially in the bottomlands, so consider drier periods or be prepared for wet conditions.
No, Hays Nature Preserve is a public city green space in Huntsville, and there are no permits or entrance fees required to access the trails.
The terrain is quite varied, offering a mix of natural surface trails, gravel roads, and paved greenways. You'll wind through shady woods, along flowing waters, and encounter bottomlands, swamps, and sloughs. There are occasional small hills and even a limestone cave to explore.
The preserve is rich in biodiversity and is part of the North Alabama Birding Trail. You might spot herons, deer, turtles, river otters, owls, woodpeckers, rabbits, and raccoons. It's an excellent spot for birdwatching and observing diverse wildlife.
Absolutely! You can see the confluence of Big Cove Creek and the Flint River, oxbow lakes, and a visible beaver dam. A unique highlight is the Alabama state champion water tupelo tree, along with other impressive 'monster' tupelo gum trees. There's also a small pond formed from a 'meander scar' of Big Cove Creek.
Yes, the trails are generally considered short, easy, and very family-friendly. The preserve also features the Terrame Natural Playground, an innovative play area built with natural elements that encourages imaginative play for children of all ages.
Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Big Cove Creek Greenway, the Big Cove Greenway, and the Flint River Greenway.
Beyond hiking, the preserve accommodates kayaking via a launch, mountain biking, and horseback riding on designated trails. It also hosts ecologically-themed events like Earth Day and offers guided birding hikes.
The preserve boasts an extensive network of over ten miles of trails and greenways. While there are options to lengthen or shorten your walk, a recommended introductory loop is approximately 1.4 miles, offering a good taste of the preserve's diverse scenery.