Old Cahawba Prairie Preserve: Alabama's Natural Black Belt Beauty
Discover Alabama's Black Belt prairie: Hike, birdwatch, and explore the natural beauty of Old Cahawba Prairie Preserve.
Explore the Old Cahawba Prairie Preserve, a 3,000-acre natural haven in Alabama's Black Belt. Hike through remnant blackland prairie, observe diverse wildlife, and connect with the region's unique ecological history. A true escape into nature's serenity.
A brief summary to Old Cahawba Prairie Preserve
- Orrville, Alabama, 36767, US
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes and bring water, especially for longer hikes, as the trails can be uneven.
- Visit during the spring or fall for the best weather and to witness peak bird migration.
- Bring binoculars for optimal wildlife viewing, especially for birdwatching.
- Check the hunting season schedule if planning a visit during the fall or winter.
- Combine your visit with a trip to the Old Cahawba Archaeological Park to explore Alabama's history.
Getting There
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Driving
From downtown Selma, take AL-22 West (also known as Dallas Avenue) for approximately 8.6 miles. Turn left (south) onto County Road 9 and continue for about 2 miles to the first parking lot on the left. Continue on County Road 9 for another mile to reach the second parking lot on the left. For the third parking area, continue on County Road 9 for approximately 0.3 miles to Cahaba Road, then turn right and drive about 0.5 miles. There are no fees for parking at the preserve.
Discover more about Old Cahawba Prairie Preserve
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Old Cahawba Prairie Preserve
0.0 km
Discover Alabama's Black Belt prairie: Hike, birdwatch, and explore the natural beauty of Old Cahawba Prairie Preserve.
Adams Grove Presbyterian Church
10.2 km
Explore a historic Greek Revival church in rural Alabama, complete with original architecture and a serene, storied cemetery.
The Sandbar
11.7 km
Enjoy Southern cuisine with a waterfront view at The Sandbar, Selma's scenic grill and restaurant on the Alabama River.
Bloch Park
12.5 km
Discover Selma's historic Bloch Park: a green oasis offering recreation, sports, and community events for all ages.
Riverview Historic District
13.0 km
Experience the rich history and stunning architecture of Riverview Historic District in Selma, Alabama, a testament to the nation's past.
Icehouse Historic District
13.4 km
Discover the rich history and architectural beauty of the Icehouse Historic District in Selma, Alabama—a must-visit for history enthusiasts and curious travelers.
905 Gallery
13.8 km
Discover curated Southern art at Gallery 905 in Selma, Alabama, where community and creativity thrive.
Organpi Farms Farmhouse
13.9 km
Explore the bounty of Selma at Organpi Farms Farmhouse, where fresh produce meets local flavor and community spirit.
Queen City Kale
13.9 km
Experience the flavors of Selma at Queen City Kale, where fresh ingredients and creative dishes come together in a vibrant setting.
Mabry-Jones House
13.9 km
Discover Selma's history at the Mabry-Jones House, a beautiful example of Greek Revival architecture and home to notable figures.
Sleeping Prophet Edgar Cayce Memorial
14.0 km
Explore the Edgar Cayce Memorial in Selma, Alabama, a historic landmark celebrating the legacy of America's most famous clairvoyant and his insights on spirituality and healing.
John Tyler Morgan House
14.0 km
Visit the historic John Tyler Morgan House in Selma, Alabama, home to a Confederate General and long-serving U.S. Senator.
Bridgetender's House
14.0 km
Step back in time at the Bridgetender's House in Selma, AL – a historic cottage with stunning river views and a rich past.
St. James Hotel Selma, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
14.1 km
Experience Southern charm at St. James Hotel Selma, where history meets modern comfort along the beautiful Alabama River.
The Coffee Shoppe
14.1 km
Discover the heart of Selma at The Coffee Shoppe, where delightful brews and local charm create the perfect café experience.
Unmissable attractions to see
Lions Fair Park
9.8 km
A community hub in Selma, Alabama, hosting the annual Central Alabama Fair and various local events.
New Live Oak Cemetery
12.1 km
Discover Selma's past in a serene setting, where history and nature intertwine among the monuments and ancient trees of New Live Oak Cemetery.
Vaughan Smitherman Museum
13.4 km
Explore Selma's vibrant past within the walls of this historic Greek Revival landmark, from Civil War relics to hospital artifacts.
National Voting Rights Museum and Institute
13.7 km
Explore the pivotal history of the Voting Rights Movement in Selma, AL, honoring the brave activists who fought for equality. A must-see Civil Rights landmark.
Civil Rights Memorial Park
13.8 km
Reflect on the courageous fight for equality at Selma's Civil Rights Memorial Park, honoring pivotal events and figures of the movement.
Sturdivant Hall Museum
13.8 km
Experience the grandeur of the Old South at Sturdivant Hall, a beautifully preserved Greek Revival mansion in historic Selma, Alabama.
Old Town Historic District
13.9 km
Explore Selma's Old Town Historic District: A journey through time, architecture, and the heart of the Civil Rights Movement.
Edmund Pettus Bridge
13.9 km
Walk in the footsteps of civil rights heroes on this iconic bridge, a powerful symbol of the fight for voting rights and equality in Selma, Alabama.
Selma Interpretive Center of the Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail
14.0 km
Discover the starting point of the historic Selma to Montgomery march, a pivotal landmark in the Civil Rights Movement.
Historic Riverfront Park
14.2 km
Explore Selma's Historic Riverfront Park: A scenic waterfront park with Civil Rights history, river views, and a peaceful atmosphere.
Enslavement & Civil War Museum
14.3 km
Explore the compelling history of African Americans from ancient Africa through enslavement and the Civil War at this Selma museum.
Bridge Crossing Jubilee
14.3 km
Commemorating the Selma to Montgomery marches and the Voting Rights Act, honoring civil rights history and the fight for equality.
Old Depot Museum
14.4 km
Explore Selma's vibrant history at the Old Depot Museum, from Native American artifacts to the Civil Rights Movement.
Brown Chapel AME Church
14.6 km
Visit the historic Brown Chapel AME Church in Selma, Alabama, a pivotal landmark in the Civil Rights Movement and the fight for voting rights.
Tabernacle Baptist Church
14.7 km
Visit Tabernacle Baptist Church in Selma, a historic landmark and pivotal site in the Civil Rights Movement, showcasing courage and resilience.
Essential places to dine
Hancocks Barbeque
8.0 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue at Hancocks Barbeque in Selma, AL—where every bite is a taste of tradition and flavor.
Jack's
10.5 km
Experience authentic Southern fast food at Jack's in Selma - where hearty meals meet friendly service in a welcoming atmosphere.
Hancock Bbq
12.0 km
Experience the true taste of Southern barbecue at Hancock Bbq in Selma, Alabama - where flavor meets tradition.
Lannie's Bar-B-Q #2
13.5 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue at Lannie's Bar-B-Q #2 in Selma, Alabama - where flavor meets tradition.
Dallas Bar-B-Que
13.7 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue at Dallas Bar-B-Que in Selma - where smoky flavors meet hearty hospitality.
Reflections Coffee Shoppe
13.9 km
Experience warmth and flavor at Reflections Coffee Shoppe in Selma – your go-to spot for delicious coffee and local charm.
Gab n grab
14.0 km
Experience the heart of American cuisine at Gab n Grab in Selma, Alabama – where comfort food meets Southern hospitality.
5 & Dime
14.0 km
Experience authentic American cuisine at 5 & Dime in Selma, Alabama - where every meal tells a story.
MK87
14.0 km
Discover MK87 in Selma: A delightful sandwich shop offering locally-sourced flavors in a welcoming atmosphere.
Bistro Manila (and Boba Manila)
14.0 km
Experience authentic Filipino cuisine and delicious bubble tea at Bistro Manila in Selma, Alabama – where every meal tells a story.
Sterling's
14.1 km
Discover the heart of American cuisine at Sterling's in Selma - where Southern hospitality meets delicious home-cooked meals.
The Downtowner Restaurant
14.1 km
Experience family-friendly dining at The Downtowner Restaurant in Selma – where delicious comfort food meets warm hospitality.
Macks Amillion Daiquiri shop
14.1 km
Discover refreshing frozen daiquiris at Macks Amillion Daiquiri Shop in Selma, Alabama - where flavor meets fun in a vibrant setting.
Munch Box
14.1 km
Discover Munch Box: A cozy breakfast spot in Selma offering delicious meals that capture the essence of Southern hospitality.
Xpression
14.1 km
Discover Xpression in Selma: A culinary gem offering delicious Southern cuisine and warm hospitality in a vibrant setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Minit Shop
13.0 km
Discover the convenience of Minit Shop in Selma, Alabama – your go-to place for snacks, drinks, and essentials during your travels.
Frames 'N Things
13.3 km
Discover unique gifts and custom picture frames at Frames 'N Things in Selma, Alabama – a beloved local destination for shoppers of all kinds.
Johnny's Package Store
13.7 km
Explore Johnny's Package Store in Selma, AL - your go-to spot for local liquor, convenience services, and a taste of Southern hospitality.
Selma Curb Market
13.7 km
Explore local flavors and community spirit at Selma Curb Market, your go-to grocery store in Selma, Alabama, offering fresh produce and unique artisanal goods.
Cahaba Products
13.8 km
Discover the taste of Selma at Cahaba Products, where local culinary treasures and artisanal flavors await you.
Gantt Candies LLC
13.8 km
Explore the charming Gantt Candies LLC in Selma, Alabama, for a delightful selection of homemade candies that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
Cotton House
13.9 km
Discover Cotton House in Selma, Alabama - a boutique clothing store offering unique fashion pieces and a warm shopping experience.
Gordon's Antiques and Estate Sales
13.9 km
Explore a unique collection of antiques and vintage treasures at Gordon's Antiques and Estate Sales in Selma, Alabama, where history comes alive.
Queen City Market
14.0 km
Explore unique clothing and home goods at Queen City Market, Selma's charm-filled boutique offering local fashion and gifts.
allez-oup
14.0 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish finds at Allez-Oup, Selma's charming gift shop and boutique featuring baby clothing and women's fashion.
Broad Street Books
14.0 km
Explore Broad Street Books, Selma's charming bookstore offering a diverse selection of literature in a cozy atmosphere.
On Time Fashions
14.0 km
Discover the latest trends in men's fashion at On Time Fashions, Selma's go-to destination for stylish clothing and accessories.
This & That
14.1 km
Discover unique home goods and local treasures at This & That, a charming store in Selma, Alabama, where Southern hospitality meets quality craftsmanship.
Odds and Ends Gift Shop
14.1 km
Explore Selma’s Odds and Ends Gift Shop for unique local gifts, handcrafted treasures, and a taste of Southern charm.
Snack Store
14.1 km
Explore Selma's Snack Store for quick bites, refreshments, and local products in a convenient, friendly setting.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Mary Taylor Bar
5.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious seafood at Mary Taylor Bar, a hidden gem in Alabama's coastal beauty.
Mitchell Bar
6.1 km
Explore the vibrant underwater world of Mitchell Bar, a stunning reef in Alabama, where adventure and marine beauty await every visitor.
King Bar
6.7 km
Discover the wonders of King Bar, a vibrant reef destination in Alabama offering stunning marine life and a relaxing atmosphere for every tourist.
Rifleman Bar
10.3 km
Experience the heart of Alabama at Rifleman Bar - a cozy retreat for drinks, stories, and local culture.
Upper Sister Bar
11.8 km
Explore the vibrant marine life and stunning coral formations at Upper Sister Bar, a must-visit reef destination in Alabama for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Dallas County
13.3 km
Experience the vibrancy of Dallas County's gay bar scene in Selma, Alabama, a celebration of diversity, culture, and community.
Michael's Pub
13.7 km
Discover the lively nightlife and warm atmosphere of Michael's Pub in Selma, Alabama, where great drinks and good company await you.
Middle Sister Bar
14.0 km
Explore the serene beauty of Middle Sister Bar in Alabama, a stunning reef destination perfect for adventure and relaxation.
Sparkle's Saloon
14.2 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Sparkle's Saloon, a charming bar in Selma, Alabama, offering refreshing drinks and a taste of local culture.
Dripz Lounge
14.2 km
Discover the charm of Dripz Lounge in Selma, Alabama – your go-to bar for a taste of local nightlife and a cozy atmosphere.
XPLOSION
14.9 km
Experience the thrill of sports at XPLOSION, Selma's go-to sports bar with delicious bites and a vibrant atmosphere.
Southern Comfort Lounge
15.9 km
Experience Southern charm at the Southern Comfort Lounge in Selma, Alabama, where live music and delicious cocktails create unforgettable moments.
Providence Bar
16.6 km
Explore the stunning reef landscapes of Providence Bar in Alabama, a serene escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Upper Portland Bar
17.9 km
Discover the serene beauty of Upper Portland Bar in Alabama, a perfect retreat for relaxation and local flavor amidst stunning landscapes.
Lower Portland Bar
18.3 km
Explore the serene beauty of Lower Portland Bar, Alabama's hidden gem, where nature and adventure come together in stunning harmony.