The Double Oak Loop at Oak Mountain State Park is a challenging 6.5-mile circuit in Alabama's largest state park, located in Pelham approximately 20 miles south of Birmingham. The loop connects the Double Oak Mountain and Little Double Oak Mountain ridges, providing the most sustained elevation gain of any trail in the Birmingham metropolitan area at approximately 1,200 feet over the full loop.
Access is via Interstate 65 Exit 246 southbound from Birmingham, then US-31 North a short distance to the park entrance on Terrace Drive in Pelham. A vehicle entry fee of $5 is charged at the gate. The park office near the entrance distributes trail maps with numbered junction markers; the maps are essential for navigating the trail network. Restrooms and water are available at the main trailhead complex. No advance permit is required.
The trail surface is rocky throughout, with much of the loop traversing quartzite ridge crests and boulder fields characteristic of the southern Appalachian foothills. Careful foot placement is required throughout, particularly on steep descent sections. Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support are strongly recommended; light trail runners are insufficient on the boulder fields. Shade is variable — dense forest covers the lower slopes, transitioning to open ridgeline sections with minimal canopy and significant radiant heat from the quartzite rock in summer.
The primary ascent to Double Oak Mountain's ridge begins near the park's lower trailhead and climbs steeply for roughly 1.5 miles to the ridge crest at approximately 1,300 feet elevation. The loop then follows the open quartzite ridge with westward views toward the Birmingham metropolitan area before descending via the Little Double Oak Mountain connector trail. A restored fire tower at the summit of Double Oak Mountain provides additional elevation and views when staffed during park events.
No water sources exist on the trail; fill bottles at the trailhead facilities before departure. Oak Mountain State Park also hosts the Alabama Wildlife Center (a wildlife rehabilitation facility open to visitors), a 55-acre lake with a swimming beach, and an extensive mountain bike trail network — making the park a full-day destination for families.
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Pelham (Birmingham metro)
- Best season
- October-April; summer afternoons extremely hot
What to bring
- Hiking boots (rocky trail)
- Water
- Map (pick up at park entrance)
Location
200 Terrace Dr, Pelham, AL 35124
33.3360, -86.7660 View on map
Highlights
- Highest sustained ridge hike in the Birmingham metro area with 1,200 feet of elevation gain
- Quartzite boulder fields and open ridge-crest views westward toward the Birmingham skyline
- Restored fire tower on Double Oak Mountain summit — the park's highest viewpoint
- Rocky quartzite ridgeline ecosystem typical of the southern Appalachian foothills of Alabama
- Access to Alabama's largest state park including lake swimming, mountain biking, and a wildlife center
Tips for visiting
- Carry 2+ liters of water — no sources exist on the loop and the exposed quartzite ridge is extremely hot in summer
- Hiking boots are essential; quartzite boulder fields are hard on trail runners and light footwear
- Start before 9am in summer to complete the exposed ridge section before peak heat of the day
- Pick up a numbered junction map at the park entrance — junctions are numbered on the map but signs can be small on-trail
- A four-mile one-way ridge traverse with a car shuttle is an alternative to the full 6.5-mile loop
When to visit
October through April is the preferred season, when cooler temperatures make the 1,200-foot climb manageable and summer humidity is absent. October is peak season for fall foliage views from the exposed quartzite ridge crests; spring brings wildflowers to the lower forested sections of the loop.
Accessibility
The Double Oak Loop is not wheelchair accessible. Rocky quartzite surfaces, steep gradients of up to 1,200 feet total gain, and uneven boulder fields make the trail unsuitable for wheelchairs or strollers. The park's lake area, main picnic grounds, and paved paths near the entrance are accessible for visitors with mobility limitations.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
How difficult is the Double Oak Loop compared to other Alabama trails?
It is one of the more challenging day hikes in the Birmingham area, with 1,200 feet of gain, rocky quartzite surfaces, and 6.5 miles of distance. It is best suited for hikers comfortable with sustained climbs and uneven terrain.
Is the fire tower at the summit open to visitors?
The fire tower on Double Oak Mountain is periodically accessible during park events and staffed periods. Availability varies by season; check with the park office before visiting if climbing the tower is a priority.
When is the best time of year to hike the Double Oak Loop?
October through April provides the most comfortable conditions, avoiding summer heat on the exposed quartzite ridge. Fall foliage in October makes the ridge section particularly scenic with views toward Birmingham.
Is Oak Mountain State Park a good day trip from Birmingham?
Yes. The park is approximately 20 miles south of downtown Birmingham via I-65, making it an easy day trip. The park's lake, wildlife center, and trail system support a full day of activities beyond the hike.
Are mountain bikes permitted on the Double Oak Loop?
The Double Oak Loop trail is designated for hikers only. Oak Mountain State Park maintains a separate extensive mountain bike trail network. Confirm current trail designations with the park office before visiting.