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The Preserve


Highlights:

A short hike right in the middle of everything.... with a waterfall
Near:Birmingham, AL
Scenery:
Distance:0.49 miles round trip
Elevation Gain:300 ft
Hike Time:0.5 hours
Difficulty:Moderate
Trail Condition:Well maintained trail
HikeType:Out and Back


Summary: While I enjoy longer day hikes of 3 miles or more, I really enjoy hiking in The Preserve when I don't have much time. The hike is perfect for the entire family and offers beautiful views of giant rock formations and also has several small waterfalls. The area has numerous trails which run off the main trail. To get to the waterfall, simply enter the Trailhead and follow the main trail up the small rise to where you can peer over some of the rock formations. Follow the trail down past some of these large formations until you come to Hurricane Branch. Once you reach Hurricane Branch, just listen for the sounds of the falls and make sure to hike up the mountain alongside the falls to see the unique rock terrain. The Preserve is a 250 acre park located in the heart of one of Alabama's fastest growing areas. The area is off the beaten path and is only lightly used. Plan to spend time exploring the falls and rocks and make sure to bring the kids and a picnic lunch.
Trailhead: To reach the Trailhead, travel I-459 to Hwy 150. Follow Hwy 150 east to Sulphur Springs Road. Travel north on Sulphur Springs Road to Preserve Parkway on your right (east). The road is new and currently does not have a street sign, but is located directly across from the entrance to The Prince of Peace Catholic Church. Travel alon Preserve Parkway to the Trailhead on your left. The trailhead is not marked and consists of some steps up a hill which lead into the Preserve. (Lat:33.38055 Lon:-86.84138)
Trail Guides for The Preserve:
Best Seasons: Year-Round
User Groups: Hikers, Dogs,
Ranger Contact: City of Hoover (205) 444-7500
Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Jeff Johns, who has posted  15 other hikes on this site. To visit this reporters web site, click here.
Trail Reviews  Submit your own review
Reviewed by Mike on 1/23/2008
A great place right in the heart of Hoover! I discovered Moss Rock Preserve last year and visit frequently with my camera. I especially love the boulder field near the Preserve Parkway Trailhead and hiking there is pleasant no matter the season. There are also two other trailheads and there is definintely more than .5 miles of trails there!

Reviewed by sully on 10/11/2005
This is a perfect hike for those that do not have allot of time to travel. Its right in the city limits, but you can't believe that your not in some far distant wood. Spend 30 minutes to three hours.....its convenient.


Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site.
Keys: Alabama Hiking, Alabama Trails, Alabama Hikes, Jefferson County Hiking, Jefferson County Trails, Jefferson County Hikes

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