While Alabama’s fall foliage show starts in the northern part of the state, do not discount the wondrous wash of colors that extend far to the south. One such destination is the sprawling, 11,861-acre Oak Mountain State Park in Pelham, Alabama. Established in 1927, it is the state’s oldest state park. It’s also the largest and a definite favorite among trail adventurers, especially when the leaves change each fall.

Located just 20 miles south of Birmingham in Pelham, the park has over 100 miles of trails for hikers, mountain bikers, trail runners, and equestrians. While some of that total is multi-use, a good amount is set aside for each of these groups so they can enjoy their chosen adventure to its fullest: 27 miles are for equestrians only; 32 are for hikers only; and 42 are for mountain bikers and hikers.

Since the whole park bursts with color during peak leaf season, it can be tough to pick one trail among these to be the “best.” That said, I am going with the Red Road Trail for its solid trail user ratings, the fact it’s considered moderate, and perhaps most of all, its 12.7-mile, out-and-back route. It’s long but not too tough for beginners and gives you ample time to take in the fall wonder of the dense forest surrounding you. And of course, you don’t have to do the whole thing, depending on how much time you have!

The Red Trail/Road begins at the North Trailhead on John Findley Drive, which is about six miles into the park from the front gate and about two miles in from the back gate. Other trails that start here are the White, Blue, North Lakes Connector, and Yellow trails. This trail is called a “road” because it follows an original logging road used by Civilian Conservation Corps workers in the 1930s as they built out the park.

The admission fee to access the park is $5 for ages 12 to 61; $2 for ages 4 to 11; and $2 for ages seniors who are 62 or older. Admission is waived for kids who are age 3 or younger, as well as active or retired military members and veterans.

What makes fall colors so special here is the contrasts: The largest longleaf pine forest in Alabama soars from the grounds of Oak Mountain State Park, framing all of the color pops of the deciduous hardwoods. The park also has the largest known population of much shorter and endangered Boynton Oak Trees. There are two more rare species discovered in recent years here, too — the Georgia Aster and Alabama Sandstone Oak.

Rocky outcrops and creek crossings punctuate the trail, so wear sturdy and water-resistant shoes. Some hikers recommend leather boots to tackle the rocks comfortably. You’ll see hikers and mountain bikers on this trail, which includes easy walking on gentle inclines to steep ascents in some places, giving it that moderate difficulty rating.  

Along the way, keep watch for the park's abundant wildlife, including white-tailed deer, gray squirrels, and dozens of bird species. If you’re doing the whole trail, pack snacks for a well-earned pause midway through. (As always, remember to pack up your trash and leave no trace.) Also, pups are welcomed as long as you keep them on a physical leash no longer than six feet in length. The park does have an off-leash, enclosed dog park for freer romping if needed.

Just a few other amenities you can enjoy at this massive park include fully renovated camping facilities, multiple picnic areas, and a golf course. If you’re like me and want a dose of education with your recreation, plan some time to visit the Oak Mountain Interpretive Center and Alabama Wildlife Center to learn more about the park’s history and the creatures who call it home.

If you've not taken this trail before, consider signing up for an AllTrails account to get more details and firsthand reviews from hikers about the Red Road Trail at Oak Mountain State Park. And if you're a frequent OMSP trail trekker, we'd love to hear your thoughts on this one!