Flora Johnston Nature Park in Irondale is a hidden gem perfect for those seeking both peaceful moments and invigorating hikes. This city park offers a rustic trail experience through wooded terrain along Shades Creek, where visitors can immerse themselves in the soothing sounds of nature and admire diverse rock formations and trees.
While the terrain includes stairs, roots, and rocks, making it less accessible for those with mobility challenges, it rewards hikers with nearly three miles of shaded paths and opportunities for stunning nature photography. The park is a favored spot for quiet reflection, meditation, and family adventures with leashed pets. Responsible use of the park is encouraged to preserve its natural beauty, especially since much of the upkeep comes from local community efforts. Those seeking a quick escape from urban life will find this park a restorative sanctuary in Irondale.
JC
8 months agoThis little spot is a diamond in the rough! I've had many peaceful, serene moments here. And it is LITERALLY a turn of the steering wheel away from an urban experience to one of nature. It has become a favorite meditative spot of mine for quickly getting away from the distractions of the "world," and into the calm, restorative presence of the EARTH 🌎❤️
Melinda L.
2 years ago🚫♿️This trail is a hidden gem. It is not for those with mobility issues however. There are stairs leading down amd once on the trail you are just in the middle of the woods. I followed it as long as I could without needing help to get out. There are roots and rocks, a walking stick would be helpful if you have balance issues. Please clean up after yourself. It seems the people of the neighborhood are the ones doing a lot of the work. I was able to get some amazing nature photos while getting in almost 3 miles of walking. Lots to look at, it's shady, follows Shades Creek. Went to see the waterfall, but it hasn't rained much lately so there was not one on this day. There were lots of muddy places that had not dried since the last rain. There are tons of rock and trees to just admire and enjoy the silence and sound of the wind blowing through the leaves. It seems it has an Irondale address, but the sign tells another story entirely. The parking lot is in people's backyard, please be responsible and respectful. From what I can tell, they are clearing the other side to add another trail that would be level and accessible to those in ♿.
Heather Moore
2 years agoThe hike originally seemed perfect! But pay clear attention to when it’s going to be dark. One minute it’s bright and clear the next you’re speed walking through the woods with just your phones “flashlight”. Sounds seem very different when it’s just you hoping you didn’t just see a the sign that still said 1/2 mile. Again, originally the hike was perfect! Would go again but earlier in the day.
daniel weber
3 years agoThis is a great place for a quiet hike with your Fuzz Kids and there's plenty of hills and adventurous hiking. I cross paths with three families and they all had leashes on their kids. Will be back for another adventure ❤️
Kinley Hall
5 years agoI love hiking there, and I love the changes they have made also! It's pretty clean. Lately I've noticed there is A LOT of yard trinkets. In the beginning there was a decorative deer hidden inside a tree trunk, but on my current hike half way through trail I spotted like a dozen of figurines. As cute and cool as it may be it seemed like an overkill and like someone decored their yard. It kinda distracts you from the nature. Almost becomes like litter. Other than that beautiful place! I love to look for mushrooms there! Find so many kinds especially after rain!