NEW: Trussville’s Cahaba River Tree Trail now open [PHOTOS]

Tree-lovers unite!

The Friends of Pinchgut Creek along with the Alabama Scenic River Trail and the Cahaba River Society have made a special place for those who love nature.

Read on to learn all about the Cahaba River Tree Trail and its grand opening.

Cahaba River meets Riparian forest

If there’s one thing I learned on this hike, it’s how important these trees are to our home.

The Cahaba River Tree Trail features 22 signed trees, all native to Alabama. 

Each tree serves a purpose, whether it’s attracting bees and other wildlife or supplying farmers with wood. The trees on this trail are part of the Riparian forest and help maintain water routes, stabilize water temperatures and reduce sediment.

In an effort to protect the Cahaba River—one of the most diverse waterways in the world—this forest provides safety for vital headwaters.

Jean Cox, the Executive Director of Friends of Pinchgut, used to come to the site with her kids many years ago and feel at home in nature’s den. Over time, she noticed the need for more awareness on preserving native forests.

With help from the Alabama Scenic River Trail and the Cahaba River Society, she was able to create a masterpiece that would catch the eye of nature-lovers around Alabama.

“We really wanted to make this trail to help people understand how important our forests are for the health of our rivers.

These little areas of woods are providing habitats to a lot of critters, helping our rivers and also giving people a place to feel like they’re escaping into the woods without having to drive to the state parks.”

Jean Cox, Executive Director, Friends of Pinchgut Creek

A home to Alabama’s diverse trees

One of the most important aspects of this trail is the various trees it houses.

Some of these species include:

• American Beech
• Blackgum
• Hornbeam
• Swamp Chestnut Oak
• Tulip-Poplar

Not only do the trees have unusual advantages, but the leaves do too. The Bitternut Hickory has leaves that are high in calcium, can help improve soil and the wood can be used to make tools.

“I’m super excited for people to be learning more about our native trees. The plan for this trail was to be a way to help people learn more about the trees, the river and the importance of the forest to the health of the river.”

Jean Cox, Executive Director, Friends of Pinchgut Creek

A huge thanks to Jean, the Friends of Pinchgut Creek, the Alabama Scenic River Trail and the Cahaba River Society for creating such a spectacular place.

What is your favorite Alabama trail? Let us know by tagging us @bhamnow!