J.D. & Annie S. Hays Nature Preserve — Attraction in Huntsville

Absolutely lovely and perfect for all ages! The playground is without a doubt the best one around here, and perhaps in the city (I haven't seen every single one, so I can't say definitively 😊). It is set in a ton of mature trees so there is plenty of shade which really helps when it's warm/hot out. There are bathrooms to the side of the playground and they're in good condition. There are picnic tables perfect for snacks, any meal, or just sitting down while the kids run themselves straight into nap time or bed time.

The equipment itself is perfect. Every thing is constructed of wood and feels so natural in the setting in the woods. There are plenty of adventures to be had for all ages. My 3&5 yo love it, and my 12 yo enjoys going as well. Lots to climb on, swing on, explore, and really let their imaginations go wild.

If you haven't been here, pack up and go today, you will be so...

22nov2021 MON 08:00 - 09:45, 40s_F, Abby, Swee and i had a very enjoyable leisure ~2 mile walk at Hays Nature Preserve; we went CCW per the "Orienteering Map" (Parking A B C D F Parking.

Except for the Flint Trail (F) which was generally muddy, and "flooded" with ankle-deep water (though passable with care), the other Trails were reasonably well-maintained, signed and in good condtion. Also, its our first sighting of the Water Tupelo trees .. beautiful!

During our ~2 hours on the Trails, we were encountered 1 man walking his dog, and a young man Trail-runner.

Everyone were courteous and friendly. Thank y'all - and the City of Huntsville for this lovely Hays...

Not for horseback riding, even if they claim it is. The trails are POORLY marked and what is marked seems to dead end or go too close to the bike riding trail. We got too close and didn’t realize until two bikes came zooming around a corner. Thank goodness the bike riders (who were just doing their thing as they should expect to on their own trail) were considerate and stopped when two of our horses panicked. This trail should not be promoted for horse riding until they go back and make it very clear where the horses may SAFELY go. We kept crossing and recrossing trying to find a clear trail until we finally gave...