Cahaba River National Wildlife Refuge: Alabama's Natural Gem
Discover Alabama's Cahaba River National Wildlife Refuge: A haven for biodiversity, outdoor recreation, and the iconic Cahaba Lily.
The Cahaba River National Wildlife Refuge protects a unique and biodiverse section of Alabama's longest free-flowing river. Established in 2002, the refuge is home to endangered species and the stunning Cahaba Lily, offering opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and immersion in nature.
A brief summary to Cahaba River National Wildlife Refuge
- 3WXQ+6MJ, West Blocton, Alabama, US
- +1256-848-6833
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit in May or June to witness the spectacular bloom of the Cahaba Lilies [5, 7, 9].
- Check water levels before visiting, as the river can be swift and dangerous after rains [3, 11].
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching; the refuge is home to diverse bird species [9, 15].
- Be prepared for a narrow gravel road with limited parking [2, 4].
- Consider visiting the annual Cahaba Lily Festival in West Blocton [2, 5, 9].
Getting There
-
Driving
The Cahaba River National Wildlife Refuge is located approximately six miles east of West Blocton, Alabama [3, 7]. From I-20/59, take Exit 97 and go south on Hwy 11 for 3 miles to Hwy 5 [3, 5]. Turn left onto Hwy 5 south and follow it for approximately 9 miles to County Road 24 [3]. Turn left onto CR 24 and continue for about 6 miles [3]. Look for the refuge sign on the right; River Trace, a dirt road, will be shortly after the sign on the right [5]. Be aware that River Trace Road is a narrow gravel road [2, 16]. There is no fee to enter the refuge [8]. Parking is available, but can be limited, especially during peak visitation times [4]. Checking weather and water levels before visiting is highly recommended [3].
Discover more about Cahaba River National Wildlife Refuge
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park
16.4 km
Experience the intersection of history and nature at Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park, where Alabama's industrial past meets stunning outdoor recreation.
Tannehill Grist Mill
17.8 km
Experience Alabama's past at the Tannehill Grist Mill, a living history exhibit within a 1,500-acre historical state park. Explore rural life and industrial heritage.
Owen Plantation House
28.7 km
Discover 19th-century Alabama at the Owen Plantation House, a beautifully preserved historical landmark in Bessemer.
Sloss Mines Hoist House
36.3 km
Explore Birmingham's industrial heritage at the Sloss Mines Hoist House, a window into the region's iron ore mining past on Red Mountain.
Hoist House at Redding Shaft Mine
41.7 km
Explore Birmingham's mining history at the Hoist House, a preserved landmark in Red Mountain Park offering a glimpse into the past.
CMX Hollywood 16 & IMAX
46.0 km
Experience the ultimate in cinema at CMX Hollywood 16 & IMAX: stadium seating, cutting-edge technology, and a wide selection of movies!
Paul W. Bryant Museum
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The University of Alabama
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Druid City Brewing Company Taproom & Ell's Kitchen
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Alabama Museum of Natural History
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Smith Hall
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Woods Quad
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Gorgas House Museum
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Bryant-Denny Stadium
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Vestavia Temple of Sibyl
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Unmissable attractions to see
Cahaba River Trace
0.1 km
Discover scenic trails, diverse wildlife, and the tranquil Cahaba River at this natural Alabama escape near West Blocton.
Pratt's Ferry Cahaba River Preserve
9.0 km
Explore the Cahaba River's natural beauty at Pratt's Ferry Preserve: canoeing, wildflowers, and unique Alabama flora await!
William R. Ireland, Sr. - Cahaba River Wildlife Management Area
10.2 km
Explore Alabama's natural beauty: hike scenic trails, fish in pristine waters, and observe diverse wildlife in this protected Cahaba River haven.
Pavilion at Cahaba River Park
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Cahaba River Park
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Explore Alabama's natural beauty at Cahaba River Park: hiking, biking, canoeing, and scenic trails await!
Brierfield Iron Works Park
12.3 km
Explore Alabama's industrial heritage at Brierfield Ironworks Historical State Park: a unique blend of Civil War history and natural beauty.
Adventure Shoals
16.0 km
Float down the Cahaba River with Adventure Shoals for a refreshing tubing experience surrounded by Alabama's natural beauty and diverse wildlife.
Falling Rock Falls Trail Head
16.8 km
Discover a hidden waterfall near Montevallo, Alabama, with a short hike to a stunning 90-foot cascade and explore the cavern behind the falls.
Cahaba Riverwalk and Canoe launch
18.5 km
Explore the Cahaba River's beauty: Paddle, walk, and discover nature at Centreville's accessible riverfront park and canoe launch.
The American Village
22.1 km
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American Village Citizenship Trust
22.2 km
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Buck Creek Park
26.9 km
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Cahaba Lily Park
27.9 km
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Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum
29.0 km
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Joe Tucker Park
29.0 km
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Essential places to dine
Tre Luna Bar and Kitchen
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Walk-On's Sports Bistreaux - Stadium Trace Restaurant
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Margarita Grill
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Chick-fil-A
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Creekside BBQ
37.0 km
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Cracker Barrel Old Country Store
37.1 km
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Texas Roadhouse
37.4 km
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The Grille
38.3 km
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First Watch
38.6 km
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J. Alexander's Restaurant
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Jim 'N Nick's Bar-B-Q
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Wright's Restaurant
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Flavaz Seafood & Soulfood Restaurant
44.4 km
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Olive Garden Italian Restaurant
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Metro Diner
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Square 1 Boutique
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All Things Fun and Vintage
19.2 km
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BamaBoujeeBoutique
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Talladega National Forest
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The Marketplace by Hatching Hope
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Cal ES
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Nostalgia
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Vintage Interiors
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Encore Home
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Myrtle Jane's South
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El Viejo Este LLC
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Gifted
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Oak Mountain Hobbies & Toys - Drones, RC Cars, Trains, Parts & Service Shop
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The Beveled Edge
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Academy Sports + Outdoors
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Rio's Bar & Grill
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Goodfellas Social Club
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El Santuario
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The Wine Bunker - Whiskey & Wine Bar
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Lil Bits Tavern
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bar
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The Beer Hog
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The Chandelier Lounge
36.2 km
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Taco Mac Pelham
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Applebee's Grill + Bar
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Hooters
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Pub 261
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Blue's Bourbon & Brews
36.8 km
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Ragtime Cafe
37.9 km
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Twin Peaks
38.5 km
Experience the excitement of live sports and delicious American cuisine at Twin Peaks, Hoover's ultimate sports bar destination.
