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Cheaha Wilderness: Alabama's Mountain Escape

Discover Alabama's wild side in Cheaha Wilderness: Hike scenic trails, experience breathtaking views, and connect with nature.

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Escape to Cheaha Wilderness, a protected area within Talladega National Forest, boasting Alabama's highest point and dramatic landscapes. Hike scenic trails, spot wildlife, and immerse yourself in the state's natural beauty.

A brief summary to Cheaha Wilderness

  • Lineville, Alabama, 36266, US
  • Monday 6 am-10 pm
  • Tuesday 6 am-10 pm
  • Wednesday 6 am-10 pm
  • Thursday 6 am-10 pm
  • Friday 6 am-10 pm
  • Saturday 6 am-10 pm
  • Sunday 6 am-10 pm

Local tips

  • Bring a compass and map, as some trails within the wilderness are not well-marked [9].
  • Wear bright orange clothing during hunting season [2].
  • Be prepared for rocky and uneven terrain on many of the trails [8, 15].
  • Check for fire closures before planning a campfire [2].
  • Purchase a trail map at the Cheaha State Park Country Store [9].
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Getting There

  • Driving

    To reach Cheaha Wilderness from I-20, take US 431 south [4, 5]. Then, turn onto AL State Route 281 (Talladega Skyway) and follow it to trailheads like Cheaha Wilderness Trailhead [5]. Alternatively, from Cheaha State Park, several trailheads are a short drive away [21]. Parking is available at trailheads, but spaces fill quickly on weekends and holidays [11]. Cheaha State Park charges an entrance fee of $5 for adults [11, 17, 19]. There are no unavoidable tolls.

  • Walking

    Many trails into Cheaha Wilderness can be accessed from Cheaha State Park [21]. From the park's Mountain Store, follow signs to various trailheads [9, 17]. The Pinhoti Trail, for example, can be accessed from the Cheaha Trailhead [21]. Be aware that some trails are not well-marked, so a map and compass are recommended [9]. There are no additional costs beyond the park entrance fee ($5 for adults) [11, 17, 19].

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Discover more about Cheaha Wilderness

The Cheaha Wilderness, nestled within the Talladega National Forest in Alabama, encompasses over 7,245 acres of the state's most dramatic landscapes [7, 12]. Home to Cheaha Mountain, the highest point in Alabama at 2,407 feet, this protected area presents a series of striking ridges and valleys that offer diverse ecological habitats [2, 7, 12]. From the stone tower on Cheaha Mountain's summit, a dense woodland stretches into the wilderness [2, 7]. The wilderness attracts hikers to the Pinhoti National Recreation Trail, a significant portion of which runs through it [2, 7]. This 7.8-mile stretch crosses the top of Cheaha Mountain, offering scenic ridge walks and panoramic views [2, 12]. Other popular trails include the Chinnabee Silent Trail, Cave Creek Trail, and Nubbin Creek Trail, each providing unique perspectives of the area [2]. Historically, the area holds significance for Native American tribes and later became a haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts [12]. In 1983, the U.S. Congress officially designated the Cheaha Wilderness, later expanding it in 1988 [7]. This designation came about thanks to the efforts of Boy Scouts who developed the Odum Scout Trail, and wilderness advocates who opposed the construction of a highway through the area [6]. The wilderness provides a sanctuary for diverse wildlife, including black bears, white-tailed deer, and numerous bird species [2, 12]. Wilderness camping and campfires are permitted, with some restrictions during high fire periods [2]. Hunting is also allowed during hunting season, so wearing bright orange is recommended [2].

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