Cheaha Mountain: Alabama's Island in the Sky
Discover Alabama's highest point: panoramic views, rich history, and outdoor adventures await at Cheaha Mountain in Cheaha State Park.
Rising 2,407 feet above sea level, Cheaha Mountain, translated from the Creek word 'Chaha' meaning 'high place', is the apex of Alabama's natural beauty [4, 5, 15]. Nestled within the 2,799-acre Cheaha State Park and the sprawling Talladega National Forest, this mountain offers a unique blend of accessibility and wilderness [5, 13]. Cheaha's history is as captivating as its views. Long before European settlers, the Creek Nation called this area home, leaving behind archaeological evidence of their presence [3, 15]. In the 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) played a pivotal role in developing the park, constructing roads, trails, cabins, and the iconic Bunker Tower, a stone observation tower that marks the highest point [3, 4, 11]. The CCC Museum, located in the base of the tower, pays homage to their contributions [3, 5]. Today, visitors can drive to the summit and ascend the Bunker Tower's 63 steps for 360-degree views that, on a clear day, stretch as far as Birmingham and the Talladega Superspeedway [4, 5, 13]. For those seeking a closer connection with nature, numerous hiking trails wind through the park, including the accessible Bald Rock Boardwalk and the more challenging Chinnabee Silent Trail [6, 7, 16]. Bald Rock offers a wheelchair-accessible wooden walkway to another impressive overlook [5, 9]. Whether you're drawn to the historical significance, the panoramic vistas, or the outdoor adventures, Cheaha Mountain promises an unforgettable experience [5, 13].
Local tips
- Visit the CCC Museum in Bunker Tower to learn about the park's development during the Great Depression [3, 5].
- Hike the Bald Rock Boardwalk for an accessible and stunning overlook [5, 9].
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic pull-offs along the road or near Cheaha Lake [5, 8].
- Check the Alabama State Parks website for educational programs and guided hikes [5].
A brief summary to Cheaha Mountain
- Alabama, US
Getting There
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Driving
To reach Cheaha Mountain, take either Exit 191 or 199 on I-20, slightly east of Oxford [4]. Follow the signs toward Cheaha State Park or Talladega Scenic Drive (Highway 281) [4, 13]. The park entrance is approximately 20 miles from I-20, a drive of about 30 minutes [4]. Once inside Cheaha State Park, follow the signs to the mountain summit and Bunker Tower [4]. Parking is available near the summit [4, 8]. Park entrance fees range from $2 to $5 per person [4].
