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Print Friendly MapThe Gulf Oak Ridge Trail is part of a network called the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trails, located off the Gulf of Mexico coastline near the Alabama/Florida border. The trail starts at a paved trailhead parking area off State Park Road 2, north of Shelby Lake, and runs about 3 miles to the Orange Beach Sportsplex. You can connect to the other trails at its eastern end, just below the Sportsplex, where it meets the Twin Bridges Trail.
The pathway offers a charming, easy ride under the canopy of mossy old-growth trees within Gulf State Park. Along the way, keep your eyes open for birds as the area is known as an excellent birding site, as well as armadillos, coyotes, foxes, wild boar, alligators and other animals that call the maritime forest and wetlands home.
Parking can be found at the State Park Road 2 Trailhead on the trail's western end, or at the Orange Beach Sportsplex (4385 William Silvers Parkway) at the trail's eastern end.
Of all the trails in Gulf State Park, this was my favorite. An easy, gradual climb from the trailhead provides a spectacular view from an awesome viewing platform at the ridge's summit! The well maintained trail is fun to ride as it gently meanders through the woodlands. Benches and swings are plentiful along the tree lined trail to give one an opportunity to relax and enjoy the serenity of this path. Be sure to appreciate the variety of trees and the Spanish moss growing in some of them.
Lovely trails. This is just part of a series of biking/walking trails in Gulf State Park. Not all the trails are listed on this website yet (they all connect). We stayed at the Lodge at Gulf State Park, a Hilton Hotel, which was directly across the street from the trails so we started at the hotel. Trails were paved but also crossed several wooden bridges. There was also a motor home park within the complex which looked like a good option too. I liked the variety of the trails, some in woods, some in sun. I would definitely recommend these trails.
Beautiful trail, lots of benches to take a break on if needed. Restrooms are always clean. Oak Ridge trail is always fun, inclines are tough if you aren't prepared but downhill is amazingly awesome with the speed you get! The Oak trees are beautiful there is a nice overlook to have lunch on.
I run these trails almost every week! They are beautiful and never get old.
One of the most beautiful trails in the park. A few inclines, but not difficult! Well worth scheduling a ride or walk.
Beautiful bike trails. Paved and wide. Many benches and restrooms and water stations along the way too. Best I’ve ever been to.
This is one of many trails in the park. All trails are well maintained and take you to different areas of the park. Download trail mail before you set off so you can follow your route. Highly recommend!
This trail is part of a great trail system in Gulf State park. I suggest that you stop at the visitors center for a map of the entire network as it's easy to get lost
This series of trails takes you through different terrain, open semi marsh, shaded oaks and wooded areas. Not sure how many miles all total but I would say around 10-12 miles. Great black top surface! Restrooms, benches to rest and a shelter if needed. We have done it 3 different times of year, fall is our favorite. Watch for snakes crossing the road in the hot time of year. Falling leaves in fall is cool. My favorite part of the trail is through the oaks and the trail gets hilly and twisting. I assure you, you will enjoy this ride!!!!!!!
This connects with a series of trails of equal quality. Don't let the short distance fool you. I easily out in. 15mile workout. Pavement was incredible. Loved the hills and minimal interruptions. FAIR WARNING--when the sun is setting don't look up or too much to your sides of you have a morbid fear of spiders! The trail was well maintained but I guess there is little that can be done at the treetops
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