Tuscaloosa Plans Free, 3-Mile Paddle Race and More in July

The city of Tuscaloosa's water department is going all in on National Lakes Appreciation Month this July with a boatload of events and activities at Lake Tuscaloosa, Lake Nicol and Harris Lake.

"Our lakes are some of Tuscaloosa's greatest treasures, and National Lakes Appreciation Month is an opportunity for our community to experience everything they have to offer," said Mark Thomas, lakes division manager. "Whether you're fishing, paddling, hiking or simply spending time with family on the water, we hope these events encourage people to enjoy our lakes and appreciate the important role they play in our daily lives."

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Events planned throughout the month include:

Free Parking at Sharpes and Rock Quarry Landing — July 3-5: Free boat launch access will be available at Sharpes Landing (13750 Sharpes Lake Road) and Rock Quarry Landing (2230 New Watermelon Road) over the Fourth of July holiday weekend. Day passes to use the municipal boat ramps usually cost $5, with annual passes available for $40.

Lake Nicol Paddle Fest — July 18: This brand new, free community paddling event is being held in partnership with Tuscaloosa Paddleboards and Mountain High Outfitters. Participation is open to paddleboarders and kayakers of all skill levels. Participants can choose between a timed 3-mile race at 8 a.m., a carefree 3-mile Fun Float at 9:30 a.m., or a relaxed 1-mile paddle leaving at 9:45. Complimentary paddleboard rentals will be available in limited quantities. Spectators can watch from the Outer Cliff Trail. Registration is available online here.

Tuscaloosa Lakes Bingo Challenge — Throughout July: Participants can download a bingo card and complete lake-themed activities throughout the month. From hiking the outer cliff trail at Lake Nicol to watching sunrise at Sharpes Landing, the tasks on the card are sure to instill or deepen a love for the water bodies in those who participate. Completed cards can be turned in at the city's Lakes Division at 3650 Lake Nicol Road in exchange for a Tuscaloosa Water rubber duck. The office is open Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Lakes Photo Contest — Ends July 31 at noon: All month long, residents can also enter a photography contest by posting an original photo of Lake Tuscaloosa, Lake Nicol or Harris Lake to Facebook or Instagram using the hashtag #TuscaloosaLakes. The winning photo will be featured on the City of Tuscaloosa's social media channels, and the winner will receive a gift card to Southern Ale House Dockside.

For more information, call Tuscaloosa 311 or follow the City of Tuscaloosa on social media for updates throughout the month.

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