Jemison Park

A Wooded Escape

Found in Mountain Brook, just outside of Birmingham, Alabama, Jemison Park unfolds across 54 acres as a green ribbon following the gentle flow of Watkins Brook and Shades Creek. This linear sanctuary wasn't created by accident - it was intentionally preserved as part of the vision held by Mountain Brook's founder, Robert Jemison, Jr.

We've found it to be a great spot to clear your head with a walk or jog, lose yourself in a good book, watch for birds, or simply enjoy a peaceful picnic. Even when Alabama's summer heat cranks up, the dense canopy of trees keeps the paths surprisingly cool and comfortable.

Keeping the Vision Alive

The park stays so beautiful thanks to the combined efforts of Mountain Brook's city government and dedicated community organizations like the Friends of Jemison Park. Their recent renovations have enhanced the walkways and added a bridge that makes navigating the trail system much easier.

There's something about strolling alongside Shades Creek that just melts away the stress of city life. The peaceful atmosphere creates a genuine retreat where nature's sights and sounds take center stage.

Ancient Landscapes

When you walk through Jemison Park, you're actually experiencing millions of years of geological history. Shades Creek winds its way through Shades Valley at about 600 feet above sea level, with Shades Mountain rising to the southeast and Red Mountain forming the northwestern border.

For the best views of the park's flood plain (which only formed a few thousand years ago - practically yesterday in geological terms), head to the section along Mountain Brook Parkway between Cahaba Road and Overbrook Road. The creek itself is dotted with rocky areas, including some shallow spots where four-legged visitors love to splash and cool off.

Natural Diversity

The trees here tell a story - a mix of pines and hardwoods that represent second-growth forest, since the original trees were cleared before 1900 for farming and to fuel the nearby McElwain iron furnace.

Take a closer look as you walk and you'll spot fascinating plant species like white buckeye, paw-paw, sweetshrub, and golden ragwort along Mountain Brook Parkway. Plant enthusiasts will appreciate finding at least ten different fern species across the park. The thick tree canopy creates a shaded haven along most of the trails.

Wildlife Haven

Keep your eyes open and you might spot raccoons nesting in hollow dead trees or catch glimpses of cardinals, towhees, Carolina wrens, and brown thrashers flitting between branches. If you're lucky, you might even see the impressive pileated woodpecker working on a tree trunk.

The creek and damp ground areas create perfect conditions for various amphibians. If you enjoy birdwatching, bring your binoculars - there's something to see year-round here.

Getting Around

The main attraction for many visitors is the one-mile concrete trail (each way) that connects with the Nature Trail and the Watkins Trace Trail. Most paths are paved, though some sections feature well-maintained gravel.

These trails aren't isolated - they're part of Mountain Brook's impressive 45-mile network of sidewalks and paths. The wide, paved sections make it accessible if you use mobility aids, however you should know that some areas have limited bench options for resting.

What to Know Before You Go

Jemison Park is incredibly dog-friendly - you'll find pet waste stations with bags and trash cans placed conveniently throughout. On any given day, you'll see plenty of happy dogs and their owners enjoying the paths and creek access points.

If you're planning a picnic, you'll discover tables near the parking areas and under the shade trees. Speaking of parking, there are spots along the roadside around the park's length, however they can fill up during peak times.

You should know that there are no public restrooms or water fountains in the park. It's best to take care of these needs before arriving and bring water with you, especially during warmer months.