Oak Mountain State Park unveiled its newest multi-use trail on Friday, April 21, 2023, as officials from Alabama State Parks joined local officials for a ribbon-cutting ceremony.
The new trail – known as the Lunker Lake Trail – circles the lake and provides breathtaking views of the water as it meanders along the shoreline and through the forest. The trail was built through a partnership between the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR), the Shelby County Commission and the Shelby County Parks and Recreation Authority (SCPARA).
“It’s always wonderful to offer a new outdoors activity at any of our 21 Alabama State Parks,” said Chris Blankenship, ADCNR Commissioner. “We’re fortunate to work with our outstanding partners here in Shelby County to build this trail and help make Oak Mountain State Park better than ever. We thank all of the local leaders and SCPARA for helping make this trail a reality.”
The dirt trail stretches 2.8 miles, features varying widths, and is designed to accommodate walking, running and mountain biking. The trail can be accessed near the Lunker Lake boat launch or from the Oak Mountain Bike Trailhead parking area.
“It’s so rewarding that we could all come together and build this trail at Oak Mountain State Park,” Shelby County Commissioner Lindsey Allison said. “Oak Mountain is clearly one of the top attractions here in Shelby County and we love playing a role in helping the park continue to thrive. No one will be surprised if the Lunker Lake Trail becomes one of the park’s most popular trails for runners, mountain bikers or anyone who wants stroll through the woods and enjoy the park’s stunning natural beauty.”
About Oak Mountain State Park
Oak Mountain State Park is Alabama’s largest state park and features more than 11,000 acres, including more than 100 miles of trails, an 18-hole golf course and driving range, horseback riding facilities, fishing lakes, boat rentals, picnic and beach areas and majestic Peavine Falls. The Alabama Wildlife Center, located inside the park, offers rehabilitation services to injured native birds to return them to the wild. The resident birds can be viewed from the Tree Top Nature Trail, an elevated boardwalk winding through a secluded woodland valley. Learn more at www.alapark.com/parks/oak-mountain-state-park.
ADCNR promotes wise stewardship, management and enjoyment of Alabama’s natural resources through four divisions: Marine Resources, State Lands, State Parks, and Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries. Learn more at www.outdooralabama.com.
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