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Cheaha Resort State Park: Alabama's Island in the Sky

Discover Alabama's highest peak at Cheaha Resort State Park. Breathtaking views, historic landmarks, and outdoor adventures await in Talladega National Forest.

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Discover Cheaha Resort State Park, the highest point in Alabama, offering breathtaking views, rich history, and diverse outdoor activities. Established in 1933, this park is nestled in the Talladega National Forest and features unique geological formations and structures built by the Civilian Conservation Corps [2, 3].

A brief summary to Cheaha Resort State Park

Local tips

  • Visit Bunker Tower for panoramic views, but be aware that there are several flights of stairs to reach the observation deck [3].
  • Hike the Rock Garden Trail after a rain for the best views of Angel Falls [3].
  • Purchase park trail maps at the Mountain Store for detailed information on hiking trails [3, 11].
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the park's scenic picnic areas [3].
  • Consider visiting during the fall for stunning foliage views [3, 6].
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Getting There

  • Driving

    To reach Cheaha Resort State Park, navigate to AL-281 [9]. From I-20, take exit 191 and head south on Hwy 431, then turn right onto Hwy 281 and follow the signs to the park [3]. From the south, take AL Hwy 9 to AL Hwy 49 to AL Hwy 281 [3]. Be aware that Cheaha Road (County Road 42) from Munford is not recommended for large RVs [3, 4]. Typical parking fees are included in the park entrance fee [6]. Day visitors (ages 12 and older): $5; Children (ages 4-11): $2; Seniors (62+ with ID): $2 [3, 4]. Annual passes are available [4, 21].

  • Public Transport

    Public transportation options are limited in this rural area [9]. The nearest city with public transport is Talladega [9]. You can take a Greyhound or a local bus to Talladega. From there, you may need to arrange for a taxi or rideshare service to reach Cheaha State Park, which is approximately 25 miles away from Talladega [9]. Be sure to check the availability of local taxi services or rideshare apps.

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Discover more about Cheaha Resort State Park

Cheaha Resort State Park, perched atop Cheaha Mountain, Alabama's highest point at 2,407 feet, beckons travelers with stunning vistas and a rich history [3]. Known as the "Island in the Sky," the park spans 2,799 acres of granite boulders, wind-warped trees, and lush forests, offering a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers [2, 3]. Established in 1933, Cheaha holds the distinction of being Alabama's oldest continuously operating state park [2, 3, 15]. Its origins are intertwined with the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), who developed the park's infrastructure during the Great Depression [3, 12, 15]. The CCC's legacy is evident in the park's numerous structures, including the iconic Bunker Tower, a stone bathhouse, cabins, pavilions, and hiking trails, all meticulously crafted from local materials [3, 12]. Bunker Tower offers unparalleled panoramic views of the surrounding landscape [3, 15]. Climb to the top of the tower's observation deck and immerse yourself in a 360-degree vista of rolling hills, verdant forests, and distant horizons [3]. The park boasts a diverse network of hiking trails for all skill levels [3]. The Bald Rock Boardwalk Trail, an accessible half-mile loop, provides stunning views and birdwatching opportunities [3]. For a more challenging trek, embark on the Lake Trail, a steep descent to Cheaha Lake, where you can enjoy swimming, fishing, and paddling [3, 5]. Pulpit Rock Trail offers a moderately challenging hike to a scenic overlook [3, 5]. Cheaha State Park is also rich in history and culture. The Walter Farr Native American Relic Museum showcases artifacts that shed light on the area's indigenous heritage [3]. Explore the park's historic structures, and learn about the CCC's impact on the region during the Great Depression [3]. Cheaha provides lodging options to suit every traveler's needs, including the Cheaha Mountain Lodge, cozy cabins, chalets, and campgrounds [3]. Throughout the year, the park hosts events and activities, including guided hikes, birding walks, and stargazing parties [3].

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