Blevins Gap Nature Preserve facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Blevins Gap Nature Preserve |
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View from Hampton Cove of the preserve and the surrounding area
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| Type | Nature preserve |
| Location | Huntsville, Alabama |
| Area | 994 acres (402 ha) |
| Operated by | Land Trust of North Alabama |
| Open | Dawn to dusk |
| Designation | National Recreation Trail (Trail system) |
Blevins Gap Nature Preserve is a fantastic natural area located in southern Huntsville, Alabama. It's a special place where nature is protected, and people can explore the outdoors. This preserve covers a huge area of about 994 acres (that's like 750 football fields!) and has more than 12 miles of trails for hiking and exploring.
In 2012, the trails at Blevins Gap were given a special honor. They were named a National Recreation Trail. This means they are recognized as important trails for outdoor fun and adventure across the country.
Contents
Exploring Blevins Gap
Blevins Gap Nature Preserve is divided into two main parts. A road called Cecil Ashburn Drive runs right through the middle.
Northern Trails
The northern part of the preserve is about 267 acres. It has 4.5 miles of trails. Here, you might find rocky hills to climb. There are also beautiful waterfalls to discover.
Southern Trails
The southern part is much larger, at 727 acres. It offers about 8 miles of trails. These trails wind through peaceful woodlands. It's a great place to enjoy nature and get some exercise.
A Look at History
Blevins Gap Nature Preserve has an interesting past. It holds the very end of an old path called the "Spacewalk Trail." This trail was built way back in the 1960s. It was created by Boy Scouts! The trail used to stretch from Monte Sano State Park all the way to Green Mountain.
The northern part of the preserve was a very important donation. It was given in 1988. This was the first time land was ever donated to a land trust in Alabama. A land trust is a group that works to protect natural areas. Two trails in this northern section are named after the people who donated the land. They are called the Stevenson Trail and the Fanning Trail.
Animals and Plants You Might See
Blevins Gap Nature Preserve is home to many different kinds of animals. If you visit quietly, you might spot some amazing wildlife!
Wildlife in the Preserve
Some of the animals that live here include Armadillos and bobcats. You might also see coyotes, deer, and foxes. Other common animals are opossums and raccoons. And don't forget the turkeys!
Special Plants
The preserve also has a variety of interesting plants. You can find the beautiful Alabama snow-wreath here. There's also the American smoketree. Another unique plant is the yellow lady's slipper.
Two very rare plants also grow in Blevins Gap. These are the endangered Morefield's leather flower and Price's potato-bean. It's important to protect these special plants.
