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.
Ascend to Cheaha Mountain, the highest point in Alabama, nestled within Cheaha State Park and Talladega National Forest. Reach the summit and Bunker Tower, a historic stone structure built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape [5, 8].
A brief summary to Highest Point in Alabama
- 19644 AL-281, Delta, Alabama, 36258, US
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].
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].
Discover more about Highest Point in Alabama
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