Chris and Lauren Williamson, happy residents of Helena for three years, share what they love about their city.

The great outdoors

Northern Pines trail at Cahaba River Park

There are many miles of great trails at Cahaba River Park, and the Northern Pines trail is our top pick. As its name suggests, most of the trail runs along a pine ridge and then switchbacks down to the river near the end. Out-and-back is close to four miles. Without the sound of leaves rustling in the trees and crunching under your feet, the pine ridge makes for an almost eerily quiet walk. We love it!

Cool for the summer

Wading the Buck Creek shoals in the summertime

The trail that parallels Buck Creek from the back of Helena Amphitheater Park to the confluence of the creek and the Cahaba River is a hidden gem. Along the trail there are several shoals that make perfect places to cool off on summer days with our dogs; we just set up our camping chairs right in the water and relax!

Making memories

Old Town festivities and events

There are so many entertaining events that take place in and around Old Town throughout the year, and we attend all that we can: Helena Market Days, Own Town Live, the Buck Creek Festival and Christmas in Helena among others. These events are a part of so many of the happy memories our family has made since moving to Helena three years ago.

Holidays in Hillsboro

A vibrant neighborhood community

Living in the Appleford neighborhood for three years has given new meaning to the word “festive”! Our neighborhood family raises the bar when it comes to celebrating and decorating for the holidays. We especially love hosting what seems to be the entire town for trick-or-treating. The endless parade of adorable kiddos (and parents) in costume is quite entertaining!

Compassionate childcare

Helena Methodist Church and Preschool

If anyone is looking for a church home or a preschool/play school program for their little ones, we highly encourage them to give Helena Methodist Church a visit. We joined the church shortly after moving to Helena and it has blessed our family in many ways. Our 13-month-old daughter attends the play school program and the staff and teachers are top-notch–experienced, caring, and communicative. Our little girl always has the biggest smile on her face when she gets to class each morning!