The Alabama Mountains, Rivers & Valleys Resource Conservation & Development Council awarded the Land Trust of North Alabama a $5,000 grant through the North Alabama Trail & Recreation Program (NATR) to support trail improvements and maintenance at Cane Creek Canyon Nature Preserve in Colbert County.

Cane Creek Canyon is 693-acre natural refuge providing home to a broad diversity of plant and animal species. The property, located near Tuscumbia, offers an extensive trail system for visitors to explore each weekend (Friday – Sunday from 7 AM – 5 PM). This nature preserve was privately owned and maintained for many years by the Lacefield family, who donated the property to the Land Trust of North Alabama at the beginning of 2023.

With this generous funding provided through the North Alabama Trail & Recreation Program (NATR), the Land Trust can enhance sustainability of the trails and ensure the best possible experience for visitors to experience this spectacular property. Volunteers can help with this project by participating in scheduled work days throughout the year. No experience is required to participate but you must be at least 18 years old to join. Land Trust staff will provide all the tools and instruction needed. Upcoming work days and volunteer registration is available on our event calendar.

In addition to general trail maintenance, this grant project will see the improvement of two bridges, including widening the walkways and adding ramp approaches. Approximately 100 feet of cable hand guides will also be installed along several steep sections of trail to improve safety for trail users. Two new interpretive signs will offer engaging content for visitors to learn more about the natural environment around them. All planned trail improvements are intended to increase safety, access, and information about the trails and the preserve.

You’ll find everything you need to plan a visit to Cane Creek Canyon Nature Preserve, download a trail map, and register for upcoming events at landtrustnal.org/cane-creek-canyon-preserve.