For the first time in several years, there is a brand new trail to enjoy on Rainbow Mountain as well as the addition of a new trailhead on the south end of the preserve, offering convenient access to this popular recreation space nestled within the City of Madison. 

Surrounded by residential areas, Rainbow Mountain Nature Preserve is a 147-acre outdoor oasis owned by the City of Madison with almost 4 miles of natural surface trails for hiking managed by the Land Trust of North Alabama. The beautiful rocky terrain offers some challenging climbs as well as easier hikes perfect for families or beginners. On the weekends in particular, the trail system is buzzing with activity as this is a well-loved space for many area residents to enjoy time surrounded by trees and the sounds of nature.

Until recently, the only trailhead for Rainbow Mountain Nature Preserve was located at Stoneway Trail atop the mountain. However, the City of Madison has added a new entrance at the south end of the preserve on Kensington Drive, accessed from Eastview and McAdoo Drives. The trail entrance is located at the end of the street in a cul-de-sac and offers limited street parking as well as pedestrian access for surrounding residents. Stairs lead from the street up to the beginning of Rainbolt Trail. There, visitors will find an information kiosk with a trail map and other helpful resources for hikers. 

“We are excited to open this new trail access point on Rainbow Mountain. This project reflects our commitment to expanding outdoor spaces and promoting healthy, active lifestyles for our residents,” said Mayor Paul Finley. “I hope this new access point inspires more people to get out and explore and appreciate the incredible landscapes we have right here in our city,” he said.

The new .5-mile Rainbolt Trail is rated moderate in difficulty. Gently climbing from Kensington Trailhead, it winds up the mountainside via several switchbacks and stone steps to reach the intersection of Rainbow Mountain Loop Trail and Wild Trail. There are several beautiful rock formations along the route, including Alligator Rock, a 30-ft long rock shaped like an alligator head. The trail names come from the mountain’s namesake, Elisha Rainbolt, who settled before 1814 on this native Chickasaw land. The name “Rainbolt” evolved into “Rainbow” over the next century, giving us today’s Rainbow Mountain.

Construction of Rainbolt Trail took place over 18 months and involved many volunteer hours. The project was led by volunteers with Madison Greenways and Trails (MG&T) in partnership with Land Trust of North Alabama staff. 

“Forty volunteers worked 700 hours on the trail allowing easy walking access from hundreds of homes in the area. This allows us Madison residents to exercise and experience the solitude of nature in our backyards while also increasing our property values. MG&T is committed to expanding the city’s preserves to support our area’s booming population,” said Jim Chamberlain, President, Madison Greenways & Trails.

Rainbow Mountain Nature Preserve is open dawn to dusk daily and free to access. Visitors can find a trail map and other helpful information to plan a visit at landtrustnal.org/rainbow-mountain-preserve.