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Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail: Lake Martin's Hiking Jewel

Explore scenic trails with panoramic lake views at Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail, a natural escape on Lake Martin in Dadeville, Alabama.

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The Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail, located on the southern end of Lake Martin near Dadeville, Alabama, offers a diverse network of hiking trails with scenic views and varying levels of difficulty. Maintained by the Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail Association (CRATA), the trails provide opportunities for leisurely lakeside strolls and challenging climbs through rugged terrain.

A brief summary to Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail

  • 2234 Overlook Dr, Dadeville, Alabama, 36853, US
  • Monday 6:30 am-7:30 pm
  • Tuesday 6:30 am-7:30 pm
  • Wednesday 6:30 am-7:30 pm
  • Thursday 6:30 am-7:30 pm
  • Friday 6:30 am-7:30 pm
  • Saturday 6:30 am-7:30 pm
  • Sunday 6:30 am-7:30 pm

Local tips

  • Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months, as the trails can be strenuous.
  • Wear appropriate footwear for hiking, as some trails have rocky and steep sections.
  • Be aware of the weather conditions before you go, as the trails can be slippery when wet.
  • Download the “what3words” app to help rescuers find you if you get lost.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Dadeville, head south on AL-49 S/AL-50 E. Continue to follow AL-50 E for approximately 6 miles. Turn left onto Overlook Dr, marked by a scenic overlook sign. Follow Overlook Dr for 3.3 miles to the trailhead parking lot on the right. Parking is free at the Overlook Park trailhead.

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Discover more about Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail

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.

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