United StatesAlabama Keel Mt. North
Keel Mt. North Bike Climb - PJAMM Cycling

7.5
PDI
1.5 mi
DISTANCE
865 ft
GAINED
11.1 %
AVG. GRADE
FULL CLIMB STATS
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Page Contributor(s): Dan Razum, San Jose, CA

INTRO

"Perhaps the most difficult climb in the state, the north side of Keel Mountain Road near Huntsville, AL is a short but very steep test.  The road is steep immediately so be ready early on this one as the first mile is one of the steepest in the U.S.  Just under a mile into the assault the road turns to the right and eases a bit shortly thereafter.  The grade is variable from here and only eases near the top at an intersection..." (This quote is provided with the approval of John Summerson from his book, The Complete Guide to Climbing (by Bike), 2nd Edition, pg. 100.)

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CLIMB SUMMARY

Cycling Keel Mountain North

Ride 1.5 miles gaining 865’ at 11.1% average grade.

This is the top ranked bike climb in Alabama and is also the steepest overall climb (start to finish) at 11.1% than any other climb and has the steepest 1 mile segment in the state.

Climb summary by PJAMM ambassador Dan Razum.

The climb isn't too long but it makes up for that by being steep.  There are a lot of trees along the way providing shade, but you're still going to break a sweat on this one. It starts out with double digits right from the beginning and it doesn't let up until you reach the top.

The road is in decent condition.  There are a couple of places where the road is wide, but for the most part there is no shoulder.  But traffic is light and doesn't move fast, so it felt safe to bike.

At the top the road continues on and will eventually run into the Keel Hollow climb, so it is easy to add on additional riding, if you so desire.

A couple of blocks from the base of the climb there is ample parking at the Gurley Recreational Center.  There are also places to park along Highway 72, although it is probably better not  to bike along Highway 72, it is busy with high speed traffic.