Cheaha State Park || Hiking Mt. Cheaha
Over the next few weeks I will be posting some of my experiences and day trips from my family’s summer vacation this June of 2019. It’s taken me a bit of time to find the motivation, time, and courage to start documenting these trips. As most of my close friends and family know, this trip was the last week I got to spend with my dad who passed away earlier this week on June 26, 2019. My father was one of my strongest supporters, and constantly encouraging me to travel to new areas nearby, giving me ideas, reading my posts, and giving me feedback, always happy to share his opinions and pride in my work. It is for the very same reason that I have been able to pick back up on my writing, and continue to spread awareness of the beautiful places I continue to visit. First on my list? Cheaha State Park.
Cheaha State Park is a breathtaking state park located in the northeastern portion of Alabama within the Talladega National Forest, which ultimately connect it to the Appalachian Trail. The park contains the infamous Mt. Cheaha which sits at about 2,411 ft. Not the highest I’ve ever been, but certainly the highest point in Alabama. The park costs a small fee of $5.00 good for the entire day, and even has a restaurant at the very top where you can stop for a bite to eat (and a BEAUTIFUL overlook area). There are plenty of parking and picnic areas throughout the park, plenty of sites for camping, or cabins if that’s more your style.
It wasn’t the camping, food, or cabins that brought me to Cheaha State Park however, but my interest in Mt. Cheaha and the hiking trails here. If you’re planning to hike here as well, the way I see it, you’ve got two options: 1) You can hike the Alabama Highpoint trail OR 2) You can simply drive through the park up to the top. My suggestion is always going to be to hike. If you’ve got the time (and you’ll need to set aside about 4-6 hours for this), the trail is about 7.5 miles out and back, with great overlooks. Rated easy on All-Trails (which is also where you can find the trailhead to this). And hey, if you’re pressed for time, or simply just want to save energy for another day, the high point is also totally accessible via vehicle. Just pop Cheaha State Park into your GPS, go through the entrance gate, and drive until you spot the restaurant. Seriously one of the most incredible overlooks (especially if you hit right at dusk).
Breaking a long drive with this day trip brought some life back into me. The park is seriously incredible, and there’s just something about knowing you’re in the highest point of a state even if isn’t quite that high.
Pointers: If you choose to hike, definitely come prepared with water supply and sturdy hiking shoes. There aren’t many water sources along the way, and we all know Alabama weather can be brutal. In addition (and always) be cautious of your surroundings. Alabama is home to poisonous snakes such as copperheads and rattlesnakes, and Cheaha State Park is no exception. Nothing to be afraid of, just be careful! If you need any recommendations on equipment, feel free to check out my Products I Swear By page. Those websites have loads of goodies!
Happy Hiking! What are some of YOUR favorite state summits?
-C
29 Comments
Michelle
That photo of the view is gorgeous! What a fun place to hike. I’ve never been to Alabama but it sounds like a wonderful place to visit! No idea they had mountains
Melissa Damiani
HI, I always get rejuvenated when I’m out in nature. And, hiking is a great way to heal your soul. Mt. Cheaha and the hiking trails sound amazing. My deepest condolences. Sincerely, Melissa Damiani | Gratitude Grace Glamour
Emma Bragginton
So sorry to hear about your loss. Our thoughts are with you. What better place to remember him than up on that trail.
Looks incredible. If we ever get the chance to come over we will definitely check it out!
Thanks
British adobo
I love your content great pictures and personality. I can’t wait too see more off what you do. Do you have a YouTube Or Instagram if so follow me there and I’ll return the favor. My Instagram is nateishollywood
Jen @ Jenron Designs
I am so sorry to hear about your father sending prayers and hugs your way!
Mama Writes Reviews
How pretty! I love a good summit hike! And I’m so sorry about your dad! You’ll be in my prayers.
Heena
I have never been to Alabama. I love hiking with my family and we do lot of hiking in state of Washington. If I get chance to visit Alabama, I will surely visit Cheaha State Park. Sorry for your loss. Thanks for sharing.
Heena.
Fiorella
What a great place to go hiking. The views from there are just stunning. So sad about your dad. Big hugs.
Sarah
I’m so sorry to hear about your father. Looks like a lovely place and I hope it gave you the chance to create some wonderful memories with your family.
Sarah
So glad you got the chance for one final adventure with your dad. Those memories are so special. My mother died when I was a kid, I still treasure all the memories of our many hiking adventures together.
Viano Dee
Cheaha seems like a place I’d visit. So sorry about your loss
Joana Rodrigues
Wow I absolutely love the photographs you featured in this post. I wish I had time to fulfill my life with such beautiful experiences in these wonderful places
Autumn Murray
I love hiking and would love to hike Mt. Cheaha. Looks like you had great weather for your adventure!
Luci Cook
That is so pretty and really beautiful photography. I live in Louisiana so we don’t really have that many high pikes, the tallest is a hill.
Kate Loves Travel
I love hiking and this looks like a fantastic place to do it… such beautiful views! And I’m very sorry for your loss.
Anna - ExploreBeautyXO
Looks like a fun summer trip! What a beautiful place to hike!
Paula Stewart
So sorry to hear about your father. It’s great that you have found strength from his support in your writing and have been able to continue it during such a hard time. I agree a great pair of footwear is important. I made the mistake once and wore a new pair without breaking them in or testing them out. Oh, what sore feet I had!
Chad
I looove hiking!!! And i mostly love going to places i’ve never been. I would love to hike there, amazing place.
Tiffany
Your pictures and descriptions are absolutely beautiful. So sorry for your loss. It sounds like you have good memories to carry with you.
Stephanie
I would love to do the hike, but I don’t think my young boys would make it that far. We tend to drive up these type of things, then hike a bit down the trail and back. That way we see the views but still don’t wear the kids out. We used to camp in state parks all over Florida and loved it. I’m sorry to hear about your dad, but I’m glad you were able to spend one last vacation with him.
Angela Tolsma
I would love to do this hike one day! My husband and I just took a road trip and that was something we did not do enough of and want to correct for future road trips!
Karen Monica
The view looks simply amazing and the weather look like it has been nice to you. My cousin love to hike and I am sure she would love a hiking trip like this.
Tracy @ Cleland Clan
I’m sorry to hear about your dad, but I’m glad that you were able to spend that time with him. Cheaha State Park sounds like a great place to visit. I like the idea of driving to the summit if you’re short on time–scenic overlooks are always beautiful.
Patricia Chamberlain
This looks like a beautiful park to hike in! I love spending time in nature alone, but rarely get to do so.
Krizzia Scollon
This is such a pretty place to hike! I wish I can go there one day
Christa
I’m so very sorry about your loss. Having this time together in such a beautiful place will be something you can cherish.
Tonya Morris
Here in Virginia, we have some awesome hiking options! This one looks so peaceful!
David Elliott
I have heard of some good forest in Alabama but I had never seen any pictures until now. I’ve always planned on taking a road trip down south. I will have to include this in my road trip there.
Tren
Sorry for your loss. May the memories last forever and you continue to travel, as he wanted of you 💛