Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail, Lake Martin Travel Guide

The Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail is a meticulously crafted network of interconnected hiking trails on the southern end of Lake Martin, near Dadeville. The trails are the work of the Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail Association (CRATA), a non-profit organization founded in 2004. CRATA's mission is to create and maintain quality hiking trails in the Lake Martin and Tallapoosa River areas. The trails are located on land owned by Alabama Power Co., which has been set aside as a "natural, undeveloped" area.The trails offer a variety of loop options, ranging from one to seven miles, allowing hikers to tailor their experience. One of the most popular starting points is Overlook Park, where the Loop Trail begins. From there, hikers can journey through diverse landscapes, encountering unique rock formations, lush forests, and views of Lake Martin. The Deadening Alpine Trail is a more challenging 3.6-mile loop with rewarding climbs and vistas. This trail winds along the cliffs of the Tallapoosa River, past the Needles Eye and Jasmine Bluff, offering panoramic views of the lake and its surroundings. In season, hikers can enjoy mountain laurel and rhododendron.The trails also offer a glimpse into the area's history, following the old railroad bed used in the construction of Martin Dam in the early 1920s. Hikers can explore remnants of the railroad, including small piles of coal once used to power steam locomotives. CRATA maintains over 26 miles of trails in the area. The trails are open exclusively to foot traffic. CRATA recommends using the “what3words” app for safety.In May 2025, a new tower was installed on the Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail near Martin Dam. The tower offers views of Chimney and Acapulco Rocks, the Kowaliga Bay area, and Stillwaters. As of July 2025, the tower is not yet open to the public, as the parking lot, safety rails, and displays are still under construction.