When you think of prime mountain biking destinations, Alabama might not immediately come to mind. The state’s rolling hills and Southern charm usually conjure thoughts of country music and college football, not technical descents and rugged trails. That’s what I thought, too—until my co-worker Brett proved me wrong. He convinced me that Alabama had a lot to offer mountain bikers, and I’ll admit, I was skeptical at first. However, after an epic five-day biking adventure, I can say without hesitation that Alabama has some of the best-kept secrets in mountain biking.
With diverse terrain ranging from flowy trails to technical rock gardens, Alabama offers something for every rider. Whether you’re a beginner looking for an easy day in the saddle or an advanced rider craving a tough challenge, this southern state delivers. So, if you’re planning your next mountain biking trip, here’s a five-day itinerary in Alabama that perfectly balances scenic views, technical challenges, and adrenaline-pumping rides.
Day 1: Chewacla State Park (Auburn)
Difficulty: Beginner to Intermediate
Distance: 7–15 miles
Highlights: Scenic views, flowing singletrack, varied terrain
We kicked off our trip at Chewacla State Park near Auburn, Alabama. Known for its rolling hills, flowing streams, and forested landscape, Chewacla is the perfect place to start your Alabama mountain biking adventure. The trails here range from easy to moderate, making it ideal for getting your legs moving and enjoying the beauty of Alabama’s wilderness.
Trail Features: The park offers a variety of trails, including the Rock Garden Trail, which is a fun challenge with rock gardens and tight switchbacks.
What to Expect: You’ll ride through lush forests, past lakes, and over waterfalls, all while easing into the technical aspects of mountain biking.
Post-Ride: After a day of riding, cool off at the lake or relax at one of the park’s campgrounds. It’s a peaceful spot to reflect on the day’s adventure.
Day 2: Oak Mountain State Park (Pelham)
Difficulty: Intermediate to Advanced
Distance: 17 miles (or more, with trail connections)
Highlights: Technical features, scenic views, Alabama Outdoor Adventure Center
Oak Mountain State Park is one of Alabama’s most famous mountain biking destinations, and it did not disappoint. With over 50 miles of trails, it offers a range of terrain for riders of all skill levels, from fast-moving sections to technical, rock-strewn routes. This park was the perfect place to push myself a bit further on day two of the trip.
Trail Features: The Red Trail is great for intermediate riders, while the Blue and Yellow Trails offer more technical challenges, including rock gardens and roots.
What to Expect: Steep climbs, fast descents, and stunning views of the park’s lake and surrounding landscapes.
Post-Ride: After the ride, we explored the Alabama Outdoor Adventure Center. If you’re up for it, paddleboarding on the lake or grabbing a bite at the park café are excellent ways to wind down.
Day 3: Lake Lurleen State Park (Tuscaloosa)
Difficulty: Beginner to Intermediate
Distance: 12–15 miles
Highlights: Lush trails, peaceful atmosphere, lakeside views
By day three, I was ready for a slightly easier day, and Lake Lurleen State Park was just what I needed. The park offers a range of easy to moderate trails, with beautiful views of the lake and surrounding forests. It was the perfect place to take a break from technical rides and enjoy a flowy, scenic ride instead.
Trail Features: Trails like the Lake Loop Trail offer smooth, gentle terrain with some mild elevation changes.
What to Expect: A relaxed ride with beautiful lakeside scenery and lush forests. It’s a great chance to enjoy the ride without too much technical difficulty.
Post-Ride: Afterward, take time to enjoy the lake, have a picnic, or even take a dip if the weather’s right.
Day 4: Bankhead National Forest (Double Springs)
Difficulty: Advanced
Distance: 10–15 miles
Highlights: Rugged wilderness, technical rock gardens, challenging climbs
For day four, we headed to Bankhead National Forest, a true hidden gem. This remote wilderness area offers some of Alabama’s most challenging trails, perfect for advanced riders seeking rugged terrain and technical riding.
Trail Features: The Owl Creek Trail System is known for tough climbs, steep descents, and technical features like rock gardens. The trails are tough but offer the kind of rugged experience you can’t find in more developed parks.
What to Expect: Bankhead offers the ultimate backcountry experience—expect difficult climbs, rock gardens, and narrow, technical trails. This is where Alabama truly shows off its wild side.
Post-Ride: After the tough ride, take a moment to enjoy the tranquility of Bankhead Forest. You can also explore nearby hiking trails or grab a meal at a local restaurant.
Day 5: Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park (McCalla)
Difficulty: Beginner to Intermediate
Distance: 10–15 miles
Highlights: Historical sites, flowy singletrack, scenic countryside
On the final day, we headed to Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park. This park offers a combination of historical exploration and great riding, making it the perfect place to wrap up the trip. The park’s Mountain Bike Trail System features flowy singletrack with some mild elevation changes.
Trail Features: The trails are beginner-friendly to intermediate, with smooth, flowing sections and a few rocky patches to keep things interesting.
What to Expect: A scenic ride through the park’s historical sites, like the old ironworks furnaces, along with some beautiful wooded areas.
Post-Ride: Tannehill also offers picnic areas, perfect for reflecting on the week and enjoying a celebratory meal with your fellow riders.
Tips for Your Alabama Mountain Biking Adventure
- Shuttle Services: Some parks, like Oak Mountain State Park and Bankhead National Forest, offer shuttle services to help you avoid the climb back up after completing a loop.
- Bike Gear: For technical trails, bring a full suspension bike, but hardtail bikes are fine for easier routes.
- Weather: Spring and fall offer the best riding conditions, with cooler temperatures and clear skies.
- Ride Early: To avoid the heat, start your rides early in the day.
- Food: Alabama offers amazing Southern cuisine. After a ride, enjoy local BBQ or farm-to-table dining to fuel up.
Final Thoughts
After spending five days riding in Alabama, I can confidently say that Brett was right: the state is a mountain biking haven that deserves more attention. From the technical climbs of Oak Mountain to the scenic, easy-going rides at Lake Lurleen, Alabama’s trails offer something for every rider. Whether you’re new to mountain biking or a seasoned pro, Alabama’s diverse landscape and hidden gems make it a fantastic destination for your next biking adventure.