We are kicking off our park series with one of Birmingham’s favorite spots, Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve. The preserve sits on 1,038 acres in urban Birmingham, Alabama, and is the third largest urban nature preserve in the United States. The preserve strives to protect and manage Ruffner Mountain as a home for native species of plants and animals, aided through educational and recreational programs. The preserve hopes to foster an appreciation of the natural world within the community.

From the late 19^th century to the mid-20^th century, Ruffner Mountain was mined for iron to be processed at nearby Sloss Furnace. The preserve was founded in 1977 by a grassroots community movement to organize and manage 25 acres of former mine land, growing to eventually encompass 1,038 acres. Today the park maintains over 12 miles of trails, perfect for running, hiking and the enjoyment of nature as a whole. Although entrance to the park is free, a suggested donation of $2 per person is greatly appreciated.

 

Ruffner Mountain’s Conservation Plan includes five biodiversity hotspots. The hotspots are representative of various natural communities of the mountain. Because invasive species have been removed, the plots are managed in accordance to that natural community type. The Preserve is a member of The Alabama Anti-Chytrid Alliance, or the AACA. The AACA is a new group comprised of institutions and professionals that share concern of the spread of the chytrid fungus as well as other various aquatic nuisance species found in southeastern wetlands and amphibian populations. The Nature Center is also a partner with the Alabama Amphibian Netowork, the AAN. The AAN increases awareness of monitoring amphibian populations among the general public. The AAN also provides cover board shelters and tree frog shelters to sample amphibians in our wetlands. These shelters serve as tools for practicing herpetologists as well as students hoping to gain hands-on experience with both amphibian and scientific research.

 

Ruffner Mountain hosts many events each year, with weekly activities in the warmer months. Spring break and summer camps are offered in a weekly format, with the goal of educating and engaging youth in the importance of nature, its inhabitants and conservation.

In addition to summer camps, the park hosts classes tailored to the outdoors. Yoga on the Trail will honor Earth Day with various yoga practices throughout the day. Beer on the Back Porch, the Native Plant Sale, Wine and Cheese Hike and many more events highlight local Birmingham businesses alongside nature.

For nearly 40 years, Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve has been one of Birmingham’s best resources for outdoor recreation.  Visit the park today and help protect Birmingham’s sanctuary for native plants and animals.

Learn more about Ruffner Mountain here, follow them on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.