South Rim Loop

Oak Mountain offers an abundance of trails throughout the park. Portions of the park were constructed during the great depression, by men serving in the Civil Conservation Corp. Roadways, culverts, and structures throughout the park are marked with signs of their craftsmanship and ingenuity. This hike begins at the North trail head and follows Peavine Road south southwest up the mountain. Peavine Road curves throughout the length of the park eventually ending right below the Peavine parking area. The Kings Chair Red and Blue hike, takes hikers along a similar path until reaching the second red/blue connector. At the connector, instead of turning south and climbing the mountain, continue along Peavine Road. Peavine Road continues along a lower crest of the mountain passing several stream crossings. Numerous rock culverts can be seen along the route. The curved culvert shown in photo seven is a unique design. Most of this portion is smooth sand and gravel; however, as you progress higher into the hill, the road becomes more washed out with larger rocks and stones. One of the many backwoods camping shelters can also be found on the trail.

Two and a quarter miles into the hike, you will reach the orange connector. Turning to the left, the orange connector is slightly overgrown and a much narrower path than the Peavine road. The orange trail, roughly a quarter of a mile, connects the roadway and the blue trail. Another backwoods camping spot is located along the connector and offers a large fire pit and spacious accommodations for several tents.

When you reach the crest of the trail, be sure to the short overlook trail to the very top of the mountain. Returning to the blue trail, travel north east just below the ridge. The blue trail starts at Peavine Falls and ends at the north trail head. A total distance of 6.7 miles, the trail offers some great overlooks especially during the fall and winter months. For this hike, most of the trail is level with a dirty and gravel surface. There are some parts with larger exposed rocks. Hiking one mile, you will come to the second red/blue connector. Since in the previous hike we took the blue trail to Kings Chair, this time we turn downhill and return to Peavine Road for the hike home.

If you are looking for a slightly longer hike, trekkers can combine this loop with the Kings Chair loop. During the hot summer months, this trek can be strenuous; so be sure to carry plenty of water. Overall the hike offers come nice historical artifacts as well as scenic views. It is well worth the time and effort.