Cheaha State Park Observation Tower: Alabama's Crowning Jewel

4.8 (185)

Reach new heights at Cheaha State Park's Observation Tower, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into Alabama's rich history and natural beauty.

Home
Alabama
Cheaha State Park
Cheaha State Park Observation Tower

Ascend to the highest point in Alabama at Cheaha State Park's Observation Tower, a historic stone structure built by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Offering panoramic views of the surrounding Talladega National Forest, the tower provides a unique vantage point to appreciate the natural beauty of the region and learn about its rich history.

A brief summary to Cheaha State Park Observation Tower

Delta, Alabama, 36258, US

Monday 8 am-6 pm
Tuesday 8 am-6 pm
Wednesday 8 am-6 pm
Thursday 8 am-6 pm
Friday 8 am-6 pm
Saturday 8 am-6 pm
Sunday 8 am-6 pm

Local tips

Bring a camera to capture the stunning panoramic views from the top of the Observation Tower.
Wear comfortable shoes for climbing the tower's interior staircase and exploring the park's hiking trails.
Visit during the fall for vibrant foliage views or in the spring to see wildflowers in bloom.
Check the park's website for information on museum hours and special events.
Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the scenic beauty of Cheaha State Park.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Highest Point in Alabama

Cheaha Mountain: Alabama's Rooftop

Cheaha Mountain

Cheaha Mountain: Alabama's Rooftop

Cheaha State Park

Cheaha State Park: Alabama's Island in the Sky

Getting There

Driving

To reach the Cheaha State Park Observation Tower, navigate to Cheaha State Park, located at 19644 AL-281, Delta, AL 36258. From major cities in Alabama, take your preferred route to reach AL-281 and follow the signs for Cheaha State Park. Once inside the park, follow the main road, AL-281, to the highest point. The observation tower will be clearly visible. Park in the designated lot near the tower. Park admission is $5 for adults (ages 12 and older), $2 for children (ages 4-11), and $2 for seniors (age 62 and older with ID). Active military and veterans receive free admission with ID. Payment can be made with cash or credit card at the park gate or at the Mountain Store.
Walking

If you're already within Cheaha State Park, several trails lead to the vicinity of the Observation Tower. From the Bald Rock parking area, you can take the paved road a short distance to the tower. Alternatively, from the Cheaha Lake area, you can hike the moderately challenging Lake Trail, which connects to the park road near the tower. Follow the signs within the park to reach the Observation Tower. Remember that park admission fees apply ($5 for adults, $2 for children and seniors).

Discover more about Cheaha State Park Observation Tower

The Cheaha State Park Observation Tower, also known as Bunker Tower, stands proudly as the crowning jewel of Alabama, offering visitors an unparalleled experience at the state's highest point. Rising to 2,407 feet above sea level, this historic stone structure provides breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding Talladega National Forest and the Appalachian foothills.Built in 1934 by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) during the Great Depression, the tower is a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the era. Constructed from locally sourced Cheaha quartzite, the tower's rustic architectural style evokes a sense of timelessness, blending seamlessly with the natural landscape. Originally, the tower served as both a fire observation post and a public lookout, with park offices and a gift shop located in the adjacent wings.Visitors can ascend the tower via an interior staircase, winding their way to the observation room at the top. From this vantage point, the panoramic views stretch for miles in every direction, showcasing the diverse ecosystems and rolling hills of the Talladega National Forest. The tower also houses park museums.Cheaha State Park, established in 1933, is Alabama's oldest state park and encompasses 2,799 acres of natural beauty. The park offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, camping, swimming, and fishing. Several trails, such as the Bald Rock Trail and Pulpit Rock Trail, provide stunning overlooks and opportunities to explore the park's unique geological formations.