Best Hikes in Talladega National Forest (AL)

Talladega National Forest Overview

Talladega National Forest is located in eastern Alabama. Only 50 or so miles southeast of Birmingham, it sits at the southern edge of the Appalachian Mountains. The forest covers nearly 400,000 acres and is administered by three districts – Talladega, Shoal Creek, and Oakmulgee. Trees, wild flowers, and an abundance of wildlife make biking and hiking in Talladega National Forest a treat for any visitor.

Pinhoti Trail is a big draw for long-distance hikers and backpackers. The trail is 339 miles long and serves as the southeast connector to the Appalachian Trail. Talladega National Forest also houses Cheaha Wilderness and the highest point in the state of Alabama: Cheaha Mountain. If you’re up for it, summiting Cheaha Mountain is an enjoyable experience and will provide some of the best views in the state.

Talladega has some of the best hiking within short driving distance of Birmingham and Atlanta, GA. The best hikes in Talladega National Forest are listed below. Enjoy getting outside and experiencing this beautiful, peaceful Alabama wilderness!

State	Alabama
Nearest Metro Area	Birmingham, AL
Area Size	392,567 acres
Established	July 17, 1936
Hiking Trails	140 miles

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Trailhead Traveler’s Recommended Best Hikes in Talladega National Forest

Cave Creek Trail – 3.9 miles one-way

This trail offers a diverse landscape of forests, creeks, and rock formations, providing hikers with a picturesque experience. As you navigate the trail, you can expect to encounter beautiful waterfalls, lush vegetation, and the soothing sounds of Cave Creek, creating a serene and tranquil atmosphere for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy.

Chinnabee Silent Trail – 6.3 miles one-way

The Chinnabee Silent Trail is the perfect hike that showcases the beauty of the Talladega National Forest. The 6 mile moderate to difficult trail was constructed in 1977 by Boy Scout Troop 29 from the Alabama Institute for the Deaf and Blind in Talladega. Beginning at Lake Chinnabee, the trail winds beside Cheaha Creek and ends 6 miles at Caney Head atop Talladega Mountain. It is popular because of the spectacular views of flowing streams, rock outcroppings, and waterfalls.

Mt. Cheaha Summit Route*** – 5.9 miles out and back

This trail offers a challenging yet rewarding experience for hikers seeking breathtaking views. As you ascend towards the summit of Mt. Cheaha, the highest point in Alabama, you’ll encounter diverse terrain, including rocky sections, forested areas, and scenic overlooks. At the summit, hikers are treated to panoramic vistas of the surrounding forest and mountains, making it a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Pinhoti Trail – section #5, Porter’s Gap to Adam’s Gap – 15.5 miles one-way

The Pinhoti winds through the Talladega National Forest in eastern Alabama. It runs from Piedmont, to a point south of Talladega. The Pinhoti traverses through both the Cheaha Wilderness and Dugger Mountain Wilderness Areas. There is a connector trail from Cheaha State Park to the Pinhoti. The Pinhoti meanders through mountains and valleys, which are rich in history and legend. The trail winds through rugged pine and hardwood forests, runs along ridgetops, and passes through shady hollows and mountain streams.

Featured Image: “Devil’s Den”, Talladega National Forest, Photo by Rick from Alabama