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OUTDOORS

Chandler Mountain, and one of the Southeast s best boulder fields. There s a warm-up field with relatively easy routes to the top as well as more challenging climbs. Instructions on the rocks tell climbers how to start their ascents. A national bouldering competition held each fall draws hundreds of climbers from around the U.S. FOR MORE INFORMATION: 256-570-0076 or hp40.com. GETTING THERE: From I-59 North, take the Ashville exit. Go north on U.S. 231 for about four miles. Watch for signs. For RVs and campers, the easy way is to take I-59 to exit 174. Go north on Steele Station Rd. At U.S. 11, take a left. You ll soon see a sign at St. Clair 42. Take a right and go to the top of Chandler Mountain. After this road turns left, follow it for three miles to the entrance; look for signs.

VULCAN TRAIL At slightly more than a mile in length, the

Vulcan Trail is a gem carved from the rough stone of what was once part of the old L&N Birmingham Mineral Railroad.

Located off Richard Arrington, Jr. Boulevard, at the base of Vulcan Park and Museum, the trail offers a quiet stroll along a shaded path and fantastic views of the city skyline below.

In 2003, a volunteer group of citizens formed Friends of Vulcan Trail to work to make the experience of visiting the trail a highlight for all who walk it. FOR MORE INFORMATION: Call 205-254-2699 or visit informationbirmingham.com/parks- recreation.aspx

Canoeing and Kayaking CAHABA RIVER Alabama s longest river is a great place to canoe or kayak. Just remember along the way that you re sharing space with several rare and protected fish and the imperiled Cahaba Lily

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