Chapman Mountain Nature Preserve is becoming an even better destination for birders with the recent installation of a new elevated birding platform along Moonshine Trail. Located on the southern portion of the preserve just a few hundred feet from the parking lot, the 10’ x 10’ viewing platform offers visitors a new vantage point to observe birds in an open pine forest and transitional habitat. This area is home to species different from those typically seen at the preserve’s popular bird blind and water feature.

Designed with accessibility in mind, the platform includes a ramp that allows visitors with mobility challenges to easily access the space and enjoy the birding opportunities it provides. This addition is part of the Land Trust’s ongoing effort to make preserves more inclusive and welcoming for all visitors.

The new platform also helps diversify birding activity across the preserve. By encouraging visitors to explore additional areas along Moonshine Trail, it helps relieve some of the heavy foot traffic at the primary bird blind while expanding the range of habitats available for observation. Whether visitors are seasoned birders or just beginning to explore the hobby, this new feature creates more room to pause, look, and listen.

This project was made possible through a generous grant from Iron Mountain Solutions. The Land Trust is grateful for their support and for the incredible volunteers who turned out each day to help bring this platform to life. This project would not have been possible without their time and dedication.

Chapman Mountain continues to grow as a key birding location in North Alabama and is proudly recognized as a stop on the Alabama Birding Trail. With its Bird Blind and Habitat and the addition of this new elevated platform, the preserve attracts a wide variety of bird species throughout the year. No matter the season, visitors are encouraged to bring their binoculars and explore all that Chapman Mountain has to offer.