By GRAHAM BROOKS / Staff Writer

HELENA – Both residents and visitors to Shelby County who have interests in a variety of outdoor activities now have a new park to enjoy, as the Cahaba River Park opened with a special ribbon cutting ceremony on Monday, April 22.

The Shelby County Commission, along with collaborative partners the Board of Trustees of the Forever Wild Land Trust and staff of the Alabama Department of Conservation-State Lands Division held the ribbon cutting ceremony at the new park located at 2793 River Road off Shelby County 251 in Helena.

The new Cahaba River Park includes activities for canoeing, fishing, hiking, kayaking, mountain biking, swimming and features amenities such as an outdoor shower, a picnic pavilion, restrooms and a walking trail.

The park also features more than 12 miles of single track and more than five miles of double track hiking and biking trails and endless opportunities to enjoy unique views of the treasured Cahaba River.

The 1,339 acre north sector features 17 miles of professionally designed and constructed trails for hiking, mountain biking and trail running enthusiasts. Other recreation activities are available to the public such as open space relaxing, viewing scenery, wildlife, birding and picnicking.

An additional 188 acres is located in the south sector at the end of Shelby County 251 off Shelby County 10 in the west of Montevallo.

There are currently three parking areas and a caretaker house is also on the property to facilitate maintenance and safety within the park.

Additional support for trail construction was made available by the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs Recreational Trails Program.

For more information on Cahaba River Park, visit Discovershelby.com/Facilities.aspx?Page=detail&RID=78.