Hike at Green Mountain Nature Preserve South

Green Mountain Nature Preserve offers families a chance to step back in time while exploring one of Huntsville's most intriguing natural spaces. This moderate hike along the Alum Hollow Trail leads to a historic rock shelter that once provided refuge for Native Americans and early travelers, as well as the picturesque Alum Falls. The trail winds through forest and terrain that tell stories of the people who walked these paths long before us, making it an excellent opportunity to blend outdoor adventure with a bit of local history. The hike covers 2.1 miles and takes around two hours, starting at the Alum Hollow Trailhead on South Shawdee Road. While most of the trail is relatively easy, there's a steep descent midway that leads down to the waterfall and rock overhang, so sturdy shoes with good traction are essential. This hike is best suited for kids ages 8 and up who are comfortable with uneven terrain and can handle a climb back uphill. Registration is required, and organizers will send cancellation notices by email if weather or trail conditions make the outing unsafe. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and maybe a walking stick for the steeper sections. The rock shelter and falls make excellent spots for a rest break and some exploration, and kids often find themselves fascinated by imagining who might have sought shelter under that same overhang hundreds of years ago.