Blazing new trails
the healthy way to connect
people and places

Our Mission

River Region Trails, Inc. is committed to developing a network of pedestrian greenways, parks, and outdoor resources in the River Region. The organization will coordinate the efforts of citizens, corporate partners, and local governments to plan, fund, and develop natural space for public use, which will invariably have a positive impact on community health, quality of life, economic development, transportation, and neighborhood connectivity.

two women power walking together on a recreational trail

recreational trails throughout Montgomery

About the Project

An exciting new project is now underway in the Capital City. River Region Trails is developing a network of recreational trails throughout Montgomery. These trails will join points throughout the city, making safe places to walk, jog and bike.

In phase one, a 30-mile connected loop of pedestrian trail will link downtown to east Montgomery, including many neighborhoods in between. It will follow existing and abandoned rail lines, creek beds, streets and sidewalks with surfaces chosen for the needs of the neighborhoods it touches.

At the same time, we will build a trail system, nature center and boardwalk through the beautiful 260-acre Cypress Nature Preserve near downtown. This will provide opportunities for schoolchildren and other visitors to learn about the park and its inhabitants.

board of directors

Shapard Ashley – President
John Steiner – Vice President
Sandy Coaker – Treasurer
Will O’Connor – Secretary
Rashim McKinney
Roger W. Mangham
Trey Hayes
Jody McInnes
Jonathan Avant
Lora McClendon

Benefits

greenway along a residential neighborhood

Positive Impact on Property Value

Studies show that trails and greenways can typically increase residential urban and suburban property values from 2 to 5 percent.

Improved Health

Montgomerians will have safe, inexpensive and ready access to nature, with its known mental and physical benefits—including regular exercise.

woman riding a bike on a greenway trail through a city

Economic Development

The trails will help attract and retain businesses by providing workers with a premium city amenity.

handlebars of a bike riding through a trail in a park

Community Health and Wellness

Readily accessible green spaces allow Montgomerians to become more physically active outdoors.

Quality of Life

Safe, interconnected trails provide opportunities for recreation and connections with nature, while engaging the community.

man and woman walking together on a greenway trail in nature

Economic Spark

With a trail system that attracts so many visitors, our entire region benefits, including underserved communities.

man riding his bike to work on a trail through a city

Alternative Transportation

For the first time, Montgomery will be able to offer a wide infrastructure to enable safe walking and biking options across long distances.

man and woman hiking on a nature trail with walking sticks

Tourism and Recruitment

River Region Trails creates even more reasons for people to visit—and stay to live and work—in our communities.

family running together on a trail in nature

Neighborhood Connection

More than simply physically connecting neighborhoods, the new trail system will encourage people to come together as proud citizens.

Environmental Education

The former Cypress Nature Park will host a dedicated nature center and boardwalk, allowing visitors to learn about our local ecosystem.

What’s New Get the Word Out on the Trails

Downtown Walking Routes

River Region Trails is working with the City of Montgomery to develop and mark downtown walking routes for citizens and visitors alike. The routes will feature distinct wayfinding markers and will safely lead users to landmarks throughout downtown.

Vision Plan

River Region Trails is currently fundraising for our Vision Plan, the first step in a larger overall Master Plan for Cypress Nature Park and the Greenways network. The master plan is a 14-18 month process that will help us fully digest previous planning efforts, such as the Envision 2040 Plan. It will also help to evaluate the

Envision 2040

On July 7, the City of Montgomery adopted its first long-range strategic plan in more than 50 years. Called Envision 2040, this plan articulates a shared vision for the community to be realized through a variety of strategic recommendations. We are excited that Envision 2040 boldly calls out the development of a trail network as a distinct need

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is River Region Trails?

River Region Trails, Inc. is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization committed to developing a network of pedestrian greenways, trails, parks and outdoor resources in Montgomery and surrounding counties.

Where will the Trails start?

There will be multiple trailheads throughout the City. Our efforts will begin with trails in the beautiful Cypress Nature Park and connecting those to existing Riverfront Greenway.

Where will the Trails go next?

Eventually, we plan to connect points many areas throughout the city, for a continuous, safe network of trails to walk, hike and bike. Our plan includes trails stretching from west Montgomery, through downtown, and all the way to Pike Road, as well as segments in south and central Montgomery. The network will reach almost every neighborhood in the City.

Will there be any amenities besides the trails themselves?

Yes. We plan to build a dedicated nature center and boardwalk that will provide opportunities for schoolchildren and other visitors to learn about the park and its inhabitants.

Who are the trails designed for?

Everyone in Montgomery is invited to enjoy the trails, especially residents who need safe ways to get out and about to enjoy nature. The trails are designed to encourage recreation and safe transportation for all citizens. Visitors from across the region will be welcome too. The planned nature center will welcome those from all walks of life and interests—photographers, bird watchers, hikers, bikers, and nature lovers.

How can I help?

Glad you asked! You can help the Trails along by donating today, volunteering your time, becoming a sponsor, signing up for news updates, and spreading the word about the project.

How You Can Help

Become a Volunteer

We need more ambassadors to make River Region Trails a reality.

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Blazing new trails the healthy way to connect people and places