A new hiking trail in Pelham, Alabama may be the answer - at least for a moment - for those of us who enjoy nature the most when we can hear ourselves think, or at least tune into more chattering of the woods, water, and their creatures than the sounds of other people. Why? Because it's new, and crowds haven't discovered it yet. It feels especially rare to have that experience at a well-known place like Alabama's largest state park, Oak Mountain State Park. The Lunker Lake Trail opened in April 2023 and offers that vibe - for now.

I experienced the internal conflict recently visiting a lifetime favorite trail at a state park in Kentucky that has risen in popularity only in the last few years. I was excited to make my annual holiday weekend visit and yet knew right away I should have arrived at least one hour earlier that morning to have the trail more to myself. So how do you please new visitors while meeting the expectations of repeat guests looking to sustain quieter traditions? Thoughtfully create new paths. A partnership of local and state groups rose to the challenge with the Lunker Lake Trail at Oak Mountain State Park.

Lunker Lake is among four sparkling lakes at Oak Mountain State Park and covers 85 acres of its northernmost section.

Just below Lunker Lake is Beaver Lake, which also extends 85 acres. Moving southwest you'll find the 28-acre Lake Tranquility, which, true to its name, is smaller, super quiet, and intended for use only by the surrounding cabin guests. Further south is Double Oak Lake near the park's ranger station, interpretive center, and nature center. The lake extends 60 acres and includes a marina, beach, and lakeside pavilion.

Mountain bikers can directly access the new, 2.8-mile, moderate trail at the Lunker Lake boat launch or the Oak Mountain Bike Trailhead parking area.

Those who want a longer ride or hike can start at the North Trailhead parking area and take the North Lakes Connector Trail, which was completed in 2017. Take the connector northeast 2.2 miles to reach the new Lunker Lake Trail, which is 2.8 miles. Take the connector trail back to finish just over 7 miles of cycling or hiking.

Well-behaved pups and conscientious parents are welcomed at Oak Mountain State Park. Most of the park is dog-friendly with reasonable rules most pet owners know to expect.

Dogs are allowed in campsites, two cabins (with a small pet fee), and on trails as long as they are on leashes that are 6 feet or less. If you bring your dog along for hikes, stay hyper-aware of which trails allow mountain biking, like the new Lunker Lake Trail. On these trails especially, lose the earbuds and be on the lookout for these faster-moving trail mates for everyone's sake.

Sometimes you'll even see pups get in on the paddle sports on Oak Mountain State Park's several lakes.

When these turtles take a dip, they share stocked lake waters with thousands of largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, and bream that draw anglers from all around for fishing.

Back on land, expect to see a wide variety of the park's animal inhabitants as you walk, hike, run, or bike the newest hiking and mountain biking trail in Alabama.

Get your birding checklist ready: Feathered friends are a big part of the experience at Oak Mountain State Park, which is part of the Appalachian Highlands Birding Trail segment of the large Alabama Birding Trails system.

Great Blue Herons are just one among scores of species and individual birds you'll see at Oak Mountain State Park. The two northeastern fishing lakes - Beaver and Lunker - are among the best areas within the park to observe birds in every season.

Few things broaden your horizons than a show-stopping view, and Oak Mountain State Park's hiking and biking trails certainly have them.

It's worth it to extend your stay with an overnighter to experience a sunset or sunrise view from King's Chair Overlook, which is accessible by multiple trail routes sweeping southward from the North Trailhead.

Surely we've piqued your interest in the many other enchanting trails at Oak Mountain State Park. Let us know about your experiences there, especially if you try the latest trail around Lunker Lake. If you're planning a trip, gear up with our Ultimate Hiking Pack List of 75 must-have hiking accessories for tackling the trails.

For the latest information from the park, including visitor fees and weather updates, visit the Oak Mountain State Park website and Oak Mountain State Park Facebook page.