One of my favorite features of Tuscaloosa is the Black Warrior River.
It provides a source of natural beauty and recreational activities.
The river is named for the Native American Trive, the “Warrior” tribe, who once inhabited the area. The winds through the city and served as a transportation route for the coal and timber industries in the nineteenth century. Old mill sites and the historic districts of the city are remnants of the river’s historical importance. I enjoy strolling along the Riverwalk and appreciating the stunning views. There are historical makers along the trail that provide information into the region’s past. From the Native American heritage, the Civil War ear and the industrial revolution, the river is an integral component. When the magnolias, dogwoods and azaleas start blooming in the spring, I like to picnic at one of the riverside parks. I watch for songbirds and all different types of waterfowl. During the summer, the heat and humidity in Tuscaloosa can be brutal. The river is an opportunity to cool off. I can kayak and canoe on the calm waters. To get my heart pumping, I sometimes jog or ride my back along the trails. Although I’m not a fan of fishing, there are bass, catfish and crappie in the river that bring in lots of fishermen. At all times per, the Black Warrior River is the scene of a wide variety of festivals and community events. There are live music performances, art exhibitions and the annual “Tuscaloosa Dragon Boat Races.” Teams paddle intricate dragon boats for a fun spectacle.