About Ruffner Mountain :

Ruffner Mountain is a 1,011-acre nature preserve in eastern Jefferson County. Its protected forest, ridges and valleys provide a refuge for a wide variety of native plants and wildlife. Our visitor center is home to 25 native Alabama animals including raptors, snakes, turtles, frogs, salamanders, and mammals. It also houses mining relics found on the mountain, a computer slide show that lets you visit all the seasons and hidden corners of the mountain, and a gift shop. Located in the heart of Alabama’s largest urban area, it also offers a place for people to retreat to the serenity of the outdoors 11 miles of hiking trails. Our mission is to maintain and expand the nature preserve and to use the mountain to teach children and adults about nature and the environment.