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Cahaba River Park: A Natural Escape

Explore Alabama's natural beauty: hiking, biking, and water activities await at Cahaba River Park in Helena.

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Cahaba River Park, a joint venture between the Alabama Forever Wild Land Trust and Shelby County, is a scenic park where the Cahaba River and Shades Creek meet [1, 4]. With over 1,500 acres, the park offers diverse outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and swimming [3, 4].

A brief summary to Cahaba River Park

  • Monday 7 am-8 pm
  • Tuesday 7 am-7:30 pm
  • Wednesday 7 am-7:30 pm
  • Thursday 7 am-7:30 pm
  • Friday 7 am-8 pm
  • Saturday 7 am-7:30 pm
  • Sunday 7 am-7:30 pm

Local tips

  • Bring appropriate footwear for hiking or biking, as trails vary in difficulty and terrain [12].
  • Check water levels before planning water activities like canoeing or swimming to ensure safety [1, 2].
  • Visit during the week to avoid weekend crowds and enjoy a quieter experience of the park's natural beauty.
  • Bring insect repellent, especially during warmer months, to protect against mosquitoes and other insects.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Cahaba River Park is accessible by car via River Road (County Road 251) off County Road 13, west of Helena [1]. From I-65, take Exit 242 in Pelham, then take Hwy 52 W, County Road 52, and County Road 13 to River Road [2]. There are multiple parking areas within the North Sector of the park [1]. Parking is free.

  • Walking

    For those staying in Helena, Cahaba River Park is accessible via a walk along County Road 13 and River Road. From downtown Helena, the walk is approximately 5 miles. Be aware that there are no sidewalks on County Road 13 or River Road, so caution should be taken.

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Discover more about Cahaba River Park

Cahaba River Park offers a refreshing escape into nature with a variety of activities for outdoor enthusiasts [3, 4]. The park is a joint venture between the Alabama Forever Wild Land Trust and Shelby County [1, 4]. It is located at the confluence of the Cahaba River and Shades Creek, encompassing over 1,500 acres of scenic beauty [1, 4]. The park is divided into a North and South Sector, with the North Sector being the developed portion of the park [1]. The North Sector features around 30 miles of multi-use trails for hiking, mountain biking, and trail running, including 21 miles of professionally designed single-track trails [1]. The trails wind through diverse landscapes, from ridgetop pine forests to the banks of the Cahaba River and Shades Creek [1]. Visitors can enjoy several river miles for canoeing, kayaking, swimming, and fishing when water levels safely permit [1, 2]. Three river access points with parking are available within the North Sector [1]. Other recreational activities include picnicking, wildlife viewing, and birding [4]. The park also features three pavilions, two of which have connected restrooms [1]. The South Sector remains largely undeveloped, offering a more primitive experience for those seeking solitude and immersion in nature [1]. Future plans include additional single-track trails, canoe/kayak launch sites, and a primitive camping area in the South Sector [4].

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