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Lake Trail Loop

Pelham, Alabama

3.0/5
based on 1 reviews

Details

Distance

3.02 miles

Elevation Gain

0 ft

Route Type

Loop

Description

Added by John Sides

Oak Mountain State Park has over 50 miles of trails, that offer some of the best trail running, hiking and mountain biking options in Alabama. The Lake Trail is one of the more scenic trails in the park, as it follows the edges of Double Oak Lake. Its gentler grade makes for a fun and fast trail run.

The 2.3 mile Lake Trail runs more than two-thirds of the way around Double Oak Lake, from the South Trailhead to the marina and can easily be made into a 3 mile loop by connecting onto the paved road, Terrace Drive. In comparison to many other hiking trails throughout the park, the Lake Trail generally keeps a gentler grade, though there are some rolling hills with slight elevation gain to keep things interesting. The trail offers scenic views of Double Oak Lake in several spots, including the open stretch of trail as you cross over a dam and several sections that parallel the water's edge. Overall the terrain is hard packed, but rocks and roots will keep you focused on your footing in some places. There are also a few small creek crossings that are often dry, but may be wet or muddy after it rains. Each year the XTERRA race series features this trail as part of their triathlon events, as well as their 5k/10k/20k trail races.

Note that this trail doubles as a mountain biking trail, so stay alert on your run and yield to oncoming mountain bikers. Run at non peak times like weekday afternoons or early morning on weekends for a better chance to have the trail to yourself.

Oak Mountain State Park has an entrance fee of ~$5/adult.   

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Features

Fitness
Running
Bathrooms
Dog Friendly
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Forest
Lake
Picnic Area
Scenic

Lake Trail Loop Reviews

Oak Mountain State Park is a little piece of heaven, (almost 10,000 acres), surrounded by the suburbs of Birmingham. Once you have paid the five-dollar entry fee and entered the park, you will no longer realize the city is surrounding you. The Double Oak Lake area is more of a resort area. On the one side are the large parking lots, picnicking areas, and the marina. The 2.3-mile Lake Trail is on the other side. It is a nice level forest trail for bikers, joggers, and hikers. The views across the lake reminds you this is more of a resort area. I have hiked it often when time was running short. The fresh air and forest atmosphere were often the quick fix I needed. It is a great starter for young families. It often leads people into the other 9000 acres crisscrossed by over 50 miles of moderate to difficult trails leading to waterfalls, rock gardens, and high cliffs with amazing vistas.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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