Five Mile Creek Greenway Loop
Five Mile Creek Greenway Loop
4.9
(8357)
9,586
riders
Five Mile Creek Greenway Loop
03:28
56.8km
350m
Cycling
Embark on the Five Mile Creek Greenway Loop for a moderate touring bicycle ride that spans 35.3 miles (56.8 km). You will pedal through quiet, shaded wooded areas, often catching glimpses of Five Mile Creek as you go. The route features alternating groves of mature open-understory hardwoods, creating a serene atmosphere. With an elevation gain of 1150 feet (351 metres), this journey typically takes about 3 hours and 28 minutes, offering a relaxed and scenic experience.
Accessing the Five Mile Creek Greenway Loop is straightforward, with convenient parking available at several points. A popular starting location is Black Creek Park in Fultondale, which provides easy entry to the trail. This park, along with others like Bensko Park, offers additional amenities such as ball fields, pavilions, and playgrounds. These facilities make it simple to begin your touring bicycle adventure and enjoy the surrounding area.
As you cycle, keep an eye out for the abundant birdlife that thrives along Five Mile Creek. Herons are frequently spotted in the spring and summer months, adding to the natural beauty of the area. The trail's consistent proximity to the creek and its mature hardwood groves create a unique ecosystem, making it a notable route for nature observation within the region.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
87 m
Avondale Park
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
25.8 km
Five Mile Creek Greenway
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
54.5 km
Sloss Furnaces
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
56.8 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
23.7 km
17.0 km
11.7 km
2.25 km
2.22 km
Surfaces
27.2 km
15.8 km
11.7 km
2.14 km
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Elevation
Highest point (210 m)
Lowest point (130 m)
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Weather
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Sunday 31 May
31°C
20°C
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the main access points and parking for the greenway?
Convenient parking and access points are available at various locations. A key access point is at Black Creek Park in Fultondale. Adjoining parks like Bensko Park and Black Creek Park also offer additional amenities.
Is the Five Mile Creek Greenway Loop dog-friendly?
The greenway is generally dog-friendly, but always ensure your dog is on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain a pleasant experience for all users.
What is the best time of year to cycle the greenway?
The greenway offers a pleasant experience throughout much of the year. Spring and fall provide comfortable temperatures and vibrant scenery. Herons are a common sight along the creek in spring and summer, making those seasons particularly good for birdwatching.
Do I need any permits or pay entrance fees to use the greenway?
No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access and enjoy the Five Mile Creek Greenway.
What is the terrain like on the greenway?
The trail primarily utilizes a former rail bed, resulting in a flat and level grade. It's a wide, well-maintained path, largely composed of crushed stone or crushed gravel. While generally smooth, some sections of crushed limestone might be more comfortable with fat tires.
Is the trail suitable for beginners or e-bikes?
Yes, the greenway is an easy ride, suitable for all skill levels, including beginners. Its flat and well-maintained surface makes it ideal for e-bikes, with minimal pedal assistance often sufficient, even for senior riders.
What kind of scenery and wildlife can I expect to see?
You can anticipate a quiet and scenic journey, with much of the trail winding through shaded, wooded areas. There are frequent glimpses of Five Mile Creek, and the path is lined with alternating groves of mature hardwoods. The area is noted for abundant birdlife, including songbirds, woodpeckers, various hawks, and herons along the creek in spring and summer.
Is the Five Mile Creek Greenway Loop a true loop, or is it an out-and-back route?
The Five Mile Creek Greenway is currently an out-and-back route. It spans approximately 8.25 miles one way, allowing for a substantial 16.5-mile round trip.
Are there any notable landmarks or points of interest along the route?
While cycling the greenway, you'll be riding along the scenic Five Mile Creek Greenway itself. Nearby, you can also find Avondale Park and the historic Sloss Furnaces.
Are there amenities like restrooms or playgrounds along the greenway?
Adjoining parks, such as Bensko Park and Black Creek Park, offer additional amenities like ball fields, pavilions, and playgrounds, which can be convenient stops along your ride.
Are there plans for future expansion of the Five Mile Creek Greenway?
Yes, there are ambitious plans for future expansion. The vision is to extend the greenway over 27 miles, connecting multiple communities across Central Alabama, making it a significant regional recreational asset.
Does the greenway connect with other trails?
Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Five Mile Creek Greenway, Sky Line Drive, Pleasant Valley Drive, 37th Alley West, 3rd Street West, 36th Street North, and Five Mile Creek Rails to Trails.