Tva Rockpile: Boat Ramp Open For Business

The TVA Rockpile boat ramp is located on the Tennessee River in Muscle Shoals, Alabama. The boat ramp is part of the TVA Rockpile Trail, a 2.7-mile trail that offers incredible views of the Tennessee River, Wilson Dam, and O'Neal Bridge. The trail also features a waterfall, historical sites, and a variety of wildlife. In February 2023, the boat ramp and pier were closed due to severe flooding but have since been reopened. The rest of the day-use area, including the restroom facilities and playground, remained closed for repairs.

The Rockpile boat ramp was closed for repairs after a flood in February 2023

The Rockpile boat ramp in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, is now open following repairs after a severe flood in February 2023. The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) closed the Rockpile Recreation Area after the flood left much of it underwater, causing extensive damage. The boat ramp and pier were closed for repairs, along with the restroom facility, the Tennessee River-themed playground, roads in the park, and the perimeter fence. The flood also impacted the waterfall near the Wilson Dam powerhouse at the other end of the park, creating a new outfall point.

The boat ramp at Rockpile has been a site for search and rescue operations in the past. In January 2023, emergency personnel were dispatched from the Rockpile boat ramp to search for a missing 63-year-old fisherman following a boat crash on the Tennessee River.

The Rockpile Recreation Area is a popular spot for fishermen and boaters, as it provides access to the Tennessee River and offers a boat launch and a paved trail leading to a waterfall. The area also features a unique playground with a Tennessee River theme and other recreational amenities.

The repairs to the Rockpile boat ramp and surrounding facilities were expected to cost around $200,000. The pier at the boat launch underwent a complete overhaul, including the installation of a new aluminum surface. The restroom facility, however, required additional time for repairs due to the necessary environmental, cultural, and archaeological assessments, as Wilson Dam is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

During the closure, the boat ramp remained accessible, but the rest of the day-use area was closed to the public for their safety. The Tennessee Valley Authority anticipated that the entire Rockpile Recreation Area would remain closed for approximately three more months while they worked diligently to restore the damaged infrastructure and amenities.

The Rockpile Recreation Area is closed but the boat ramp is open

The Rockpile Recreation Area is a popular spot for boaters, hikers, and anglers on the Tennessee River. However, as of April 2023, the recreation area is closed due to flood damage, except for the boat ramp, which is currently open.

The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) closed the Rockpile Recreation Area after a severe flood in February 2023 left much of it underwater and caused significant damage. The floodwaters damaged the restroom facility, the Tennessee River-themed playground, roads in the park, and the perimeter fence. Repairs are estimated to cost about $200,000, and the area beyond the boat launch parking lot is expected to remain closed for at least three more months.

Despite the closure of the recreation area, the boat ramp is open for use. Fishermen and boaters can access the Tennessee River via the boat ramp, which has been overhauled with a new aluminum surface. The pier at the boat launch has also been completely refurbished. Boaters should be aware that the ramp may temporarily close when major construction is taking place in the park.

The Rockpile Trail, a 2.7-mile out-and-back trail, is also accessible from the Rockpile Recreation Area. This trail offers incredible views of the Tennessee River, Wilson Dam, and O'Neal Bridge. However, it is important to note that the trailhead at the Wilson Dam overlook is currently closed due to safety reasons.

For those seeking to enjoy the Tennessee River and the Rockpile Recreation Area, it is important to stay informed about the status of the repairs and closures. While the boat ramp is currently open, the rest of the recreation area remains closed, and boaters should be prepared for potential temporary closures during construction.

The Rockpile Trail is a 2.7-mile trail with incredible views of the Tennessee River

The Rockpile Trail is a 2.7-mile trail that takes hikers on an incredible journey between Wilson Dam and O'Neal Bridge, offering breathtaking views of the Tennessee River on Wilson Lake. The trail is rated as "medium" due to its steep hills, steps, and challenging terrain. It is important to watch your footing and be mindful of potential snakes in tall grass along the trail.

The trail begins at the Rockpile Recreation Area, with two main trailheads. The first is located at the Rockpile Recreation Area itself, and the western trailhead is where other TVA Nature Trails are found. To access the Rockpile Recreation Area, cross Wilson Dam and continue on Reservation Road until you see a sign pointing to the area. For the western trailheads, simply continue west on Reservation Road.

As you hike along the Rockpile Trail, you'll be treated to stunning views of the Tennessee River, with a beautiful waterfall greeting you at the Wilson Dam trailhead. Along the way, you'll encounter rocks, creeks, and diverse wildlife. The trail also offers incredible views of Wilson Dam, Patton Island Bridge, O'Neal Bridge, The Renaissance Tower, and even a glimpse of downtown Florence, Alabama.

At the Patton Island Bridge, hikers can walk underneath the south side of the bridge to find a walkway that leads back into the woods and continues along the trail. Eventually, you'll reach the "skimmer wall," a concrete wall in the water with a railing on top, providing another great photo opportunity of the river, the bridge, and the Renaissance Tower. Near the end of the trail, an old pavilion offers a resting spot and a fantastic view. Restrooms are also available here.

The Rockpile Trail is part of the TVA Reservation, which also offers loop trails on the west side for those who want to extend their hike. The South Port Trail, in particular, is a short trail that delves into the area's history. It was once the largest cotton industry town on this side of the Mississippi River until it was shelled by Union gunboats during the Civil War. Remnants of earthen forts built by the Confederate Army can still be seen along this trail.

The TVA Rockpile Trail is rated as a medium hike due to steep hills and steps

The TVA Rockpile Trail is a 2.7-mile out-and-back trail that takes hikers on a journey between Wilson Dam and O'Neal Bridge, offering breathtaking views of the Tennessee River on Wilson Lake. The trail is rated as a medium hike due to the presence of steep hills and steps, which can be challenging for some hikers.

The terrain of the TVA Rockpile Trail can be demanding, with some areas featuring incredibly steep hills and steps that require careful footing. The trail can be physically tiring, and hikers should be cautious of potential snake encounters in tall grass along the path. While snakes are not commonly seen, it is important to remain vigilant.

The trail offers a diverse experience, including breathtaking views, historical landmarks, and a chance to explore nature. Along the way, hikers will come across the Patton Island Bridge (also known as the Singing River Bridge), a concrete skimmer wall, and an old pavilion with restrooms and a stunning view. The trail also passes through open fields and areas with high grass, where wildlife sightings are possible.

The TVA Rockpile Trail is generally well-maintained, but some sections may have overgrown vegetation or tall grass. It is important for hikers to wear appropriate footwear and be mindful of their surroundings. The trail is open year-round and welcomes dogs, offering a great opportunity for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts to explore the beauty of the Tennessee River.

The Rockpile Trail has a waterfall, wildlife, and historical markers

The TVA Rockpile Trail is a 2.7-mile trail that takes hikers on a journey between Wilson Dam and O'Neal Bridge, offering breathtaking views of the Tennessee River on Wilson Lake. This trail, rated as moderately difficult, features steep hills, steps, and tall grass, making it a challenging yet rewarding hike.

One of the highlights of the Rockpile Trail is the waterfall located at the Wilson Dam trailhead. The waterfall is easily accessible, with a paved trail leading the way, and is a popular spot for photography. The trail also includes historical markers, particularly on the South Port Trail, which was once the largest cotton industry town on the Mississippi River's side. During the Civil War, Union gunboats shelled the town, leaving only remnants of earthen forts built by the Confederate Army in 1864. These historical markers provide insights into the area's rich history.

In addition to the waterfall and historical markers, the Rockpile Trail offers a diverse range of wildlife sightings. Along the way, hikers can expect to see rocks, creeks, and an array of wildlife, including bald eagles that roost on a bluff overlooking the river. The trail also passes by Patton Island Bridge (also known as the Singing River Bridge), the Renaissance Tower, and offers views of downtown Florence, Alabama.

The Rockpile Trail is well-maintained, with some areas of open fields and high grass along the sides. The South Port Trail, part of the TVA trail system, has been recently improved for better visibility and accessibility. The trailheads offer parking, bathroom facilities, maps, and picnic areas for hikers' convenience. Overall, the Rockpile Trail provides a rewarding hiking experience with a combination of natural beauty, historical insights, and opportunities for wildlife viewing.

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