The best road cycling routes in Oak Mountain State Park

By Fede from komoot

Updated June 2, 2026

If you've ever tried to plan road cycling in Oak Mountain State Park, you know how quickly the options can feel overwhelming. With so many trails, it's hard to tell which routes are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. That's where we come in: komoot's community has mapped, ridden, and reviewed these routes, so we've got you covered with a curated shortlist of the ones that are truly worth your legs. We're here to save you the guesswork.

Road cycling in Oak Mountain State Park is all about those scenic, rolling hills and the peaceful stretches around its multiple lakes. Alabama's largest state park offers a diverse landscape, from heavily forested areas to open views, making every ride feel like a mini-adventure. You'll find everything from easy loops perfect for a relaxed spin to more challenging moderate routes that will give you a good workout.

If you only do one ride, we'd start with the Lake Trail Trailhead loop from Oak Mountain Lake Dam Number Two, an easy 10.7 miles (17.2 km) that offers fantastic lake views and is a local favorite. For something a bit longer and more varied, the Lake Trail Trailhead – Oak Mountain State Park Office loop from ATM is a moderate 14.4 miles (23.2 km) that connects key park areas with beautiful scenery. With more than 100 road cyclists already exploring here on komoot, you're in good company.

If you only do 3 of these routes

Compare these routes at a glance

Trail	Distance	Elevation	Difficulty
Lake Trail Trailhead loop from Oak Mountain Lake Dam Number Two	17.2 km	200 m	Easy
Lake Trail Trailhead – Oak Mountain State Park Office loop from ATM	23.2 km	300 m	Moderate
Oak Mountain State Park Office – Lake Trail Trailhead loop from Nature Center Parking	17.2 km	310 m	Moderate
Double Oak Lake Trail loop from South Trailhead	87.4 km	720 m	Moderate
Lake Trail Trailhead – Oak Mountain State Park Office loop from Practice field	32.4 km	400 m	Moderate

Trail

Distance

Elevation

Difficulty

Lake Trail Trailhead loop from Oak Mountain Lake Dam Number Two

17.2 km

200 m

Easy

Lake Trail Trailhead – Oak Mountain State Park Office loop from ATM

23.2 km

300 m

Moderate

Oak Mountain State Park Office – Lake Trail Trailhead loop from Nature Center Parking

17.2 km

310 m

Moderate

Double Oak Lake Trail loop from South Trailhead

87.4 km

720 m

Moderate

Lake Trail Trailhead – Oak Mountain State Park Office loop from Practice field

32.4 km

400 m

Moderate

1. Lake Trail Trailhead loop from Oak Mountain Lake Dam Number Two

17.2km

00:48

200m

The Lake Trail Trailhead loop from Oak Mountain Lake Dam Number Two offers a delightful road cycling experience, winding through forested hills and providing picturesque views of Double Oak Lake. This easy route is mostly well-paved, featuring gentle rolling hills that make it accessible for all skill levels. You'll enjoy a serene natural backdrop, perfect for a relaxed ride away from traffic.

Planning your visit to this popular Oak Mountain State Park cycling trail means you'll need to account for the park's entry fee. The trailhead is easily accessible within the park, and while specific parking at Dam Number Two isn't always detailed, you'll find plenty of parking options. Consider visiting during off-peak hours for a quieter ride.

This loop is a local favorite for road cyclists, standing out as a dedicated and pleasant option within a park renowned for its extensive mountain biking trails. It's an excellent choice for beginner road cycling, offering a manageable 10.7 miles (17.2 km) with 664 feet (202 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 47 minutes. It provides a fantastic opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of the area without the intensity of more challenging routes.

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2. Lake Trail Trailhead – Oak Mountain State Park Office loop from ATM

23.2km

01:18

300m

Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

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3. Oak Mountain State Park Office – Lake Trail Trailhead loop from Nature Center Parking

17.2km

01:07

310m

Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

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4. Double Oak Lake Trail loop from South Trailhead

87.4km

04:03

720m

The Double Oak Lake Trail loop from the South Trailhead offers a diverse road cycling experience through Oak Mountain State Park. You'll pedal past scenic views of Double Oak Lake and through varied forested hills, encountering gentle rolling terrain and numerous switchbacks. Keep an eye out for local wildlife and birds as you navigate the route, which blends paved and unpaved sections.

Planning your ride on this popular route means being ready for mixed surfaces; some segments are unpaved and might challenge thin road bike tires. The park is Alabama's largest state park, so be aware of potential entrance fees. Parking is available at the South Trailhead, and it's always a good idea to arrive early, especially on busy days.

This moderate 54.3-mile (87.4 km) loop, with 2359 feet (719 metres) of elevation gain, is estimated to take about 4 hours and 2 minutes. It's known as the most popular no-traffic road cycling route in the park, making it a great option for cyclists seeking a substantial ride away from cars. The presence of unpaved sections means it's best for those with good fitness and a bike that can handle varied terrain.

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5. Lake Trail Trailhead – Oak Mountain State Park Office loop from Practice field

32.4km

01:44

400m

Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

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6. Lake Trail Trailhead – Double Oak Lake Trail loop from Practice field

48.9km

02:32

510m

The Lake Trail Trailhead – Double Oak Lake Trail loop from Practice field offers a fantastic road cycling experience through Oak Mountain State Park. You'll navigate rolling terrain and forested hills, with the highlight being the picturesque views of Double Oak Lake as you circle its shores. This moderate 30.4-mile (48.9 km) route includes 1686 feet (514 metres) of elevation gain and takes about 2 hours and 32 minutes, featuring a mix of paved roads and some challenging unpaved sections.

Planning your ride means heading to Oak Mountain State Park, which typically requires an entrance fee. While the park is popular year-round, consider the mixed surfaces, including roughly 1.1 miles (1.77 km) of unpaved trail, when choosing your bike. Parking is available at the Lake Trail Trailhead, making it a convenient starting point for your adventure.

This loop is part of Alabama's largest state park, a highly-rated destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The route is known for its numerous switchbacks, which add an engaging element for cyclists, and it's highly regarded by the community for its scenic beauty and moderate challenge.

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7. Lake Trail Trailhead loop from Pelham

37.4km

01:53

410m

Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

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8. Roadbike loop from Shoal Creek

64.8km

02:49

570m

This Roadbike loop from Shoal Creek offers a unique blend of urban cycling and natural escape, winding alongside the scenic waterway. You'll experience diverse terrain, from smooth paved sections to crushed gravel and even compacted dirt, especially as you venture past Pease Park. The route takes you under a lush canopy of old oak trees, offering glimpses of wildlife and even a distinctive rocky canyon with impressive overhangs, making for a visually engaging ride.

Planning your ride, you'll find that while the Shoal Creek Trail itself is generally accessible, this 40.3-mile (64.8 km) loop with 1881 feet (573 metres) of elevation gain requires a moderate fitness level. The estimated duration is around 2 hours and 48 minutes. Access points for the broader Shoal Creek Trail are common around Northwest Park or 31st Street, where you can typically find parking, though it's best to arrive early on busy days.

This route is a fantastic way to experience Austin's oldest hike-and-bike trail, which is a crucial link in the city's developing "Big Loop" system. It offers a tranquil setting right in the heart of the city, providing an urban oasis for cyclists. The trail also holds historical significance, following a route that was once Austin's western boundary in 1839, with historical markers along the way.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of terrain can I expect when road cycling in Oak Mountain State Park?

Oak Mountain State Park offers a diverse environment with scenic, rolling hills and well-paved roads. You'll encounter varied terrain, including routes that wind around the park's six fishing lakes, providing engaging rides for different fitness levels.

Are there any easy road cycling routes suitable for beginners or a relaxed ride?

Yes, for an easier ride, consider the Lake Trail Trailhead loop from Oak Mountain Lake Dam Number Two. This 10.7-mile (17.2 km) route is rated as easy and offers pleasant views of the park's lakes and natural landscape.

What are some notable attractions or scenic points I can see while road cycling in the park?

While road cycling, you'll experience the park's natural beauty, including its six fishing lakes. For specific points of interest, consider exploring areas near Peavine Falls or the Treetop Nature Trail, which offer picturesque destinations and educational opportunities.

Are there any fees or permits required for road cycling in Oak Mountain State Park?

As Alabama's largest state park, Oak Mountain State Park typically requires an entrance fee. It's advisable to check the official park website for the most current information regarding daily passes or annual permits for park access, which would cover road cycling.

Where can I park my car when visiting Oak Mountain State Park for road cycling?

The park offers various parking areas. Routes often start from convenient locations such as the Oak Mountain State Park Office or Nature Center Parking, providing accessible points to begin your ride. For example, the Oak Mountain State Park Office – Lake Trail Trailhead loop starts near the Nature Center Parking.

What is the best time of year for road biking in Oak Mountain State Park?

Oak Mountain State Park is enjoyable year-round, but spring and fall generally offer the most comfortable temperatures for road cycling. These seasons provide pleasant weather for tackling the rolling hills and enjoying the natural scenery without extreme heat or cold.

Are there any longer or more challenging road cycling routes for experienced riders?

Yes, for a more challenging experience, consider routes like the Double Oak Lake Trail loop from South Trailhead. This moderate route spans approximately 54.3 miles (87.4 km) and features significant elevation changes, making it suitable for experienced cyclists seeking a longer ride.

Can I find loop routes for road cycling in Oak Mountain State Park?

Absolutely. Many of the road cycling routes in Oak Mountain State Park are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Lake Trail Trailhead loop from Oak Mountain Lake Dam Number Two and the Lake Trail Trailhead – Oak Mountain State Park Office loop from ATM.

What do other road cyclists appreciate most about riding in Oak Mountain State Park?

The road cycling experience in Oak Mountain State Park is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Cyclists often praise the park's scenic, rolling hills, the presence of multiple lakes, and the diverse natural surroundings that make for engaging and beautiful rides.

Are there any road cycling routes that are particularly family-friendly?

For families or those looking for a less strenuous ride, the easier routes around the lakes are a great option. The Lake Trail Trailhead loop from Oak Mountain Lake Dam Number Two is an easy route that provides scenic views without excessive difficulty, making it suitable for a family outing.

How long are the typical road cycling routes in Oak Mountain State Park?

The road cycling routes in Oak Mountain State Park vary in length. You can find shorter loops, such as the 10.7-mile (17.2 km) Lake Trail Trailhead loop, up to longer, more extensive rides like the 54.3-mile (87.4 km) Double Oak Lake Trail loop, catering to different preferences and fitness levels.

What makes Oak Mountain State Park a unique destination for road cycling?

Oak Mountain State Park stands out as Alabama's largest state park, offering 11,861 acres of diverse natural beauty. Its combination of scenic, rolling hills, well-maintained roads, and numerous lakes creates a unique and engaging environment for road cyclists, allowing them to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying a ride.

The best road cycling routes in Oak Mountain State Park

If you only do 3 of these routes

Compare these routes at a glance

1.

Lake Trail Trailhead loop from Oak Mountain Lake Dam Number Two

2.

Lake Trail Trailhead – Oak Mountain State Park Office loop from ATM

3.

Oak Mountain State Park Office – Lake Trail Trailhead loop from Nature Center Parking

4.

Double Oak Lake Trail loop from South Trailhead

5.

Lake Trail Trailhead – Oak Mountain State Park Office loop from Practice field

6.

Lake Trail Trailhead – Double Oak Lake Trail loop from Practice field

7.

Lake Trail Trailhead loop from Pelham

8.

Roadbike loop from Shoal Creek

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Lake Trail Trailhead – Double Oak Lake Trail loop from Practice field	48.9 km	510 m	Moderate
Lake Trail Trailhead loop from Pelham	37.4 km	410 m	Moderate
Roadbike loop from Shoal Creek	64.8 km	570 m	Moderate