The best walks and hikes around Owens Cross Roads
4.5
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Hiking around Owens Cross Roads Alabama explores a landscape characterized by river lowlands, rolling hills, and forested mountain preserves. The region's primary natural features include the Flint River, which carves a broad valley, and the elevated terrain of Green Mountain and Keel Mountain. Most trails are found within dedicated nature preserves, offering well-maintained paths through diverse woodland habitats. The area provides varied terrain for hikers, from riverside greenways to routes with moderate elevation gain.
Best hiking trails around Owens Crossβ¦
Last updated: May 17, 2026
1
hikers
3.12km
00:47
0m
0m
Explore Hays Nature Preserve on an easy 1.9-mile (3.1 km) hike, a route that takes about 47 minutes to complete. You will experience minimal elevation gain, just 13 feet (4β¦
4.7
(7)
10
hikers
4.78km
01:26
150m
150m
Embark on an easy hiking adventure along the Alum Hollow and Ranger Trail Loop, a 3.0-mile (4.8 km) route that guides you through varied landscapes. You will experience a gentleβ¦
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8
hikers
8.87km
02:14
10m
10m
Hike the 5.5-mile Aldridge Creek Greenway, a paved, moderate trail offering urban-natural scenery and wildlife spotting along the water.
7
hikers
1.75km
00:27
10m
10m
The Madison County Nature Trail offers an easy hiking experience, perfect for a quick escape into nature. You will cover 1.1 miles (1.7 km) with a gentle elevation gain ofβ¦
5.0
(4)
16
hikers
3.11km
00:59
120m
120m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Owens Cross Roads
Tips from the Community
Right after the first corner of this section of Alum Hollow Trail, you will find yourself walking under this huge overhanging cliff. Certainly an impressive sight!
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The little waterfall, close to the junction of Alum Hollow Trail and Talus Connector Trail, is one of the highlights in the area. It's a beautiful spot to spend some time and just soak in nature.
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72-acre big Madison County Nature Trail is located in southeast Huntsville. As the name indicates, there is a nature trail leading around the lake. The walk around the lake is completely flat and usually takes about 30 minutes and is therefore perfectly suited for families. Besides that, the area hosts a picnic area, a historic log cabin, a covered bridge and public restrooms.
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Aldridge Creek Greenway is a paved multi-use trail in southern Huntsville. The trail follows the creek of the same name and you will see plenty of wildlife like rabbits, turtles and different birds.
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Rocky trail, wear sturdy shoes. Prettier falls in spring and after rains but trail can get slick.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any dog-friendly hiking trails in the Owens Cross Roads area?
Yes, many of the trails in the area are welcoming to dogs, provided they are kept on a leash. The various paths within the highly-regarded Blevins Gap Nature Preserve are a popular choice for dog walkers looking for woodland scenery.
What are some good, easy hikes for families with kids?
For a family-friendly outing, the Madison County Nature Trail loop is an excellent choice. It's a very short and easy walk around a picturesque lake, making it perfect for little legs. The trails at J.D. & Annie S. Hays Nature Preserve are also generally flat and well-suited for families.
Can I find any hiking trails with waterfalls near Owens Cross Roads?
Yes, you can. The trail to Lost Sink Falls is a popular hike that leads to a waterfall which flows into a sinkhole, especially after recent rainfall. While not a long hike, it does involve some rocky sections and elevation change to reach the falls.
What are some popular places for hiking around Owens Cross Roads?
Hikers in the area have several excellent options, each with its own character.
Blevins Gap Nature Preserve is a local favorite, offering trails with some of the best views in the region. J.D. & Annie S. Hays Nature Preserve provides over 10 miles of flatter trails along the Flint River, ideal for relaxed walks. For a tranquil escape, the Green Mountain Nature Preserve offers beautiful woodland paths, including the popular Alum Hollow Trail.
How many hiking trails are available around Owens Cross Roads?
There are over a dozen designated hiking routes in and around Owens Cross Roads. The selection ranges from easy, flat greenways to more challenging woodland trails with significant elevation gain, offering something for every fitness level.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in this area?
The trails around Owens Cross Roads are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 out of 5 stars. Hikers frequently praise the well-maintained paths within the nature preserves and the peaceful, scenic woodlands that define the region's character.
Are there any short, circular hikes I can do in an hour or two?
Absolutely. The Smokerise & Sugar Tree Trails loop is a great option. At just under 3 miles, it can typically be completed in about 1 hour and 20 minutes and offers a pleasant walk through the forest.
Which trails offer the best views?
For rewarding views over the surrounding landscape, the trails at Blevins Gap Nature Preserve are your best bet. The elevation gain on the trails there leads to several overlooks that are particularly popular with local hikers.
What kind of wildlife might I see while hiking?
The diverse habitats support a variety of wildlife. At places like the Goldsmith Schiffman Wildlife Sanctuary and Hays Nature Preserve, you have a good chance of spotting deer, rabbits, and numerous bird species, as the area is part of the North Alabama Birding Trail.
How does Blevins Gap Nature Preserve compare to Hays Nature Preserve?
They offer very different hiking experiences. Blevins Gap Nature Preserve is known for its hilly, forested terrain and scenic overlooks, providing more of a classic hiking challenge. In contrast, Hays Nature Preserve features flat, easy trails that meander along the Flint River, making it ideal for casual walking, running, and birdwatching.
Are there any paved trails suitable for walking or running?
Yes, the Aldridge Creek Greenway is a long, paved path that's perfect for an uninterrupted walk, run, or bike ride. The Flint River Greenway within Hays Nature Preserve also offers a paved option.
What should I know about the Alum Hollow Trail?
The Alum Hollow Trail is a popular route in the Green Mountain Nature Preserve. It's an easy loop of about 3 miles through a beautiful, shaded forest with some interesting rock formations and a natural stone shelter. It's considered a local gem for a peaceful walk in nature.
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