On Sunday, November 13, join Gary Bostany on a hike at Ruffner Mountain while learning the history and its early beginnings. View some of the mining relics, iron-ore crushers— learn their purpose, and view mine openings that visitors rarely get to see. Learn about the extended railroad system “the old mineral railroad” that serviced Ruffner and the rest of Red Mountain.
Ruffner Mountain was once home to the Sloss-Sheffield Mines where iron-ore and limestone were extracted and sent to the blast furnaces at Sloss. Discover Ruffner’s role in the mining heyday of Birmingham while exploring these sites and artifacts up close.
The hike is approximately three miles total, usually about 3.5 hours, with moderate inclines and slopes. The hike will take us to Mine Site #3, and the Quarry. Adults and children ten and up are welcome. We will meet at the Nature Center. Please bring water and snacks to eat along the trail. Registration required ahead of time (registration form below). Also please download our waiver form and email it to christine@ruffnermountain.org, or you can bring it with on the day of the hike.
Gary Bostany is a volunteer educational docent at Vulcan Park and Museum, and a history buff regarding Birmingham’s early days of the making of Iron and steel. The hikes will be rescheduled in case of inclement weather.