Flying Creek Nature Preserve

Flying Creek Nature Preserve, located at 22430 Main St, Fairhope, AL 36532, is a remarkable 108-acre natural sanctuary dedicated to conservation, outdoor recreation, and environmental education. This preserve offers a unique opportunity for residents and visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of Alabama’s native ecosystems while enjoying a variety of thoughtfully designed amenities. As a hiking area, it provides an extensive network of trails that wind through diverse landscapes, including longleaf pine forests, riparian zones along Fly Creek, and restored habitats that support native wildlife. The preserve is a peaceful retreat that honors the vision of Fairhope’s founders to set aside land for public benefit and environmental stewardship.

The preserve’s trails span approximately three miles, featuring a mix of wide multi-use paths, narrow footpaths, and loops that follow historic routes such as old highways and logging roads. These trails offer varied experiences, from high bluff overlooks with scenic views to intimate walks through gullies and hummocks. The landscape, once a longleaf savannah last logged in the 1950s, is undergoing restoration efforts including fire management to clear underbrush and promote the growth of native longleaf pine habitats essential for migrating birds and local wildlife. This ecological restoration is a core part of the preserve’s mission to enhance biodiversity and provide educational opportunities about native ecosystems.

Visitors to Flying Creek Nature Preserve can enjoy several amenities designed to enhance their outdoor experience while minimizing environmental impact. These include an outdoor classroom for educational programs, a bird blind for wildlife observation, a restroom pavilion, and a bicycle repair station. The trailhead features an informational kiosk that helps orient visitors and provides insights into the preserve’s natural and cultural history. An eco-friendly parking area supports sustainable access to the preserve. The John Martin Nature Center, located at the entrance, serves as a hub for interpretive materials, restrooms, meeting rooms, and classrooms, welcoming school groups and nature enthusiasts alike.

The preserve’s development was made possible through a $1 million grant from the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) via the Gulf of Mexico Energy and Security Act (GOMESA), reflecting a strong commitment to environmental restoration and public access to natural spaces. The City of Fairhope, in partnership with local engineering and environmental firms such as Thompson Engineering and Watershed, has carefully planned the preserve to balance recreational use with conservation goals. The project exemplifies a community-driven effort to protect and celebrate the region’s natural heritage.

Flying Creek Nature Preserve is open daily from dawn to dusk, inviting hikers, bird watchers, families, and outdoor educators to explore its trails and facilities. The preserve’s location on Main Street makes it easily accessible, just a few miles from downtown Fairhope. It stands as a vibrant reminder of the area’s natural history and a forward-looking investment in the health and well-being of the community. Whether seeking a quiet walk in nature, an educational outing, or a place to connect with the outdoors, Flying Creek Nature Preserve offers a welcoming and enriching environment for all.

For more information or to plan a visit, the City of Fairhope can be contacted at +1 251-928-2136. The preserve represents a lasting legacy of conservation and community engagement, inviting everyone to experience the natural beauty and tranquility of this special place.