Oak Mountain IMBA Epic

Description for Oak Mountain IMBA Epic

Alabama's largest state park, Oak Mountain provides 9,940 acres of pine-studded ridges and lush green hardwood valleys. This mountainous trail winds around a large lake, offering stunning vistas.
 
The suggested route begins with a challenging, technical climb that gains 600 feet in a little less than 3 miles to reach one of several ridges in the park. The payoff is twofold: magnificent views and a demanding descent that challenges riders to navigate a series of rocky, often-slippery turns. Near the bottom, rock gardens and waterbars demand concentration and good braking technique.
 
Back in the lush valley, rolling terrain provides twists and turns as the trails follow the contours of the peaks and valleys. A fast drop follows each short, punchy climb. If you reach the end and haven’t had enough fun, turn around and go back the other way. In either direction, the challenges and rewards of the Oak Mountain Epic flow in constant succession.
 
The Birmingham Urban Pedalers (BUMP) first undertook the care and feeding of this ride two decades ago. Onsite amenities include trailhead kiosks with detailed trail maps, bathrooms, camping areas and bike washes. Non-riders can hike, canoe, ride horses and fish at the lake. If you need a spare tube or bike repair, stop by Cahaba Cycles, just outside the park gates.
 
Location: Oak Mountain State Park, Alabama
 
Trailhead lat/long: 33.322344, -86.762166
 
Length of route: 21 miles (planned expansion to 30 miles)
 
Ride time: Between 2.5 and 3.5 hours for most riders
 
IMBA-affiliated clubs: Birmingham Urban Mountain Pedalers (BUMP)

There is approximately 700 of elevation change. If you park at the North trail head to begin your ride there is one portable toilet at this location, no changing rooms or showers, you can ride in the CW direction which will begin with an immediate 2 mile long 700 climb up a rocky fire lane. If you choose to ride CCW, you can obviously look forward to a two mile 700 downhill ride at the end. Riding CCW is a slightly more strenuous ride overall. The trail is a single loop located in Oak Mountain State Park, AL's largest state park, approximately 10,000 acres. Camping, golfing, fishing, canoeing, and a BMX park are also available here.

Directions to Oak Mountain IMBA Epic Trailhead