6 mountain biking trails to check out in Birmingham, including Oak Mountain State Park
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Temperatures in the 60s, nothing on our to-do lists until Monday morning, and plans that involve social distancing—sounds like the perfect time to go mountain biking. If you’re looking for a great bike ride, keep reading for awesome mountain biking trails in Birmingham. Plus, check out different groups for fellow mountain bike lovers!
1. Red Mountain Park
Some of my favorite memories as a kid come from exploring Red Mountain Park. With over 15 miles of trails and surrounded by breathtaking greenery, it’s the perfect option if you’re looking for a fun mountain biking trail.
Plus, if you want a break for water (or to catch your breath—no shame), Red Mountain Park also has treehouses and overlooks to enjoy.
2. Gardendale Urban Trail System
Gardendale Urban Trail System (also known as GUTS) is full of loops, making it a fun, fast-paced option in a small area. Try the All GUTS No Glory route for a difficult but exciting ride.
- Location: 2101 Fieldstown Rd, Mt Olive, AL 35117
- Website
3. Oak Mountain State Park
Oak Mountain State Park features some of the most gorgeous views in Birmingham and over 50 miles of mountain biking and hiking trails.
The Trails at Oak Mountain State Park have every trail condition imaginable and options for every skill level, so whether you’ve been biking for years or this is your first time, you’ll enjoy yourself.
4. Black Creek Mountain Bike Park
Located near Stadium Trace Parkway, Black Creek Mountain Bike Park opened in June 2019 and has 5 miles of trails within the natural terrain. The park features three trails, one for beginners and two with an intermediate level of difficulty.
If you’re looking for a fun way to spend your weekend, you’ll love a ride around Black Creek Mountain Bike Park.
- Location: 5571 Stadium Trace Parkway, Hoover, AL, 35244
- Website
5. Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park
A sense of history and a scenic mountain biking trail all at once? That’s Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park in McCalla, Alabama! Many of the hiking and biking trails follow the original routes of ore miners and furnace workers.
6. Turkey Creek Nature Preserve
Located in Pinson, Alabama, Turkey Creek Nature Preserve is an awesome option for mountain bike lovers and hiking fans alike. Take advantage of the gorgeous trails, and check out their educational programs for children.
Join a mountain biking group for even more fun.
New to town or looking for a group of fellow mountain bikers? Birmingham is full of passionate bikers, so you can join a group to stay updated on current news or participate in group rides. Keep reading for 3 Birmingham mountain biking groups you should check out.
1. Alabama Mountain Bikers – Northeast Alabama Bikers Association
The Alabama Mountain Bikers Facebook group is full of mountain biking enthusiasts who help maintain riding trails. Check them out for group rides and ways you can participate in the awesome mountain biking community.
2. Birmingham Urban Mountain Pedalers (BUMP)
The mission of BUMP is to build, maintain, preserve, and ride mountain bike trails throughout Birmingham, and they use membership fees to build and preserve well loved trails—Oak Mountain State Park, Tannehill State Park, and Trussville Sports Complex.
3. Cahaba Cycles
Whether you’re looking for new bike gear or you want to keep up with mountain biking events in Birmingham, Cahaba Cycles will be your go-to.
What’s your favorite mountain biking trail in Birmingham? Let us know by tagging @bhamnow!
