Cahaba River National Wildlife Refuge

The rolling uplands surrounding the Cahaba River are forested with longleaf and loblolly pines. Mixed upland hardwood species line ravines and the river's edge. Established September 25, 2002 to protect and manage a distinctive section of the river and land adjacent to it, Cahaba River National...

Available species include largemouth bass, sunfish and catfish. The unique system of pools and shoals within the refuge provide many opportunities to wade and fish or bank fish. A ramp is available for canoe or jon boat launching (no launching from boat trailer).

Across the country, wildlife observation is the most popular activity for refuge visitors. So if you enjoy getting outdoors and looking for wildlife, consider a walk down the Piper Trail or along River Trace Road. Don’t forget to check out the trail that extends across Caffee Creek and continues...

Whether you have expensive equipment or just a cell phone, refuges are a great place to capture wildlife on camera! Cahaba River National Wildlife Refuge has a variety of locations good for wildlife and landscape photography. Want to share your picture? Post it onto the refuge’s Facebook page or...

The refuge is also an excellent place to paddle along the Cahaba River. There are various points along River Trace Road to put in and take out your canoe or kayak. 

The refuge has over 6.5 miles of trails. Our most popular trail is the Piper Trail located off County Road 24. This trail was built by the Friends of the Cahaba River NWR on a former railroad bed and has two overlooks that give visitors amazing views of the Cahaba River.

Looking for a some way to spice up Family Time? Bring a picnic lunch to the refuge and explore the river, trails and wildlife that call these woods home! 

Jogging is allowed on all refuge roads and trails, except for those designated as interpretive trails.

Bicycling is allowed on any road open to vehicle traffic.