Moss Rock Preserve

A perfect balance of nature and community, Moss Rock Preserve is a beautiful 349 acre nature preserve abundant with forest systems, large rock outcroppings, streams, waterfalls, wildlife, and other unique natural features. Currently, Moss Rock Preserve is home to six rare species of plants and a rare variant of Little River Canyon Sandstone Glade that is thought to be one of only 35 occurrences known around the world!
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Boulder Field

Moss Rock Preserve's Boulder Field is a favorite among rock climbers. With numerous technical formations and climbing routes, these boulders appeal to climbers of all skill levels.
The City of Hoover is fortunate that these and other natural features exist in Moss Rock. As such, Moss Rock Preserve has been dedicated as a nature preserve in order to insure its long-term health and sustainability.

Nearly 12 miles of hiking trails exist within the boundaries of Moss Rock Preserve. These trails allow visitors to witness the beauty of Moss Rock up close and personal. Trail construction and maintenance, as well as other general maintenance items within Moss Rock are carried out by City staff and dedicated groups of volunteers. Groups like the Friends of Moss Rock Preserve; UAB Into The Streets, Access Fund, American Conservation Experience, Southeastern Climbers Coalition; Boy and Girls Scouts of America; Hands on Birmingham; Ruffner Mountain Nature Center; AmeriCorps, Freshwater Land Trust and various church and civic organizations have all graciously donated their time to improving Moss Rock. Hoover appreciates each of you!

Moss Rock Preserve Rules

Possibly the most unique feature of Moss Rock Preserve is that it belongs to the Hoover community. With increased use, Moss Rock has become more and more dependent on this community for its maintenance and general well being.
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In June of 2003, the City of Hoover adopted Ordinance #03-1973 to aid in the protection and preservation of Moss Rock Preserve. Preserve Rules signs are currently posted at various trail heads around Moss Rock Preserve. Please read them as you enter and follow them as you enjoy your time in the park.

Please do your part to keep Moss Rock scenic, healthy and wild for all generations to enjoy! Visitors are encouraged to promptly report any and all violations of Moss Rock's rules to the Hoover Police Department at 205-822-5300.


Volunteer Opportunities

If you are interested in volunteering at Moss Rock Preserve and/or if you would like to be added to the email list of Moss Rock volunteers, please call (205) 739-7141 or email Colin Conner with the City of Hoover Parks Dept.  Select, volunteer opportunities at Moss Rock are also emailed out through the 'Notify Me' feature on our homepage.  To receive 'Notify Me' emails or text messages - login, select events you'd like to be notified about and select how you'd like to be notified.