Cheaha State Park, Lookout Mountain Travel Guide

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Discover Alabama's highest point at Cheaha State Park: breathtaking views, rich history, and outdoor adventures in the heart of the Talladega National Forest.

Cheaha State Park, Alabama's oldest continuously operating state park, encompasses 2,799 acres surrounding Cheaha Mountain, the state's highest point at 2,407 feet. The park, established in 1933, is known for its unique geology, CCC-built structures, and stunning views of the Talladega National Forest.

A brief summary to Cheaha State Park

19644 AL-281, Delta, Alabama, 36258, US
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Monday 7 am-9 pm
Tuesday 7 am-9 pm
Wednesday 7 am-9 pm
Thursday 7 am-9 pm
Friday 7 am-9 pm
Saturday 7 am-9 pm
Sunday 7 am-9 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Cheaha State Park.

Visit the Bunker Tower for 360-degree views of the surrounding countryside.
Hike the Bald Rock Boardwalk Trail for an accessible and scenic overlook.
Explore the CCC Museum to learn about the park's history.
Swim, fish, or paddle at Cheaha Lake.
Check the park's website for information on guided hikes and special events.

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Explore Cheaha State Park on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Cheaha State Park, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

To reach Cheaha State Park, follow AL-281, also known as the Talladega Scenic Drive. From I-20, take exit 191 and head south on AL Hwy 431, then turn right onto AL-281. The park entrance is located at 19644 AL-281, Delta, AL 36258. Be prepared to pay the park entrance fee at the gate or the Mountain Store. Parking is available throughout the park, including near the Mountain Store, campsites, and trailheads.
Public Transport

Limited public transportation options are available. The nearest city with public transport is Talladega. From Birmingham, you can take a Greyhound bus to Anniston, then a taxi to Cheaha State Park. The bus from Birmingham to Anniston takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes and costs $71-$109. A taxi from Anniston to Cheaha State Park will cost extra.

Discover more about Cheaha State Park

Cheaha State Park, cradled on the southernmost tip of the Appalachian Mountain chain, offers a unique escape into the Alabama wilderness. Established in 1933, it holds the distinction of being the state's oldest continuously operating state park. The park's 2,799 acres encompass Cheaha Mountain, the highest point in Alabama, reaching an elevation of 2,407 feet.Visitors are greeted by a landscape of granite boulders and wind-sculpted ancient trees, often shrouded in mist, creating an ethereal, 'island in the sky' atmosphere. The park is surrounded by the vast Talladega National Forest, offering 392,567 acres of natural beauty to explore.Cheaha's history is deeply intertwined with the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), who from 1933 to 1939, built many of the park's iconic structures, including Cheaha Lake, stone cabins, pavilions, and the Bunker Tower. Visitors can explore the CCC Museum to learn more about their contributions. The Walt Farr Native American Relic Museum displays local artifacts.The park boasts a variety of activities, including hiking trails for all skill levels, rock climbing, swimming, fishing, and scenic drives. Popular trails include the Bald Rock Boardwalk Trail, offering accessible panoramic views, and the Pulpit Rock Trail, known for its challenging terrain and rewarding vistas. Cheaha Lake provides opportunities for swimming, fishing, and paddling. The park also features a swimming pool for overnight guests.Cheaha State Park is conveniently located near several historic downtowns, including Oxford, Heflin, and Anniston, offering a blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions.