Mountain Longleaf National Wildlife Refuge

Mountain Longleaf National Wildlife Refuge is a protected area in northeastern Alabama that spans over 9,000 acres of forested mountain slopes. The landscape is dominated by longleaf pine forests growing at elevations around 1,400 feet, with hiking trails and observation points distributed throughout the accessible portions.

The refuge was established in 2003 on former military training grounds, converting the Fort McClellan site into a protected landscape. This transformation allowed the region to preserve one of the last remaining natural longleaf pine ecosystems in the southeastern United States.

The refuge provides educational programs about the longleaf pine ecosystem, engaging local communities through guided tours and research opportunities for scientists and students.

Visitors can access roughly 3,000 acres of the refuge during daylight hours, with marked hiking trails and viewing points spread throughout the open areas. Walking slowly through the forest increases your chances of spotting wildlife in their natural habitat.

The refuge shelters several endangered animals, including red-cockaded woodpeckers and gray bats, species that have become scarce in other regions. These fragile populations depend on this protected forest for their survival.

Location: Calhoun County

Inception: 2003

Elevation above the sea: 430 m

Website: https://fws.gov/southeast/mountainlongleaf

GPS coordinates: 33.69680,-85.75190

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:07