Hiking Oak Mountain Friday and Saturday

[DavidR]

I know that it's probably going to rain Friday but that will make it all the more fun. I plan on starting tat the North blue trailhead and heading towards Peavine Falls. About midway on the blue trial I intend to go off trail up to the ridge overlooking the park and follow it as far as Peavine if I can. After checking out the falls that should be running well after the rain, I'm heading up the green trail to the parking area and heading home. I could do it in one day easy, but this is my girlfriend's first camping trip. I think she'll appreciate the rain and it's a very scenic trail. Anyone have any POIs to share on that route?

[Lostsheep]

I'm assuming your going to try to camp out on the blue trail for Fri night? If so, there's a few things you'll need to know...

1 - I'm no ranger, but the park has 2 approved backcountry campsites. Anywhere else, is considered against the regs and you can be fined. The known established campsites are: Yellow Trail - 1.6mi from N Trailhead & Orange Trail (have not measured distances). Just don't want to see you get fined.

2 - Here's a good trail guide (though a little dated) of Oak Mtn that may help you prepare: http://www.alabamatrail.o.../hikingAL/OakMt/OakMt.htm

Check out the chimney's (red trail, couple miles in from N trailhead), the cabins near the lake (yellow by old lake), the dam/spillway (yellow trail near cabins), the ridge walking on the blue trail, maggies glen for a break.

Either way, you shouldn't have an issue with water.

Let us know how it goes!

[Lostsheep]

Also, check this out too: http://home.earthlink.net...m#Orienteering%20Injuries

If you click on the Orange "ALABAMA PARKS" you'll get a good bit of info on Oak Mtn. This is from the Vulcan Orienteering club and has waypoints and profiles for the trails. Including junctions, crossings, and the yellow campsite. The park office will be able to give you the other location.