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Cycling the Scenic Bike Trails in Gulf Shores, AL

Gulf Shores is the ultimate beach destination on the Alabama Gulf Coast, attracting beach bums from far and wide. But, Gulf Shores is also an excellent destination for adventurers looking to hike, paddle, and bike through scenic landscapes. One of our favorite places to embark on adventures can be found at Gulf State Park. In the park, you can find miles of paved and backcountry bike trails in Gulf Shores, AL. Within these trails, you can explore nine distinct ecosystems that showcase the diverse beauty of Alabama. And when you need a break from the trails, you can relax in your spacious Young’s Suncoast vacation rental!

Gulf Shores Bike Rentals

Before exploring the local trails, you will need a bike rental for the day. The Camp Store next to the Nature Center in Gulf State Park offers bike rentals for your convenience. If you prefer to begin your biking in Orange Beach, we recommend starting at the Rosemary Dunes trailhead. You can find bike rentals adjacent to the trail at Beach Bike Rentals.

Bike Trails in Gulf Shores, AL

The Gulf State Park features 28 miles of paved paths and seven trails in the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry complex. These bike trails in Gulf Shores, AL, offer diverse landscapes from coastal hardwood swamps to freshwater marshes. Read on to discover the available trails and plan your cycling route before you arrive.

  • Rosemary Dunes: Begin at this trail from Beach Bike Rentals and cycle past cattails, wildflowers, and pine trees. Keep an eye out for alligators and reptiles on the marsh banks.
  • Catman Road: This easy trail is great for families with views of maritime forests and marshy ponds. We recommend stopping at Boulder Park for rock climbing and then heading to the Pavillon and Butterfly Garden next to the park.
  • Twin Bridges: This one-mile trail connects Catman Road to Gulf Oak Ridge. This route will take you through draping oaks, past native plants, and over a scenic wooden bridge.
  • Gulf Oak Ridge: Ride under the canopies of ancient mossy oaks on this trail until you reach a picturesque overlook of the valley below.
  • Rattlesnake Ridge: Rattlesnake Ridge is the perfect trail for those who want to spot some local wildlife. As you ride through the dense trees, keep an eye out for tortoises, armadillos, rabbits, snakes, salamanders, and various bird species.
  • Cotton Bayou: This route is the perfect gateway to access the rest of the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trails.
  • Coyote Crossing: This trail is the newest route in Gulf State Park, connecting Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. You can access the Fort Morgan Road Trail from here for an even longer bike ride.

The Best Gulf Shores Vacation Rentals

Start planning your vacation on the Alabama Gulf Coast and unlock your adventurous side on the local bike trails. You can find the best bike trails in Gulf Shores, AL, just a short drive away from your Young’s Suncoast vacation rental. From large homes to beachfront condos, we have over 200 properties in Gulf Shores. If you need assistance finding the right rental property, you can contact us at 800-826-1213.