The Mountain of Health
Monte Sano is a mountain in Huntsville, Alabama, whose Spanish name means “Mountain of Health.” The name was given by Dr. Thomas Fern, who founded a small colony on the mountain with his two brothers during an epidemic of yellow fever, malaria, and cholera.
In the late 1800s, visitors from across the United States came for “the season” to enjoy Monte Sano's fresh air, spectacular views, and mineral springs.
The Park Today
Monte Sano State Park spans roughly 2,140 acres atop the mountain overlooking Huntsville, offering more than 20 miles of hiking and biking trails, scenic overlooks, camping, and 14 rustic cabins built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s.
By the Numbers
Things to Enjoy
Trails & Overlooks
More than 20 miles of hiking and biking trails wind past scenic overlooks with spectacular views.
Camping & Cabins
Spend the night camping, or stay in one of 14 rustic cabins built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s.
Amphitheater
The park features an amphitheater for gatherings and programs on the mountain.
Stargazing
A planetarium operated by the local astronomy society makes the park a favorite spot for stargazing.
Views from the Summit
Come Up the Mountain
From its healing-springs past to its starlit present, Monte Sano has always been a place to breathe deeply and look far.