Moss Rock Preserve
General information
Land Manager: City of Hoover
Native Lands: Mvskoke (Muscogee / Creek) (from Native-land.ca)
Area Rep: Markham Tuck, mhamtuck@gmail.com
Moss Rock Preserve, previously known as the “Shades Crest Boulders”, has gone from a local hidden gem to a coveted community asset and nature preserve. In the early 2000’s, encroaching housing developments threatened the future of the preserve, but thanks to the efforts of local climbers and advocacy groups, the boulder field was saved and deemed a community park by the city. Recently, the City of Hoover has invested in the recreational opportunities of the Preserve and has partnered with SCC and Access Fund to clean graffiti, build trails and improve infrastructure. Moss Rock Preserve a great urban bouldering destination and recreational asset to the Birmingham community.
City of Hoover Moss Rock Preserve website
Directions
What to Expect
There are approximately 50 sandstone boulder problems with everything from sketchy sloping mantles, delicate balancing on tiny crimps, overhangs, roofs, and scary highballs. Moss Rock Preserve has seen first ascents from rock climbing legends like John Gill and John Sherman, as well as local legend, Adam Henry. Moss Rock Preserve has a public parking lot, kiosk and obvious trailhead. Please follow all posted rules.
Access notes
“Please do your part to keep this area scenic and wild for all generations to enjoy”
- Leave no trace- Pack out all trash
- Do not explore off trail to protect rare native plant species. Do not destroy or remove any plants
- Vehicles are to park in designated parking lots only. All vehicles must leave by posted closing time
- No bikes, skateboards, or motorized vehicles in the Preserve
- No alcoholic beverages or glass
- Moss Rock Preserve is open Sunrise to Sunset.
- No campfires or camping
- Pets must be on a leash at all times
- Keep noise to a minimum
See the full list of rules on City of Hoover website.
Camping
No camping at Moss Rock Preserve
Guidebook