Overview
Contiguous to the grounds and facilities of the Ruffner Mountain Nature Center, Jefferson County’s Ruffner Mountain addition provides 227 acres of mountainous pine-upland hardwood forest land within the densely populated greater Birmingham metro area. This green oasis offers numerous opportunities for environmental education and outdoor recreation, such as hiking and wildlife observation. A nature center is open to visitors with the exception of Mondays, when it is closed.

Hiking
The preserve, pavilion, and trails are open from 7:00 am - 5:00 pm 

 7:00 am - 5:00 pm November - February                                                                                                                                                                                                         7:00 am - 7:00 pm March - October 

 Closed Mondays

Non-member are required to purchase a visitor parking permit for $5 through the Park Mobile app.  Cash or card options are available at the vending machine located at the pavilion.  The permit covers everyone in your vehicle and valid for one day only.

If you are interested in membership, please visit the membership page on our website.

Birding
The Ruffner Mountain Nature Center and Preserve and the Ruffner Mountain Wetlands are stops on the Appalachian Highlands Birding Trail

Article about Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve

Location
See this tract on an interactive map.

Directions
From Birmingham, take Interstate I-59, North or South bound, to Exit 132 at First Avenue North. At the end of the exit ramp, bear to the right onto 1st Ave. Go to the first traffic light at 83rd Street and take a right. Continue onto Rugby Ave. Turn left at 81st Street South. Ruffner Mountain Nature Center is located at the end of the street.