The Cahaba River is a hidden treasure in Alabama. The Cahaba is the longest river in Alabama and is one of the most biodiverse rivers of its size in the entire world! In this one local river, you can find 135 fish species, 32 species of snails, and 48 types of freshwater mussels. Thankfully, there are many ways for you and your family to explore the Cahaba River!
Cahaba Lily Festival
Held in West Blocton each May, The Cahaba Lily Festival is a time to celebrate this unique flower of the Cahaba. This fun festival includes a Miss Cahaba Lily Pageant, vendors, children’s play area, educational presentations, and trips to the river.
Hiking
There are several places to hike along the river. For a short walk, visit Mountain Brook’s Cahaba Riverwalk. Enjoy seeing beautiful white Cahaba lilies from mid-May to mid-June at the Cahaba River National Wildlife Refuge in Bibb County. You can download a free coloring and activity book from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to help teach your kids about National Parks and how to care for nature.
Fishing
There are several spots along the Cahaba River that welcome anglers, like the following:
- The Highway 280 Dam
- Lake Purdy
- Cahaba National Wildlife Refuge in West Blocton
- The Cahaba Historical Park in Centreville
- The Perry Lake Park
Check out our post on local fishing for details about each site. Don’t forget to obtain your Alabama fishing license and consult the Alabama Department of Public Health’s Advisory on Safe Fish Consumption before grabbing your rod and reel.
Canoeing, Kayaking, and Paddle Boarding
The Cahaba Blueway is a “water trail” along the river. This project has developed recommendations on how to safely access the river. They also have tons of great tips on how to make your trip on the river safe and enjoyable. The interactive Blueway Map has details about each access point and makes choosing water entry and exit points easy.
Swimming
Swimming is allowed in the Cahaba River, but be sure you follow water safety. Lifejackets are recommended, especially for those who are not strong swimmers or in water above knee level. The Cahaba Riverkeeper Swim Guide Program monitors water quality and can help you identify areas that are safe to swim in.
Educational Programs
Classes and other small groups can learn more about conservation, water resources, and the Cahaba’s ecosystem through a Stream Walk or Canoe Trip. These programs begin at $15 per person, but scholarships are available.
Conservation
Groups like the Cahaba River Society are working to ensure that the Cahaba continues to be a place where native animals and plants can thrive. Do you and your family want to help protect the Cahaba River and the plants and animals who call it home? Consider joining the Cahaba River Society, purchasing a Save the Cahaba car tag, or volunteering for one of their River Clean-Up days or other conservation efforts to protect the Cahaba River.
How will you explore the Cahaba River?
Be sure to check out Oak Mountain State Park for more outdoor adventures!
