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 Reporter |
Summary: The Red Trail is the longest trail in the park and forms a loop. The Park says the trail is 17 miles long but when I hiked it with my GPS I only measured it at 13.71 miles, possibly due to tree cover interfering with reception. The trail starts at the North Trailhead and follows a Jeep Road to one of the highest points in the park. The climb is strenuous but rewarding with the views from the top of the mountain. The remainder of the trail is single track mountain bike trail that is heavily used by bikers and hikers. Be aware of the mountain bikes as they often travel at a high rate of speed. The trail offers all types of variety.... from scenic overlooks to rocky hills to peaceful flat terrain through the forest. You will cross a total of 24 bridges during your hike. The trail is well maintained by BUMP (Birmingham Urban Mountain Pedalers) and the staff of Oak Mtn State Park. Plan to spend an entire day on the hike and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Trailhead: To reach the North Trailhead in Oak Mtn State Park travel I-65 to Cahaba Valley Road (Exit 246). Follow the signs to Oak Mtn State Park. You will travel State Park Road to the entrance of Oak Mtn State Park. Once entering Oak Mtn State Park, follow John Findley Drive approximately 2-3 miles until you see the North Trailhead on your right. A parking area is provided directly across the entrance to the North Trailhead. There is $2 fee for adults and a $1 fee for children to enter Oak Mountain State Park. (Lat:33.35742 Lon:-86.70497) Trail Guides for Oak Mountain Red Trail Loop: Best Seasons: Year-Round User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Bikes, Ranger Contact: Alabama State Park 205-620-2520 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Jeff Johns, who has posted 15 other hikes on this site. To visit this reporters web site, click here. Trail Reviews Submit your own review 
Reviewed by Penny on 4/18/2007 I hike at Oak Mt on a regular basis. The red trail is a trail for anyone to use. I do hike this trail primarily during the week so that the many bikes that are there on weekends can have it without worry of coming up on a hiker. There are times in which you are on this trail to get to other hiking trails during the weekends. I have seen a good harmony between hikers and bikers on this trail. I am very respectful to the bikers since this is their only trail. Both have to be careful and be alert for the other. The red trail consist of many different characteristics. It is a very interesting trail full of great scenery. It is one of my favorites to hike but with caution!
Reviewed by Ann on 1/23/2006 Oak Mountain State Park has many trails. The Red Trail is one of them, but it is not an exclusive bike trail though cyclists use it as one part of their loop. Infact, that is the ageement the park made with cyclists, that all trails are multipurpose and hikers can use every trail in the park. A little call out to warn hikers who cannot hear a bike approaching from the rear is greatly appreciated. Best time to visit is on weekdays. Please keep your dog leashed. People, cyclists and wild animals will appreciate your consideration.
Reviewed by Jeff on 12/31/2004 The red trail is open to ANYONE that wishes to use it. It is, however, the only trail in the park with the exception of the family bike trail, that visitors can use for riding their bikes. The Red Trail is frequently used by hikers. 
Reviewed by JW on 12/31/2004 I love all the Oak Mountain Trails... However, I believe this one is supposed to be for mountain bikers only... This is why the bikes are going at high speed... It is their trail. 
Reviewed by Chris on 1/30/2004 I live in Hoover and Oak Mtn. is a very short drive from my house...This trail is in great condition despite being very heavily ridden...If you need something for your ride, the friendly folks at Cahaba Cycles will help you...they are about a 1 min drive from the entrance 2 the park and there CC is there is also plenty of gas and food....this is really my fave trail....great xc riding...if your looking for a fast narrow xc ride...this is the trail for you... if your looking to get air...try somewhere else or perhaps the BMX course near the trail. Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: Alabama Hiking, Alabama Trails, Alabama Hikes, Shelby County Hiking, Shelby County Trails, Shelby County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||