"Monte sano" is Native American for "mountain of health." Despite the urban development that encircles it, 1,650-foot Monte Sano is said to have cooler, cleaner air than its surroundings. So refreshing was its air that the mountain at one time was the site of a sanatorium.
Today it is a state park that offers camping, hiking, picnicking with great views and rock climbing. Of the park's 27-mile trail system, about 20 miles of trails lower on the mountain are shared by hikers and mountain bikers. The upper trails are for foot use only.
There is primitive camping at Monte Sano and 89 developed campsites. Fourteen rustic cottages near a cliff overlook the valley. Also of interest are the nearby Burritt Museum, devoted to regional history, and the Von Braun Planetarium within the park.