Viewpoint – Monte Sano Fire Tower loop from Monte Sano Nature Preserve
Viewpoint – Monte Sano Fire Tower loop from Monte Sano Nature Preserve
2.5
(21)
66
riders
Viewpoint – Monte Sano Fire Tower loop from Monte Sano Nature Preserve
01:50
19.6km
320m
Mountain biking
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: May 20, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through protected areas
Please check local regulations for:
Monte Sano Nature Preserve
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
5.20 km
Viewpoint
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
8.01 km
James O'Shaughnessy's Lily Lake
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
8.07 km
Monte Sano Fire Tower
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
19.6 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
17.9 km
1.29 km
147 m
120 m
< 100 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
15.4 km
2.63 km
1.29 km
169 m
103 m
< 100 m
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Elevation
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Wednesday 22 July
32°C
24°C
76 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 11.0 km/h
to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a mountain biking route that truly tests your skills while rewarding you with stunning views, the Viewpoint – Monte Sano Fire Tower loop from Monte Sano Nature Preserve is a fantastic choice. This difficult 12.2-mile (19.6 km) ride packs in 857 feet (261 metres) of elevation gain, taking around 1 hour and 43 minutes to complete. It's perfect for intermediate to experienced riders ready to tackle varied terrain and enjoy the best of Monte Sano State Park.
What to expect on Viewpoint – Monte Sano Fire Tower loop from Monte Sano Nature Preserve
Expect a dynamic ride as you piece together popular plateau trails like the Fire Tower Trail, North Plateau Loop, and South Plateau Loop. The Fire Tower Trail offers a gentler start, but don't be fooled; the North Plateau Loop quickly ramps up the challenge with rocky, technical sections and steep drop-offs along the bluff, providing expansive vistas of north Huntsville. The South Plateau Loop also mixes smooth singletrack with technical water bars and roots. This varied terrain demands attention and skill, making it ideal for riders who appreciate a good challenge and diverse landscapes under a lush forest canopy, with the historic Monte Sano Fire Tower as a notable landmark.
Planning your visit
The trails within Monte Sano State Park are multi-use, so be prepared to share the path with hikers and always ride mindfully. While specific parking details aren't provided, the Monte Sano Nature Preserve likely offers ample parking. Some sections of the Fire Tower Trail can become muddy after rain, so check conditions before you go. The park is known for spectacular views, especially when autumn leaves change color, making fall an excellent time to visit.
Trail details
- Distance: 12.2 miles (19.6 km)
- Elevation gain: 857 feet (261 metres)
- Difficulty: difficult
- Estimated time: 1 hours and 43 minutes
Comments
Want to know more?
Sign up for a free komoot account to join the conversation.
Sign up for free