Mill Creek Preserve officially opens in Madison

MADISON – The efforts that began 20 years ago have paid dividends as the Mill Creek Nature Preserve was officially opened Oct. 2 with a ceremony held at the Balch Road Trailhead at the historic Gray Cemetery located just north of the Chelsea Park subdivision.

The project has been part of Madison’s vision for greenspace since 2006, when the property was acquired. Mill Creek Nature Preserve was identified as a high-priority greenspace project in the City’s Comprehensive Plan and is being developed in multiple phases.

“Mill Creek Nature Preserve is a wonderful example of what can happen when a community comes together around a shared vision for protecting greenspace and creating places for people to experience nature,” said Marie Bostick, Executive Director of the Land Trust of North Al- abama. “We are grateful to the City of Madison, Madison Greenways & Trails, the volunteers who have invested their time and energy, and the many partners who have helped bring this vision to life. The Land Trust is proud to play a role in protecting and stewarding this special place for the community, and we look forward to seeing Mill Creek Nature Preserve grow in the years ahead.”

The initial opening features just over a mile of natural-surface walking trails with low elevation change through beautiful woods and along streams in the heart of Madison. The trails are designed to be enjoyed by visitors of all ages and abilities and provide a new opportunity for residents to experience nature while connecting with an important piece of the community’s history.

The efforts behind the preserve recognizes the history of the Providence community, whose early settlers established roots in the area more than 200 years ago. Located at the trailhead is the historic Gray Cemetery, which has been undergoing renovation and restoration through the efforts of local volunteers. The partnership between the cemetery volunteers, Madison Greenways & Trails, the City of Madison, and the Land Trust will establish the site as both a recreational preserve and a place for historic preservation.

The grand opening of the 1.25-mile trail is expected to be just the beginning of things to come. Future phases will expand recreational opportunities throughout the preserve. Beginning in 2027, the Land Trust has recommended development of a second trailhead on the east side of the property, with the potential for up to two additional miles of trails.

The long-term vision also includes extending the Mill Creek Greenway from its current terminus near Browns Ferry Road toward the Wall Triana Highway area. This future connection could link the western side of Madison, including Bradford Creek Greenway, with the eastern side of the city and existing walking and biking paths near Wall Triana Highway and Hughes Road.

After 20 years on the drawing board and through greats efforts from numerous organizations, the Land Trust of North Alabama will ultimately oversee the Mill Creek Nature Preserve as a whole, similar to its role at Rainbow Mountain Preserve in Madison.