This optional 3-mile loop splits off from Tashka Trail approximately 5.8 miles from the South Trailhead (calculated by a clockwise route). For ambitious users, Five Oaks extends the total distance of the connected trails to 15.3 miles. If approached from the North Trailhead (traveling counterclockwise), Five Oaks Loop splits off from Tashka Trail 4.8 miles from the trail’s start.

The Tashka Trail System totals approximately 23.47 miles of trails comprised on one main trail with five loops off of the main trail. This system has only two trail heads (north and south) to access the trails.

Courtesy: Alabama State Parks

Lake Lurleen is one of Alabama’s larger state parks, and it offers a lot to the visitor. There are scattered shade trees past the entrance gate and songbirds are often present. In spring, expect Eastern Bluebirds, Eastern Kingbirds and abundant numbers of Cliff Swallows. To the left of the fishing pier begins a series of walking trails, some of which parallel the shoreline. Orchard Orioles and Red-headed Woodpeckers may be observed in the pines. Follow the trails to find a good variety of songbirds in the trees on the left hand (inland) side. This is a particularly good area to search for migrants in spring and fall, and for foraging mixed-species feeding flocks in the colder months.

Courtesy Alabama Birding Trails