Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail: Lake Martin's Hiking Haven

Nestled on the southern end of Lake Martin, near Dadeville, Alabama, the Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail provides a diverse network of interconnected hiking paths. The trails are the work of the Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail Association (CRATA), a non-profit organization dedicated to creating and maintaining quality hiking trails in the Lake Martin and Tallapoosa River areas.The trail system features a variety of loop options, ranging from 1 to 7 miles, allowing hikers to customize their experience. The trails are well-marked with white rectangular blazes. Overlook Park serves as a popular starting point, offering access to the Loop Trail and other routes. From there, hikers can explore unique rock formations, lush forests, and views of Lake Martin. The Deadening Alpine Trail, a more challenging 3.6-mile loop, takes hikers along the cliffs of the Tallapoosa River, past the Needles Eye and Jasmine Bluff. CRATA maintains over 26 miles of trails in the area.The trails follow the old railroad bed used in the construction of Martin Dam in the early 1920s. The lands that host the trails are rich in historical sites and events. The trails are open exclusively to foot traffic.