The Land Trust offers more than 70 miles of free public trails for you to relax, get some exercise, and connect with nature. Eight Public Preserves in Madison County are open dawn to dusk daily for hiking, biking, and outdoor recreation. Select a nature preserve from the Locations list to download a trail map and find additional information for each property.
***For your safety and ours during COVID-19:***
A statement from Alabama Dept of Conservation and Natural Resources in regards to the State of Alabama’s stay-at-home order – “Outdoor recreation in Alabama is considered an essential activity in the Order of the State Health Officer that was issued on April 3, 2020. That means outdoors activities such as hunting, fishing, trail use, boating, and paddling can still be enjoyed by all Alabamians as long as groups are kept to 10 people or less and a consistent 6-foot distance between persons can be maintained.”
- Maintain a 6 foot distance from other people and leave any area where you cannot maintain appropriate distance from others
- Maintain a 6 foot distance as you pass people on the trail or step off the trail until others pass by.
- Once trailhead parking is full, the preserve is closed for additional visitors. Do not park on the street or in a non-designated parking spots. If a preserve is at capacity, please consider visiting another Land Trust nature preserve. Also consider visiting at non-peak times.
- Keep dogs on leash – even dogs should maintain appropriate social distance
- Stay home if you exhibit any symptoms of illness
- No groups, gatherings, or meetups (only immediate households should be together)
- Playgrounds, pavilions, picnic areas, and Chapman Pines Disc Golf Course are closed. Avoid any other areas where groups may gather.
- Be aware of and avoid high-touch points, such as trailhead kiosks, water fountains, or railings
- Please take your trash with you to reduce the frequency of trash collection during COVID-19. You can help protect Land Trust staff.
- Carry water, hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes to further protect yourself when needed
Need family-friendly activities to keep everyone entertained while social distancing? Check out our list of outdoor family fun ideas!
- Trail Rules & Tips: Take a look at our trail rules and hiking tips to stay safe and provide a positive outdoor experience for everyone. Find information about permitted activities for each property.
- Report a Problem: See a problem on the trails? Let us know so we can improve trail conditions! Submit your report here.
- Guided Hikes & Adventures: Want to explore nature with us? Check out our schedule of upcoming Hikes & Adventures – these free public education programs are available for adults and children.
- Matthews Nature Preserve in Limestone County is a conservation property and not currently open to the public. However, boy scouts and civic organizations may reserve this beautiful spot for overnight primitive camping. Call 256-534-5263 for details. We do not offer public camping sites.
Want an easy way to access our trail maps while on out on the trail?
Land Trust members receive access to our FREE Trail Map App!
