Things to Do in Monte Sano
A forested mountain with trails, history and views, ten minutes from downtown.
See top-rated activities »About Monte Sano
Monte Sano, Italian for mountain of health, is the long, flat-topped ridge that rises right behind downtown Huntsville. In the 1800s people came up for its cool air and a hotel catered to them; today it is mostly forest and quiet neighborhoods, and it holds some of the best hiking in north Alabama within a few minutes' drive of the city.
Monte Sano State Park covers about 2,140 acres along the top of the mountain, with roughly 20 miles of hiking trails and about 14 miles of trails for mountain bikes. Many of its stone and timber cabins were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, and a small museum tells their story. The park also has a campground, a Japanese garden and an overlook with views across the valley, and the Von Braun Astronomical Society runs a planetarium and observatory inside the park with public programs on some evenings. There is a small entrance fee.
Burritt on the Mountain, on the western brow of Monte Sano, is a historic park built around a hilltop mansion with sweeping views over Huntsville. Its grounds include a collection of 19th-century farm buildings, a barnyard with animals and walking trails, and it hosts concerts and seasonal events such as the Round Top Folk Festival in November.
The Land Trust of North Alabama protects thousands more acres on and around the mountain, with free trails open to the public, including the Monte Sano Nature Preserve and the newer Tollgate Greenway. Trailheads fill up on pleasant weekends, so arrive early, carry water and watch for mountain bikers on shared trails. In September, the Monte Sano Art Festival brings more than a hundred artists to the state park. Fall color on the ridge usually peaks in late October or early November, and the overlooks are a favorite spot to watch the sunset over the city.
Don’t Miss
About 2,140 acres with roughly 20 miles of hiking trails, mountain-bike trails, CCC-built cabins, a Japanese garden and a valley overlook.
A hilltop mansion with views over the city, historic farm buildings, a barnyard and seasonal concerts.
Free public trails on Monte Sano and nearby ridges, including the Monte Sano Nature Preserve and Tollgate Greenway.
A September festival with more than 140 artists in the state park, run by Arts Huntsville.
Top-Rated Tours, Tickets & Activities in Monte Sano
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Get free trip quotes »Monte Sano — FAQ
How far is Monte Sano from downtown Huntsville?
The state park entrance is roughly ten to fifteen minutes' drive east of downtown, up a winding road to the top of the mountain.
Are the Land Trust trails free?
Yes. The Land Trust of North Alabama's preserves are free and open to the public during posted hours. Monte Sano State Park charges a small entrance fee.
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