Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve
An urban nature preserve of about 400 hectares northeast of the city, with trails through limestone quarries and iron mine ruins and views of the Birmingham skyline.
Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve protects the forest on the eastern section of the Red Mountain range. Of its roughly 22 km of trails, the most popular are the route to the old quarry and the Hawk's View lookout, where on clear days you can see downtown. The on-site nature center has local animal displays and children's activities. Admission is free, though donations are welcome. It is about a 15-minute drive from downtown. Trails can be slippery after rain, so sturdy non-slip shoes are recommended.
Opening hours
Tue–Sun about 08:00–17:00
Nearby sights
- Southern Museum of Flight
- Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark
- Pepper Place & Saturday Market
- Bethel Baptist Church
- Birmingham Botanical Gardens
- Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum
- Birmingham Zoo
- Birmingham Museum of Art