Cheaha State Park: Alabama's Island in the Sky

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Discover Alabama's highest point at Cheaha State Park: Breathtaking views, historic landmarks, and outdoor adventures await in the Talladega National Forest.

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Cheaha State Park

Cheaha State Park, cradled on the southernmost tip of the Appalachian Mountain chain, is Alabama's oldest continuously operating state park. Encompassing 2,799 acres, it features Cheaha Mountain, the state's highest point, offering breathtaking views, hiking trails, and a rich history shaped by the Civilian Conservation Corps.

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 Mountain Store for park information, camping supplies, snacks, and souvenirs.
Check the park's event calendar for guided hikes, interpretive programs, and other activities.
Bring comfortable shoes for hiking and exploring the park's rocky terrain.
Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the park's designated picnic areas.
Consider visiting during the fall for stunning foliage views along the Talladega Scenic Drive.

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Getting There

Driving

Cheaha State Park is accessible via Alabama Highway 281, also known as the Talladega Scenic Drive. From I-20, take exit 191 and head south on Highway 431, then turn right onto Highway 281. Follow the signs to Cheaha State Park. Alternatively, from the west, you can take Cheaha Road (County Road 42) from Munford, though this route is not recommended for large recreational vehicles. Once on Highway 281, follow the road until you reach the park entrance. There is a $5 per person entry fee for ages 12 and older, $2 for ages 4-11, and free for children under 4. Senior citizens (62+) are $2 with ID, and veterans and active military are free with ID. Ample parking is available throughout the park.
Walking

Once inside Cheaha State Park, many of the park's attractions, such as Bunker Tower, the CCC Museum, and various trailheads, are within walking distance of each other. Use the park map (available at the Mountain Store for $2) to navigate the area and locate the specific points of interest you wish to visit. Be prepared for some uphill walking, as the park is located on a mountaintop.

Discover more about Cheaha State Park

Cheaha State Park, established in 1933, invites you to experience the grandeur of Alabama's highest point. Rising 2,407 feet above sea level, Cheaha Mountain offers panoramic vistas often above the clouds, earning it the nickname "Island in the Sky". The park is surrounded by the vast Talladega National Forest, creating a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.The park's origins are deeply rooted in the work of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), who from 1933 to 1939, shaped the park's landscape. The CCC built numerous structures, many of which still stand today, including the iconic Bunker Tower, Cheaha Lake, stone cabins, pavilions, and miles of hiking trails. Explore the CCC Museum in Bunker Tower to delve into the park's fascinating history and the legacy of the CCC.Cheaha State Park offers a diverse range of activities. Hike along scenic trails like the Bald Rock Boardwalk, an accessible path leading to stunning overlooks, or challenge yourself on the Pulpit Rock Trail. The Pinhoti Trail also begins in Cheaha, which connects to the Appalachian Trail. Enjoy swimming, fishing, and paddling on Cheaha Lake, or simply relax on the beach. The park also has picnic areas with playgrounds, a gem mine, and interpretive programs.For overnight stays, choose from a variety of accommodations, including a hotel, chalets, cabins, and campsites. The historic Bald Rock Lodge, built by the CCC, provides a unique setting for group events.Cheaha State Park is more than just a scenic destination; it's a place to connect with nature, discover history, and create lasting memories.