One of my preferred features of Tuscaloosa is the Black Warrior River, then 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 town and served as a transferation route for the coal and timber industries in the nineteenth century, but old mill sites and the historic districts of the town are remnants of the river’s historical importance. I enjoy sauntering along the Riverwalk and appreciating the stunning views. There are historical makers along the trail that supply 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 beginning blooming in the Spring, I like to picnic at one of the riverside parks. I watch for songbirds and all odd types of waterfowl, however during the summer, the heat and humidity in Tuscaloosa can be brutal. The river is an chance 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.