The Singing River Trail is a planned 200+ mile regional greenway network stretching from the Shoals to Chattanooga, connecting North Alabama communities along and to the Tennessee River through a continuous spine of trails, greenways, and outdoor recreational assets. Across North Alabama, this emerging network has the potential to unify a series of natural, cultural, and economic destinations—linking major job centers, small towns, state and national parks, and some of the region’s most iconic landscapes. As one of the most geographically diverse counties along the route, Jackson County represents a critical missing link in achieving a seamless, region-wide system.

​

Through extensive geospatial analysis, fieldwork, and collaboration with local officials, we found that Jackson County could support a continuous paved trail spine, complemented by an expansive “SRT+” network of backcountry hiking and paddling routes. The team recommended a main trail alignment that safely connects each municipality using buffered sidepaths, greenways, and key on-road improvements, while tying into major natural and cultural destinations such as the Tennessee River, Paint Rock River, Skyline Wildlife Management Area, and downtowns across the county. We also recommended a series of SRT+ backcountry trails that link users to wilderness areas and caving sites, as well as new blueway put-ins along the Paint Rock River to expand paddling access. To accelerate implementation, the plan outlines Phase One priority segments, a countywide funding and partnership strategy, and immediate action steps focused on project readiness, landowner coordination, federal grant pursuit, and “Phase Zero” placemaking improvements that build momentum while establishing visible early wins. Together, these recommendations form a comprehensive roadmap for establishing Jackson County as a premier outdoor recreation destination and a cornerstone of the larger regional trail network.