Gulf Oak Ridge Trail: A Coastal Forest Escape
Discover a serene escape amidst ancient oaks and diverse wildlife on Gulf Oak Ridge Trail, a gem within Gulf State Park's natural beauty.
The Gulf Oak Ridge Trail, nestled within Gulf State Park, offers a unique blend of coastal beauty and forest serenity. This 3.2-mile trail winds through a maritime forest, showcasing ancient moss-draped oaks and diverse wildlife, providing a tranquil escape from the nearby beach bustle [1, 5, 21].
A brief summary to Gulf Oak Ridge Trailhead West
- Gulf Oak Ridge Trail, Orange Beach, Alabama, 36561, US
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-7 pm
- Thursday 6 am-7 pm
- Friday 6 am-7 pm
- Saturday 6 am-7 pm
- Sunday 6 am-7 pm
Local tips
- Bring binoculars for optimal birdwatching, especially during spring and fall migrations [15].
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking, running, or biking on the paved trail [1, 5].
- Stay on marked trails to protect the delicate ecosystem and avoid encounters with wildlife [3].
- Visit during cooler months for a more comfortable hiking experience, as summer can be hot and humid [7].
- Check the Gulf State Park website for trail conditions and any temporary closures [1].
Getting There
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Driving
From Highway 59 in Gulf Shores, head east on the Gulf Shores Parkway (Highway 182). Turn left onto AL-135 N/State Park Road. Follow State Park Road; the Gulf Oak Ridge Trailhead West will be on your left [9]. Parking is $10 per day [2, 4, 9].
-
Biking
If you are already within Gulf State Park, access the Gulf Oak Ridge Trailhead West via the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail [9]. Follow the signs for the Gulf Oak Ridge Trail. Bike rentals are available within the park [9, 16, 17]. Free bike rentals are available through the Gulf State Park bike share program for those 16 and older [16, 17].
-
Taxi/Ride-Share
From most locations in Orange Beach or Gulf Shores, a taxi or ride-share service (Uber/Lyft) can take you directly to the Gulf Oak Ridge Trailhead West [9]. The drop-off point is at the parking area. Expect to pay around $15-$25 for a one-way trip, depending on the distance and demand [9]. Parking at the trailhead is $10 per day if the driver stays [2, 4, 9].
Discover more about Gulf Oak Ridge Trailhead West
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