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During any ANC General Public Weekend, you can enjoy hiking five miles of scenic ANC trails while learning about the fascinating natural history of central Alabama. From distinguishing between a white oak and a red oak to observing the natural processes of a seasonal pond, you get more than just a walk in the woods when you pause to study the interpretive signs along the trails. From ponds and creeks to forests and fields, you can always find some kind of new life waiting around the next trail bend. You can even add to the outdoor experience with a tasty picnic under or around the ANC pavilion.
 
In addition to the self-guided trail system, you can also enjoy entertaining and informative conservation education programming during designated weekends. These weekends feature themes that highlight snakes, salamanders, frogs, turtles, birds, hydrangeas and even fishing, just to name a few. During these weekends, you can also enjoy a guided hike by one of ANC’s world class biologists.
 
The ANC staff invites you to step outside, take a breath of fresh air and discover what happy trails await you at the Alabama Nature Center.



General Public Hours
In order to provide quality outdoor education experiences, drive-up visitors wishing to walk the trails are not allowed, except during scheduled times when the Center is open to the general public.
 
Open to the General Public every third weekend of each month:  Saturday  8:00 am to 5:00 pm  |  Sunday  1:00 pm to 5:00 pm
 
Additional General Public Bonus Days will be announced periodically for special events and when use of the walking trails by the general public do not conflict with scheduled outdoor education activities.


General Public Admission

General Admission (Day Pass)
   Weekend Pass (Saturday and Sunday)
Adult ................................................... $4                        Adult .................................................... $5
Youth (age 4-12) .............................. $2   Youth (age 4-12) ............................... $3
Youth (age 3 and under) ................ Free   Youth (age 3 and under) ................. Free

*10 youths or more and 2 adults get in free!
 

Alabama Nature Center Rules

To maintain the character and quality of the experience at the Alabama Nature Center, please abide by the following rules:  
  • Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
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  • *Pets are not allowed.
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  • No smoking.  The Alabama Nature Center is a smoke free facility.
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  • No bicycles, skateboards, scooters, kites, remote controlled cars/ planes, or similar items.
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  • Shirts and shoes must be worn at all times.
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  • Alcoholic beverages are not permitted.
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  • Glass containers are not allowed.
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  • No Littering. All trash must be placed in approved containers, or taken with you when you leave.
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  • No loud radios and/or sound making devices allowed.
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  • All plants and animals are protected.  Do not collect plants, flowers, shrubs, animals, or other items.
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  • Please stay on trails and boardwalks.
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  • Picnics are allowed in the Pavilion and the Pavilion Field only, unless otherwise designated.
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  • For your safety and protection, do not pull or hang on limbs or vines.

*Assistance animals allowed for those with disabilities.