Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve is a 1,038 acre nature preserve located in the eastern portion of Jefferson County, Alabama in the City of Birmingham's historic South East Lake neighborhood. The preserve includes a visitor center containing native Alabama animals including raptors, snakes, turtles, and owls. The Ruffner Mountain area was home to iron ore mines and stone quarries, supplying the area's steel mills.
The preserve contains more than 14 miles (23 km) of hiking trails.
Monday | Closed |
Tuesday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
Wednesday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
Thursday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
Friday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
Saturday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
Sunday | 1:00 – 5:00 PM |
Jessica Christophersen | Jan 27, 2018
Ruffner Mountain is wonderful place to visit in Birmingham. Great hiking trails and beautiful views. It's about 1.3 miles to the quarry. There is a lot to to explore there and there is a great view of Bham from the top. The quarry trail is fairly easy. There are many trails along the way you can add to make your hike longer or more difficult. Entrance is free. There are picnic areas and nice bathrooms at the parking area.
Joyce Gomez | Jan 26, 2018
Best, and i mean best place to go for a hike or just for a walk. I frequently go here with my son and he absolutely loves being there. They also have a visitor center worth going into since they have several animals there in tanks. I recommended for this for couples with young children, its great exercise for them.
Taylor H | Feb 8, 2018
This place offers great views of Birmingham. The parking at the main trail head can get a little crowded on days with good weather. They have several trails that are great for beginners/casual hikers that just want to take a peaceful stroll.
Collin Spradley | Dec 18, 2017
This place is a hidden gem. It has many different trails and overlooks to explore. It is also pet friendly! I have been here a few times and I think it gets better each time. I love going here to get a quick hike in or relax for the afternoon. It is also free which is a huge addition. The trails are clearly marked and fully cleared so there is no risk of getting lost. My favorite spot here is on a ridge looking over downtown Birmingham. If you go at the right time you can catch the sun setting behind the city.
c w | Feb 20, 2018
So many trails and wildlife. There is an educational center with indoor restrooms and an outdoor sheltered area for meeting, relaxing or picnicking. No admission charge but memberships available.
Anomor Yasdnil | May 2, 2018
I grew up down the hill from here, and spent many days here as a youth. The nature trails are nice but meant for older crowds. Young children at times have become lost on trails if they were left alone. The nature exhibits are lackluster, hence only 3 stars. Staff is not the friendliest, but it's to be expected... Unless they're holding special events or fundraisers.
Mel Elaine | Apr 21, 2018
The park is beautiful. It's free, and something to do on a nice day. I would so go back, if i lived in Alabama. The views are breathtaking. The staff are also very helpful.
Jennifer Spears | Apr 19, 2018
Ruffner makes you forget that you're in a city. They have great hiking, a nice visitors center, and helpful staff. Their yearly native plant sell is something I look forward to every year.
Igor Volkov | Jun 21, 2018
I liked the hike and views of the mountain. Especially neat to walk around and inside the middle of the mountain canyon. If you are fit enough you can stay off the trail and do some climbing. Made extra fun especially for good photo shots. A nice trail overall, easy to follow, good distance. Not too challenging. Recommend!
Connie Shao | Jun 25, 2018
peaceful hike with helpful maps at the entrance, trails also included on google maps. pet friendly. great for a casual hike or a trail run. no fee, but to become a member it’s $7 a month, modeled after public radio (support it if you use it!)
Arkeo Smith | May 11, 2018
Beautiful blooming countryside right in the middle of an urban neighborhood. This land was zoned and laid out to be another mountainside neighborhood before being rescued and donated for the enjoyment of all. They give mini eco-tours to school children across the city and the kids seem to love getting out in the fresh air. Many acres of wooded paths lined with unique native plant species and trees. Go ! You'll love it to if you like flowers, day-hiking and fresh air. Oh yeah, there's a small but informative interpretive center here too.
Rashad Copelin | Jun 2, 2018
This a great historic nature reserve in east birmingham. There are many trails with different terrains, wildlife, and overlooks. The Nature Center has a small petting zoo for children, maps, restrooms, and great service. The mountain is also home to many different species so be careful but have fun!
Jay Pulliam | Jul 14, 2018
Very peaceful place with lots of trails to hike on! The park rangers are also very nice and are more than happy to help with any questions you may have about recommended trails. They also have a cool room with various reptile tanks. Some trails are even long enough to be a great running spot.
Bryana Sherman | Jul 30, 2018
Great place for hiking, I took the Quarry trail that led to the outlook over the quarry. Its about 1.2 miles and took about 2 hours there and back - I stopped at the top for a while and also walked back down to the quarry so it probably takes less time. It wasn't too hot being that I went around 6am and there was plenty of shade. I hope to go back again and do some of the other trails!
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