Unexpected Space Encounters: Hiking Trails Behind the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville
By Corinne Beckinger on Mar. 02, 2021
Just when you think you've found every spot in Huntsville, another surprise adventure pops up around the corner. In this case, the hiking trails behind the U.S. Space & Rocket Center are hidden in plain sight. Along these trails, hikers will find old aircraft cockpits, a delightful collection of what we'd like to call "space-themed yard art," and even the occasional gnome.
Each of the trails are easy to navigate and relatively flat, making them ideal for families, new hikers, or visitors looking for a fun adventure near one of the most popular attractions in Huntsville.
Trails to Explore
Most of the trails behind the U.S. Space & Rocket Center are dual purpose and accessible for both bikers and hikers. Here are five worth checking out:
Cockpit Trail: This trail is the easiest to access directly from the parking lot. Less than one mile, the trail has – you guessed it – a few cockpits that are a great photo opportunity. The Cockpit Trail is a semicircle that feeds into the Powerline North Trail.
Powerline North and South Trails: The name of these two trails may not be as imaginative as the others on this list, but the Powerline North and South Trails offer families and new bikers to the area a chance to get their bearings and explore the area directly behind the RV Park and Space & Rocket Center. Together, the trails are a little less than 1.5 miles. Keep your eyes peeled for rogue spaceflight hardware.
Sherwood Forest Trail: If you were to keep walking in the same direction that you came in on down the access road, then cross over a small footbridge, the Sherwood Forest Trail will be on your left. The well-marked trail includes board walks and unique arches.
Narnia Trail: If you have kids along for a hike, be sure to bookmark this one-mile trail loop. Located just on the other side of the bridge on the opposite side of the road from the Sherwood Forest Trail, the Narnia Trail features eclectic art and sculptures that are sure to add another layer of fun to your quick hike.
Aviation Pond: While it's not technically a hiking trail, it's worth taking a quick walk around Aviation Pond, where you'll be able to see a lot of the Aviation Challenge course. Picnic tables and access to other trailheads, including Narnia and Sherwood Forest, are located on the far side of the pond.
Photo Credit: Sarah Brewer Click Photo Designs
The hiking and biking trails behind the U.S. Space and Rocket Center are located to the left of the Huntsville Marriott at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center. To enter the parking lot for trail access, turn off Tranquility Base toward the U.S. Space & Rocket Center RV Park. Rather than turning right into the campgrounds, follow the access road past the Drone Test Facility. The parking lot is on the left by Aviation Pond, shortly before the gated entrance to Aviation Challenge. Once parked, there are multiple trail options on either side of the parking lot for you to choose from.
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Categories: Explore Huntsville, Outdoors
Tags: US Space & Rocket Center, Mountain Biking, Hiking in Huntsville, Huntsville Hiking Trails
Corinne Beckinger
Five feet of bubbly enthusiasm and cheesy jokes, Corinne is happiest when she's exploring. She's a huge fan of hiking and kayaking, especially in the North Alabama area. But she won't say no to a happy hour deal or a mural photo opp for Instagram. When she's not traveling or exploring Huntsville, she's writing for her blog Five Foot Explorer.