Cheaha Mountain: Alabama's Rooftop
Reach Alabama's highest point for panoramic views, rich history, and outdoor adventures in Cheaha State Park and Talladega National Forest.
Cheaha Mountain, rising to 2,407 feet above sea level, is the highest point in Alabama, offering stunning vistas and a rich history [5]. Located within Cheaha State Park, itself cradled by the vast Talladega National Forest, this 'Island in the Sky' provides a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance [8, 9]. The mountain's name, 'Cheaha,' comes from the Creek Indian word meaning 'high place,' reflecting its importance to the indigenous people who inhabited the region for centuries [4, 8, 19]. Evidence of early Native American settlements has been found near the mountain's base [4, 19]. Cheaha State Park, established in 1933, is Alabama's oldest continuously operating state park [4, 5, 8, 16, 17]. During the Great Depression, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) played a crucial role in developing the park, constructing roads, trails, and iconic structures like the Bunker Tower, a stone observation tower offering 360-degree views [4, 5, 16]. Climb the 63 steps to the top of the Bunker Observation Tower for views that, on a clear day, can stretch as far as Birmingham and the Talladega Superspeedway [5, 8, 17]. The CCC Museum, located in the base of the tower, honors the contributions of those who shaped the park [4, 5, 8, 17]. Today, Cheaha Mountain offers a variety of recreational activities. Hike the numerous trails, ranging from easy boardwalks like the Doug Ghee Accessible Trail to more challenging routes like the Chinnabee Silent Trail [3, 5, 10, 11, 15]. Enjoy scenic overlooks like Bald Rock, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys [3, 5, 8, 10, 11]. For a more relaxed experience, take a drive along the Talladega Scenic Drive (Highway 281), with plenty of pull-offs for enjoying the scenery [5, 8, 17]. Cheaha Lake invites swimmers in warm weather [8, 17]. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure or a peaceful escape, Cheaha Mountain offers a memorable experience at Alabama's highest point.
Local tips
- Visit the CCC Museum in Bunker Tower to learn about the park's history and the contributions of the Civilian Conservation Corps [4, 5, 8, 17].
- Hike the Doug Ghee Accessible Trail to Bald Rock for an easily accessible, stunning overlook [5, 8, 15].
- Drive the Talladega Scenic Highway (Highway 281) for beautiful views and access to the park [5, 8, 17].
- Check the Alabama State Parks website for educational programs and guided hikes [8].
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the many scenic spots in the park [10].
A brief summary to Highest Point in Alabama
- 19644 AL-281, Delta, Alabama, 36258, US
Getting There
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Driving
From Interstate 20, take either Exit 191 or 199, located slightly east of Oxford [5]. Follow the signs for Cheaha State Park or Talladega Scenic Drive, turning onto U.S. Highway 78 [5]. Then follow the Talladega Scenic Drive (Highway 281) for approximately 20 miles to the park entrance [5, 17]. After paying the park's admission fee ($5 per adult), continue driving to the summit and Bunker Tower [5, 22]. Parking is available near the tower [3, 5].
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Walking
Once inside Cheaha State Park, several trails lead to the highest point [3, 5, 10, 11]. The shortest and most direct route is from the parking area near the Bunker Tower [3, 5, 12]. For a longer hike, take the Lake Trail from Cheaha Lake, a 3.3-mile roundtrip that connects to the park roads near Rock Garden, from where you can walk to the tower [3]. Note that the Lake Trail is considered a moderately challenging hike [3].
