This short section of the river flows through the heart of the Cahaba River National Wildlife Refuge and is an ideal place to observe wildlife of all kinds as you slowly make your way through the large shoals that support an amazing diversity of fish, snails, and mussels. These shoals also harbor an abundant population of Cahaba lilies, which bloom each year between early and mid-May. A prime time to see the lilys is during the Cahaba Lily Festival, which is held each May in nearby in West Blocton, and features paddling excursions to see the lilies in the refuge.