pictured above: Alabama Trails Foundation President Paul DeMarco, Land Trust of North Alabama Executive Director Marie Bostick, Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle
Alabama Trails Foundation, City of Huntsville, and Land Trust of North Alabama Celebrate “Year of Alabama Trails” with New Signage at Blevins Gap Trailhead
HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — The Alabama Trails Foundation, in partnership with the City of Huntsville and the Land Trust of North Alabama, officially unveiled a new commemorative sign today at the Blevins Gap Trailhead. The installation celebrates the “Year of Alabama Trails,” a statewide initiative highlighting the diverse trail systems that make Alabama a premier destination for outdoor recreation and a better place to call home.
The ceremony brought together local leaders to emphasize the vital role that trails play in enhancing the quality of life for North Alabama residents. By providing spaces for physical activity, mental restoration, and a direct connection to nature, the trail at Blevins Gap represents a critical component of the region’s public health and community infrastructure.
“Our trails are a major part of what makes Huntsville such a special place to live,” said Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle. “Access to trails, greenways and natural spaces is an important part of what makes Huntsville a great place to live,” said Mayor Tommy Battle. “It not only provides opportunities for exercise but showcases our city’s beauty as well. It’s truly a welcoming attraction that draws residents, visitors and businesses to our community. We are grateful for the Land Trust of North Alabama and the Alabama Trails Foundation for the work they do to preserve these natural resources.”
The Blevins Gap Nature Preserve, a flagship property of over 1100 acres managed by the Land Trust of North Alabama, offers stunning views of the Tennessee Valley. The new signage serves as an invitation for more residents to explore the thousands of acres of protected land available in their own backyard.
“The Land Trust is proud to host this celebration of Alabama’s incredible trail network,” said Marie Bostick, Executive Director of the Land Trust of North Alabama. “Trails like these provide a sanctuary for our community. Whether it’s a morning hike to clear the mind or a weekend family outing, these outdoor spaces are essential to our collective happiness and the preservation of our region’s natural beauty.”
The Alabama Tourism Department launched the “Year of Alabama Trails” to draw attention to the economic and health benefits of trail systems across the state, and partnered with the Alabama Trails Foundation to help showcase our amazing trail culture. From the mountains of the Tennessee Valley to the shores of the Gulf Coast, trails serve as a unifying thread for Alabamians.
“Huntsville and the Land Trust have set a gold standard for how communities can leverage natural assets to improve the lives of their residents,” said Paul DeMarco, President, Alabama Trails Foundation. “This sign at Blevins Gap is a reminder that Alabama is a ‘trail state,’ and that our paths lead to a healthier, more connected future.”
For more information about the Alabama Trails Foundation and the Year of Alabama Trails, visit alabamatrailsfoundation.org. For information about the Land Trust of North Alabama and their trails, visit landtrustnal.org
Media Contact: Joe Watts, Communications Director, Alabama Trails Foundation (joe@alabamatrailsfoundation.org) , Abigal Harrison, Marketing Director, Land Trust of North Alabama (abigail@landtrustnal.org)
