6 mountain biking trails to check out in Birmingham, including Oak Mountain State Park

Woman biking in a green forest
Perfect weather + beautiful Birmingham trails = your weekend plans. Photo via Birmingham Urban Mountain Pedalers

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

Man riding his bike at Red Mountain Park
Weekend plans? Check. Photo via 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

Photo of scenic trail in the woods with fallen leaves covering the ground
Beginners and experienced mountain bikers alike will love the All GUTS No Glory route. Photo via 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

View of trees with leaves changing colors
Is there anything more beautiful than fall in Birmingham? Photo via 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

View of mountain biking trail at Black Creek Mountain Bike Park
I think I have my weekend plans ready. Photo via 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

Picture of bridge over a lake with trees changing colors in the background
The reflection of changing leaves over the water would make waking up for an early morning mountain bike ride worth it… and that’s coming from a night owl. Photo via 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

Water falling over rocks with vibrant trees in the background
Perfect fall views? Sign me up. Photo via 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.

Two people biking in front of a lake
Everything is better with friends—including biking. Photo via Birmingham Urban Mountain Pedalers

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!

Cecilia Wood
Cecilia Wood
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