Trails of The Talladega National Forest:
Odum Scout Trail (moderate)
The trailhead for this is located off FR 650 near Pyriton, near
the southern edge of the Cheaha Wilderness. After crossing the creek near the trailhead
sign, bear right. You will ascend the ridge via hand rails and concrete stairs, with High
Falls on your right. The stairs and hand rails were built by the Boy Scout organization
when they built the 10 mile trail across Talladega Mountain. After passing High Falls, the
trail makes a long gradual ascent up Cedar Mountain. At approximately 3.3 miles, reach the
crest of the ridge with views of Shinbone Ridge to the east and the long ridge of
Talladega Mountain on the west. Reach a junction with the Nubbin Creek Trail at
approximately 3.7 miles.
Nubbin Creek Trail (moderate)
Due to its location, this trail doesn't receive as much traffic
as the nearby trails; but in conjunction with one of the other trails nearby, it would
make for a very nice hike. The trailhead is located on Nubbin Creek road approximately 2
miles after turning off County Road 31 south of Mannings Chapel. Country Road 31 can be
reached by turning off Alabama Highway 49 just south of its junction with Alabama 281 near
Cheaha State Park.
The trail starts in an overgrown area just off the road. It soon
ascends along the south bank of Mill Shoal Creek. After crossing a small creek, bear left
and back to the right before entering the Cheaha Wilderness. Ascend moderately and reach a
series of cascading waterfalls on Mill Shoal Creek at approximately 1 mile. The trail
follows the ridge before ascending again to cross a small creek. Continue northeast along
the ridge, ascending gradually. The trail then swings around the ridge and soon heads in a
southwest direction.
At approximately 3 miles, the trail swings left (south). The Cave
Creek Trail will intersect the Nubbin Creek Trail at this point (The Cave Creek Trail will
ascend to your right back along the ridge). This area was not marked when I hiked the two
trails. Hikers can hike the Cave Creek Trail to the parking area on Al. Highway 281 near
the entrance to Cheaha State Park.
At approximately 3.5 miles, the trail crosses Mill Shoal Creek
near its beginning at Little Caney Head. The trail will continue to ascend, reaching
Parker High Point, elevation 2,232! This area is dominated by large boulders and rock
formations. At 4 miles, reach the junction with the Odum Scout Trail. To the right 1 mile
is Caney Head Shelter and the junction with the Pinhoti and Chinnabee Silent Trails. To
the left 3.7 miles is the southern terminus of the Odum Scout Trail and High Falls.
Cave Creek Trail (easy)
This new trail originates within Cheaha State Park and intersects
the Nubbin Creek Trail within the Cheaha Wilderness area. It basically parallels the
Pinhoti Trail, but provides views of the Talladega Forest east of Talladega Mountain. I
have included the trail within the Cheaha Wilderness, since the major part of the trail
lies within the Wilderness area.
Parking is available where the Talladega Scenic Drive curves
sharply to the right just below Cheaha State Park. A short path at the end of the parking
area leads to the trailhead sign. Another short trail leads to the Pinhoti trail.
The Cave Creek Trail heads south along Talladega Mountain. The
trail crosses numerous small watersheds as it winds its way through a mixed hardwood and
pine forest. Reach a sign at the Cheaha Wilderness boundary at approximately 1.3 mile.
Continue south until the trail turns sharply back to the right at approximately 2 miles. A
large rock outcrop on your left provides a nice place to rest and affords very good views
of the surrounding area.
The trail will ascend approximately 75 yards and cross an old
trail. Continue straight (To the right and approximately 100 yards uphill is a very small
and secluded campsite). The trail gradually descends and reaches Cave Creek at
approximately 2.3 miles. Cross the creek by way of large rocks and bear left as the trail
ascends along the ridge. After a brief descent, the trail will gradually ascend. Reach a
sign at approximately 3.2 miles. A short 150 yard connector trail leads right to intersect
the Pinhoti Trail (A 3.5 mile hike north on the Pinhoti Trail will complete a loop back to
Cheaha State Park). Continue south on the Cave Creek Trail, gradually descending. At 4
miles, intersect the Nubbin Creek trailhead. Continuing straight, the Nubbin Creek Trail
continues south along the ridge before intersecting the Odum Scout Trail.
Placing alternate transportation at either the Nubbin Creek
trailhead or the Odum Scout trailhead will allow for a "one-way" hike rather
than backtracking on the Cave Creek Trail. Parking at the Turnipseed Hunter Camp on the
Chinnabee Silent Trail offers yet another optional hike. Hiking the Cave Creek and Nubbin
Creek Trails allow the hiker a more secluded walk, as the Pinhoti Trail is more heavily
traveled.
The Pinhoti Trail
This is Alabama's longest trail, stretching over 80 miles through
the Talladega National Forest in east central Alabama. It was designated as a National
Recreation Trail in 1977 and is still being extended, to eventually reach from near
Sylacauga to Piedmont and the Georgia state line. The trail "travels" through a
variety of terrain, through hardwood forests, along small streams, through hollows, below
rock bluffs and along mountain ridges. The northern sections of the trail include terrain
with gentle grades with few steep grades that cover short distances. The southern area
around Horseblock Mountain and Cheaha State Park is more rugged, with steep terrain
covering longer distances.
This trail review has been divided into 10 sections due to its length:
Section 1 (8.5 miles) CR 55 to FR 500 (Coleman Lake)
This is the northernmost section of the trail that has been
completed and marked. However, there are no trailhead signs with distances to locations.
The Alabama Trails Association, National Forest Service and other groups have obtained
land north of CR 55 and are in the process of expanding the Pinhoti Trail, hopefully to
the Georgia state line.
From the trail sign on CR 55, walk south through thick overgrowth
before crossing an old forest road at approximately .5 mile. Continue walking south for a
short distance before reaching Choccolocco Lake. The trail will head southwest along the
ridge as it parallels the lake. Cross the earthen dam at approximately 1 mile. The trail
will continue southeast along the ridge, reaching the south end of the lake at
approximately 1.5 miles.
The trail will continue along this ridge for the next 1.5 miles,
gradually swinging to the south. At approximately 2.9 miles, the trail will turn east and
cross a saddle. The next .6 mile will wind along a narrow trail around the ridge. At
approximately 3.5 miles, the trail will descend moderately to steep, as it makes its way
between two ridges. The trail will then bear right and descend, with a creek on your left.
At 4 miles, the trail will turn southeast and parallel Choccolocco Creek on your left. At
4.5 miles, the trail will cross the creek and pick up again on the opposite side.
This crossing can be confusing, since there are no markers to
rely on. The hiker will have to wade the stream and head southeast to pick up the trail
parallel to the stream.
Cross a small creek at approximately 4.8 miles. The trail will
continue on an old roadbed and pass through thick overgrowth. The trail picks up
Choccolocco Creek again at approximately 5.5 miles and continues south, parallel to the
creek. Cross Choccolocco Creek and a smaller creek before heading southeast with the creek
on your left. At 6 miles, cross Choccolocco Creek again. The trail will parallel the creek
before crossing a third time at approximately 6.2 miles. After crossing another small
creek, the trail makes its way through an area dominated by many ferns and hardwood trees.
Hike along a ridge with a small creek on your left. Gradually ascend and continue hiking
southeast before reaching FR 540 at approximately 7 miles.
The trail will make its way along a ridge, heading east and then
south. Cross a horse trail at approximately 7.5 miles and bear left. Cross a firebreak at
approximately 7.8 miles and another firebreak at 8.2 miles. Reach FR 500 50 yards east of
the Coleman Lake parking area.
The trail sign of the Pinhoti Trail on CR 55 can be reached by
driving north on Al. Highway 9 west of Heflin for 12 miles from its junction with US
Highway 78. Turn right at the blinking traffic light on to CR 262. Drive 4.5 miles and
park on the side of the road. CR 55 merges with CR 262 shortly after you turn off of Hwy.
9.
The Coleman Lake parking area and trailhead can be reached by
turning north onto FR 500 just west of Heflin, where the sign of the Talladega Forest Work
Center and Talladega Scenic Drive is located. Continue north on FR 500 for 8 miles to Pine
Glen Campground and another 5 miles to the Coleman Lake parking area. FR 500 also
intersects CR 55 north of Coleman Lake and east of the trailhead on CR 55. A Talladega
National Forest map will help to locate these roads.
Section 2 (6.8 miles) FR 500 (Coleman Lake) to FR 500 (Pine Glen Campground)
This section of the Pinhoti is popular because it has a shelter
along the trail as well as developed campgrounds at both ends. Sweetwater Lake is also a
good camping site between Laurel Shelter and Pine Glen Campground.
The northern trailhead for this section is actually located on FR
500 west of the Coleman Lake Campground and Lake. From the small parking area, the trail
leads south and passes west of Coleman Lake at approximately 1 mile. Continue walking
south and cross FR 553D. Reach Shoal Creek Church at approximately 1.6 miles. This
hand-hewn log church was built between 1885 and 1890 and is listed in the National
Register of Historic Places. A small cemetery with graves of early settlers lies close by.
From the church, the trail swings westward and crosses FR 553 at
approximately 2 miles. The trail soon turns southward and reaches Laurel Shelter at 3.2
miles. This is one of only two trail shelters on the northern half of the Pinhoti. A third
shelter is located south of Cheaha State Park. The National Forest Service plans on
constructing more trail shelters whenever funds permit.
From the shelter, the trail continues southward and passes by the
western side of Sweetwater Lake, an 86 acre man-made reservoir, at approximately 4.3
miles. A good campsite area is located on the southern part of the lake. The trail
continues past the earthen dam on the south end of the lake and heads westward, crossing a
field. After crossing the field, the trail will parallel Shoal Creek for approximately 2
miles as it flows southward. Reach FR 500 and Pine Glen Campground area at approximately
6.8 miles (the sign at Coleman Lake parking area lists this section as 8 miles distance
while the sign at Pine Glen Campground lists the distance as 6 miles. The actual distance
is close to the trail map's 6.8 miles).
Coleman Lake trailhead and Pine Glen Campground can be reached by
driving north on FR 500 located west on Heflin. Turn at the sign for the Talladega
National Forest work center and Talladega Scenic Drive.
Section 3 (13 miles) FR 500 (Pine Glen Campground) to US Hwy 78
This section of the Pinhoti Trail runs from Pine Glen Campground
on FR 500 to the Talladega National Forest work center near US Hwy 78 west of Heflin.
The trail starts just south of the campground entrance and heads
southwest, with the campground on your right. You will soon cross a forest road and a
small creek. Ascend at approximately 1 mile, the trail will swing northwest and then
southeast as it follows the ridge. Good views of Shoal Creek can be seen on your right.
Descend southwest with a forest road on your left and Shoal Creek on your right. Reach a
forest road at approximately 1.3 miles. Walk to your right 50 yards on the road. The trail
will continue on your left, heading east, then south. The trail soon bears southeast along
a ridge, with Highrock Lake on your right. You will soon bear left (east), cross a small
creek and ascend. Cross FR 531 at approximately 1.6 miles. Cross a small creek and ascend.
Continue south along a side of a ridge. Descend and reach a stream at approximately 2.3
miles.
Cross the stream and pick up the trail again to the right of the
small rock dam, heading west. The trail will swing south along the side of a ridge with
the stream on your right. Cross a small creek and bear west through a "low lying
area" with the stream still on your right. After the trail becomes wider, you will be
heading south. Cross a small creek and ascend at approximately 3 miles. You will soon pass
a large area on your right (downhill) suitable for camping. Continue south along the west
side of a ridge. Cross an old forest road above the creek and descend. The trail continues
west along the creek before crossing at approximately 3.5 miles (a suitable campsite).
Continue south, as the trail follows the ridge, and cross a forest road that will parallel
the trail for a short distance. Continue south along the eastside of the ridge and cross
the forest road again at approximately 4.2 miles. The trail continues south then west,
then south again before descending on an old forest road. Continue descending along the
hillside and reach two creeks that merge at 5 miles.
Walk to your right (west) and cross the creek. The Lower Shoal
Shelter will be on your left, next to the stream. The trail continues southward, gradually
ascending. Make several switchbacks before crossing an old forest road at approximately
5.3 miles. Follow the ridgeline, crossing FR 531 at 6 miles. The trail will continue to
follow a ridge for the next 2 miles, as it heads southward. Reach an area at approximately
8.3 miles with good views to the west. The trail soon makes two switchbacks, swings around
the ridge and descends.
Cross FR 523 at 9 miles. Ascend and head southeast. Nice views to
the southwest can soon be seen before the trail descends and swings around another ridge.
Descend along the ridge. At 10 miles, the trail will swing around another ridge with good
views to the west. Pass through a "cut" area of forest as the trail makes
several switchbacks. Ascend along the ridge and reach a rocky outcrop area with a small
campsite nearby at approximately 11 miles. The trail will make two switchbacks as it
continues to follow the ridgeline. Ascend and swing around the ridge at approximately 11.4
miles. Good views of Choccolocco Mountain to the west can be seen before reaching another
rocky outcrop area. The trail then makes several switchbacks before heading west along the
ridge at approximately 11.8 miles.
Descend, cross a watershed and ascend. FR 500 will soon be on
your left. At 12.2 miles, the trail heads west and follows the ridge before descending.
Cross FR 500 and continue south. Pass through a small pine growth area, descend and cross
a small creek. Reach the trailhead sign at 13 miles. FR 500 on your right leads 8 miles to
the Pine Glen Campground. The Pinhoti Trail continues southward after crossing the
railroad tracks and walking across the bridge over US Hwy 78.
There is available parking at the Pine Glen Campground area and
near the Talladega National Forest work center just off US Hwy 78.
Section 4 (4.4 miles) US Hwy 78 to Al. Hwy 281
This section, like section 5, is short enough for a day hike and
may be included in a weekend backpacking trip. The trail is easy to walk and can be hiked
in 2.5 to 3 hours. The trail picks up at the south end of the bridge over US Hwy 78 at the
northern terminus of the Talladega Scenic Drive. From the bridge, the trail heads west
along the side of a hill with US Hwy 78 on your right. Pass under power lines and cross a
forest road. The trail will parallel the highway for a short distance at approximately .4
mile. Descend along the forest ridge and cross an old forest road. The trail will make
several switchbacks as it descends. Cross a creek and continue west. Cross another forest
road and ascend south from the ridge at approximately .9 mile. The trail will turn west
along a ridge before descending and becoming narrow. Reach a clearing with good views to
the west. The trail will continue across the clearing and descend. Reach another ridge at
approximately 1.4 miles.
The trail will descend steeply via switchbacks. Cross over a
ridge and descend southeast along the ridge. Bear right (west), cross a creek with unique
rock formations and ascend along the ridge at approximately 2 miles. Continue south along
the ridge before bearing to your right (west) around the ridge. The trail will head
southeast and reach Al. Hwy 281 at approximately 2.4 miles. Cross the highway and descend.
Walk southwest before turning east around the ridge. The trail turns south before crossing
a forest road at 3 miles. The trail winds its way east, then south. Cross a fire break and
descend at approximately 3.4 miles.
Cross a creek and ascend. Switchbacks to the northwest and south
around the ridge precede another descent. Cross another creek and ascend. The trail then
swings around a ridge and reaches a creek on your right with a good camp site, at 4 miles,
cross an "open area". The trail then turns west and north before swinging around
to the southwest. Reach the north end of the bridge over I-20 at 4.4 miles.
Al. Hwy 281 leads north to its terminus with US Hwy 78 and south
to Cheaha State Park. Section 5 of the Pinhoti Trail continues south of the bridge.
Section 5 (4.2 miles) Al. Hwy 281 to US Hwy 431
This section of the trail can be walked by itself or with section
4 to make an 8.6 mile hike. The terrain is easy to moderate and can be walked in 4.5 to 5
hours.
From the southern end of the bridge over I-20, the trail will
head south. Cross over a ridge and descend via switchbacks. At .2 mile, cross a small
creek and ascend. Bear right (west) before crossing a logging road. At .6 mile, cross a
forest road near its junction with a gravel road. Descend southwest before crossing a
watershed. The trail then heads north and swings around the ridge heading southwest again.
Bear left and cross an old forest road. Descend and cross a creek at 1.2 miles.
Ascend and cross over the ridge via switchbacks. Continue west
and descend. Hike north before crossing a creek via a footbridge at 1.6 miles (a suitable
campsite). Continue west along a ridge and cross an old forest road. The trail will
continue to head west, then south. Reach FR 518 at 2.2 miles. Pick up the trail again 30'
to your right. After crossing the road, the trail will make a semi-circle around the
ridge. Descend from the ridge at approximately 2.7 miles. Reach a small creek at
approximately 3.2 miles. Hike along the creek, then west through a hollow and south along
a ridge for a short distance. Descend southwest from the ridge at approximately 3.8 miles.
Reach a trailhead sign and US Hwy 431 at 4.2 miles. The trail
will continue across the highway and 50 yards north. The gravel road leads to the next
trailhead.
Al. Hwy 281 is also known as the Talladega Scenic Drive. It
connects US Hwy 78 just west of Heflin with Cheaha State park and runs along the crest of
Talladega Mountain. The drive is particularly beautiful in the fall with a number of
overlooks providing panoramic views of the Talladega National Forest area.
Section 6 (5.3 miles) US Hwy 431 to CR 24
The length of this section, like several others, enables one to
day hike or backpack when hiked along with the next one or two sections of the trail.
The trail continues approximately 50 yards north on Hwy 431 where
the gravel road on the west intersects the highway. Walk up the road for 250 yards before
reaching a parking area and trailhead sign.
The trail heads southwest, reaching a "thick brush"
area at .2 mile. Descend and cross a creek at .4 mile. The trail will head south with the
creek on your right. The trail will then turn east before crossing a creek and turning
back to the south. Cross a smaller creek at .7 mile, where it merges with a larger creek.
Cross the larger creek four times before reaching a suitable campsite at .9 mile. The
trail will ascend and become narrow along the ridge. Continue south and cross a forest
road at approximately 1.2 miles. At 1.6 miles, the trail will descend southwest.
When the trail turns to the west, you will come to another
suitable camping area. Cross several watersheds at approximately 2.2 miles as the trail
heads south. Descend and hike west, then south before crossing two small creeks. The trail
will then head southwest and wind around a ridge. Cross a creek four times before
ascending; continue south, cross the creek and ascend before making a switchback to your
right. You will hear a small waterfall on your right as the trail winds north around the
ridge at approximately 2.8 miles.
The trail will turn to the west before descending on your right.
Cross a creek at approximately 3.2 miles and hike south along the creek. Cross the creek
again and ascend. Continue south along the creek before crossing a smaller creek. Hike
northwest along the hill and cross a forest road at 3.7 miles. The trail will turn west,
cross another forest road and head north. After a short distance, the trail will turn west
and intersect a forest road on top of the ridge at approximately 4 miles. Walk along this
road for 60 yards.
The trail will descend on your left (south) down a ridge to a
creek. Cross the creek twice by way of rocks and a short distance further, on old log.
Continue southwest with the creek on your left. Morgan Lake will soon be on your left.
Cross an old forest road at approximately 4.6 miles. Descend southwest and bear right near
the bottom of the ridge (a well worn path will wind around the base of the ridge to Morgan
Lake). The Pinhoti will descend on your right before crossing a small creek. After
crossing the creek, the trail swings south for 75 yards before intersecting CR 24 at 5.2
miles. The trial will continue across the road.
Section 7 (12.2 miles) CR 24 to Cheaha State Park
From CR 24, the trail ascends to the nearby ridge where you bear
to your left along the ridge. At approximately .4 mile, descend and cross an old trail.
Here you will bear south along the ridge, descend and cross a small creek. The trail will
bear left and ascend to the next ridge (there are small camping sites along the creek).
Reach the crest of the ridge at approximately .8 mile. Continue southwest (the old trail
will continue northeast) for 75 yards, then bear left (south).
At approximately 1 mile, the trail will head southeast between
two small ridges. Ascend along the ridge, heading southwest, with a small creek below on
your left. At 1.4 miles, ascend southeast and walk along the ridge. The trail will bear
right at 1.5 miles and ascend northwest (an old trail descends between the ridges). Look
for the trail markings on the trees. Pass through a saddle and ascend to the ridge.
Descend, cross another saddle and ascend again. Continue along the ridge.
At approximately 2 miles, descend. The trail will split in two
directions. Bear left (southwest). Look for two marked trees (the old trail to the right
will lead north). You will soon cross an unnamed creek and continue parallel to the creek.
This area is a good camp site with plenty of water available. At approximately 3 miles,
cross another small creek, which flows into the larger creek.
The trail will turn left where a 3rd small creek merges with the
larger creek and head in a southward direction. You will cross this small creek 3 times as
you gradually ascend between two ridges. There is a small camp site where you cross the
creek for the 3rd time. Here the trail will turn south while the creek continues east.
Ascend by way of a switchback to your right, as the trail now heads west again. Cross an
old road on the ridge. A switchback to your right leads north, as you descend and then
southwest by way of a second switchback between two ridges.
Reach Hillabee Creek at approximately 4 miles. This is a good
site for camping, with plenty of water. Cross the large creek by way of rocks. You will
soon cross under power lines through heavy brush and ascend by way of switchback on an old
forest road. The trail will make an immediate switchback to your left (south) off the road
(look for marked trees). Ascend and bear right (west) before descending. Ascend
(southwest) again to a saddle. Bear right (west) and ascend. Continue along the ridge.
Reach a "cut area" at approximately 4.5 miles with thick growth. Continue west
and pass by the remains of an old van. Descend to a small creek at approximately 4.8
miles. Bear right (north) along the base of the ridge and cross a creek with good camp
sites at 5 miles.
The trail will follow the edge of the ridge (trail is very
narrow), then between two ridges with a small creek on your right. Cross a "flat
lowland area" at approximately 5.4 miles, then continue along the ridge on tour left,
heading south. Cross a watershed and bear left along the base of the ridge with a creek on
your right. Cross the creek and bear left (southwest). Ascend along the ridge. The trail
will swing around the ridge (northwest to south), then ascend at approximately 6 miles.
Continue southwest between two ridges and ascend, gradually
heading south. Reach an old grass covered roadbed and continue south. Cross FR 589 at 7
miles. A sign lists the distances back to CR 24 and Cheaha State Park.
The trail will make a switchback to your right, heading
northwest. A series of switchbacks will ascend and wander around the ridges as the trail
makes its way up Blue Mountain. At 8 miles, the trail ascends steeply for a short
distance, then gradually before reaching the top of the ridge. Continue south along the
ridge (the trail was not well marked when I hiked this area due to a number of downed tees
from storm damage). Pass by rock formations on the ridge top at approximately 9 miles.
Ascend gradually along the ridge. Reach a rocky crest with large rock formations at 9.5
miles. At approximately 10 miles, reach a signpost listing Blue Mountain as 1 mile (the
Blue Mountain Trail ascends for a .5 mile to Bald Rock overlook in Cheaha State Park).
Continue south, descending. Reach a rocky area, where again the
trail was not well marked as other sections. Make a switch back to your left at a
"marked" tree, then descend to your right (look for markings on rocks as well as
trees). The trail will bear right heading west before crossing a watershed and ascending
to the south and east. Cross another rocky area before ascending south (a small camp site
will be on the left of the trail) and passing through an overgrown area. At approximately
11 miles, cross another rocky area and ascend steeply before the trail levels out. Good
views to the north and east can be had before the trail descends (east, then southwest).
Ascend southwest, then west as the trail makes its way around the ridge. Cross a watershed
and rocky area and ascend. Hike southwest along the side of the ridge, cross a watershed
and bear left (south). Ascend gradually along the ridge at approximate 12 miles. Reach the
paved Al. highway 281 at 12.2 miles. This road leads .2 mile to Cheaha State Park entrance
and .3 mile left to the parking area for the Cave Creek Trail and Odum Scout Trailheads.
Section 8 (12 Miles) Cheaha State Park to Adams Gap
This section of the Pinhoti is the most heavily traveled, due to
its location atop Cheaha Mountain. A number of overlooks provide great views of the
mountain. A number of overlooks provide great views of the mountain and surrounding
forest. Several trails intersect atop the mountain at Caney Head Shelter, the only shelter
on the southern part of the Pinhoti Trail. Cheaha State Park and nearby Lake Chinnabee
provide developed campsites, from which day hikes can be taken on the Pinhoti and other
nearby trails.
This section of the Pinhoti begins on Al. Highway 281, between
the park entrance and the parking area where the road curves sharply before entering the
park. You soon arrive at a trail junction. The Odum Scout Trail will bear left and end
near the parking area on 281. The trailhead for the Cave Creek Trail is located a short
distance ahead. The Pinhoti Trail will continue on your right (A trail sign lists the
distances for Caney Head Shelter and Adams Gap).
At approximately .8 mile, cross an old jeep road. There is a good
campsite just ahead and great views of Cheaha Lake and the Talladega Forest below.
Continue along the ridge and begin ascending for a short distance. At approximately 1.4
miles, the trail makes its way through and over large rocks to the ridge top at Hernandes
Peak. There is a small campsite here.
At approximately 1.9 miles, you will come to the Cheaha
Wilderness boundary, marked by a dedication plaque in the rock. A short distance ahead,
you will come to a trail sign listing distances back to Cheaha State Park (2 miles) and
ahead to the shelter (4 miles). The trail will descend for a while via switchbacks before
leveling out at approximately 2.3 miles. This is another area suitable for camping. At 2.5
miles, ascend and reach a rocky area with excellent views of the Talladega Forest below
and Cheaha State Park to the north.
Reach a junction at approximately 2.9 miles, with a spur trail
leading .25 mile to McDill Point. This is a very good overlook with excellent views of
Talladega Mountain to the south and the Talladega Forest area below. The Pinhoti Trail
will swing around the ridge, heading east, then north as it ascends and descends several
times. Another camping area is located where the trail again turns to the east. The trail
soon turns southward and gradually ascends.
Reach a Cheaha Wilderness sign at approximately 3.8 miles. Cross
a rocky area and reach another trail junction at 4 miles. The Cave Creek and Nubbin Creek
trails can be reached by ascending up the ridge (the Cave Creek Trail leads back to Cheaha
State Park via the east side of the mountain while the Nubbin Creek Trail descends to
Nubbin Creek road on the east side of the mountain and intersects with the Odum Scout
Trail south of Caney Head Shelter). The Pinhoti Trail continues to the right. A sign lists
Caney Head Shelter as 2 miles ahead. The remainder of the trail to the shelter will run
along the top of the mountain.
At approximately 5 miles, a rocky cliff area affords great views
of McDill Point on your right, Talladega Mountain to your left and the forest below. Reach
Caney Head Shelter at 6 miles. Here, the Odum Scout Trail and the Chinnabee Silent Trail
intersect the Pinhoti Trail. The Odum Scout Trail leads 4.7 miles down Cedar Mountain past
High Falls, to a trailhead just off FR 650 near Pyriton. The Chinnabee Silent Trail
descends and makes its way 6 miles to its terminus at Chinnabee Lake. A fairly reliable
water source is located just a few yards down the Chinnabee Silent Trail on your left
(during summer months, you may want to check with forest personnel or Cheaha State Park
personnel as to the water availability). The shelter and nearby area are heavily used by
groups of hikers. Smaller campsites are available just a short distance south.
From the shelter and trail junction, the Pinhoti continues
southwest along the west side of the mountain. Reach a campsite area at approximately 6.6
miles, with a rocky cliff affording very good views of the forest below. Ascend to another
overlook before continuing along the ridge. At 7.2 miles, come to a thick overgrowth area.
A steep ascent leads to a rocky overlook with great views of the mountain and surrounding
forest.
The trail will descend, via switchbacks, through a large boulder
area at approximately 7.5 miles. This area has been recently remarked and is much easier
to follow than when I first hiked the trail. This area is the hardest part of the trail if
backpacking, due to walking over the large rocks and descending as steeply as it does.
After passing through the large boulders, the trail continues descending gradually. Reach
a sign and old forest road at approximately 8.5 miles. Turn right (northeast) onto this
road and follow it for approximately 400 yards. Here a sign directs the hiker southwest
while the road continues northward. The remainder of this section of the trail will wander
along the base of the mountain, around several ridges, and crossing several small creeks.
At approximately 11 miles, you will see FR 600 on your right, as the trail parallels the
road to Adams Gap. It is 6 miles to Clairmont Gap to your left via FR 600. The Pinhoti
trail continues across the road as it makes its way for another 11 miles to its southern
terminus at Chandler Springs.
Section 9 (6 miles) Adams Gap to Clairmont Gap
This section of the trail picks up on the west side of FR 600.
From the road, descend and cross a watershed. The Skyway Loop Trail intersects the Pinhoti
Trail approximately .1 mile from FR 600. This junction was not marked by any sign when I
hiked the trails (the Skyway Loop Trail leads 6 miles to intersect the Chinnabee Silent
Trail near Lake Chinnabee).
The trail crosses over several very rocky areas within the first
mile. At approximately 1.2 miles, you will make two switchbacks to your right after
crossing two watershed areas. Descend and cross the first of two small creeks. Hike over a
small hill and cross the second creek before ascending through another rocky area. After
several switchbacks, reach an old road (637-R) at 1.8 miles.
Cross the road and begin ascending southeast. Make a switchback
to your right and continue west along the ridge. Good views of the Talladega can be seen
during winter months. The trail will come close to FR 600 on your left and cross the road
at approximately 3 miles. Reach rock formations to the left of the trail at approximately
3.6 miles. Here you can get good views to the southeast and southwest. At 4 miles, cross
FR 600 again. The trail continues southwest along the ridge. Reach the top of the ridge at
approximately 4.7 miles and hike along the overgrown rocky terrain. Good views to the west
and north can be had from this area. At 5.2 miles, begin descending. A rocky ledge
provides excellent views of the mountain chain and the Talladega Forest. Switchbacks that
lead back to your right, below the cliffs, and then left, will take you down to Clairmont
Gap at 6 miles. The sign only notates locations to the north, since the next section of
the trail leading south to Chandler Springs was completed only recently. From the Gap, FR
600 leads 6 miles back to Adams Gap and south 5 miles to Chandler Springs. County Road
103, which intersects Fr 600, leads to Al. Highway 77 and north to Munford.
Section 10 (5 miles) Clairmont Gap to Chandler Springs
This section, like section #1, has been added since publication
of the present Pinhoti Trail Map. An up-to-date trail map is being assembled by the Nation
Forest office in Montgomery, but no date has been set for its publication when I last
talked to forest rangers.
From Clairmont Gap, the Pinhoti Trail continues on the west side
of FR 600 after crossing the road junction. The trail continues its southwest direction as
it passes along the north side of the ridge over very rocky terrain. At approximately 1
mile, the trail becomes easier until you again cross over rocky terrain at 1.5 miles. At
approximately 1.8 miles, the trail will veer right (northwest) before swinging around the
ridge and heading south. A small creek is located downhill on your right. You will ascend
briefly before reaching FR 600 at approximately 2 miles.
After crossing FR 600, the trail will swing around to your right
as it continues on the south side of the ridge. At 2.2 miles, a rocky overlook to the left
of the trail offers very good views from east to west. At approximately 2.4 miles, the
trail will bear left (east), then right (south) as it descends. Continue along the ridge
before again descending. At 2.9 miles, swing around to your right (north) along the side
of the ridge.
At approximately 3.3 miles, switchback to your left (west) and
descend gradually. Cross a small creek at 3.5 miles and ascend southwest between two
ridges. You will soon make a switchback to your left (east) before ascending south, then
west along the ridge.
At 4 miles, cross FR 600 again and continue west between the road
on your left and the ridge on your right. The trail will swing through a gap to the north
side of the ridge and continue west. Reach a saddle at approximately 4.5 miles and ascend
to the ridge. Continue along the ridge. At approximately 4.8 miles, you will begin
descending and switchback to your right (north). A second switchback to your left runs
through an overgrown area before reaching the road at approximately 5 miles (the trail
will cut back to the right for approximately 100 yards before reaching the trail sign and
road).
It is .5 mile to your left to FR 600, and another 5 miles to
Clairmont Gap via FR 600.
Chinnabee Silent Trail (Moderate/Strenuous)
This trail is adequately named, since it was built from 1973-76
by the Boy Scout Troop 29 from the Alabama School For The Deaf in Talladega and connects
Lake Chinnabee and the Pinhoti Trail on Talladega Mountain. The 6 mile trail begins near
the southern end of Lake Chinnabee, which is located just west of Cheaha State Park.
From the trailhead sign, the trail follows Cheaha Creek. A trail sign
for the Lakeshore Trail is posted 50 yards from the trailhead (this 2 mile trail follows
the shoreline of Lake Chinnabee). Another 100 yards brings you to the trail sign for the
Skyway Loop Trail. This 6 mile trail wanders through variable terrain before intersecting
the Pinhoti Trail at Adams Gap on FS Road 600. The Chinnabee Silent Trail continues along
Cheaha Creek. A small campsite is located on your right, next to the creek and not very
far from where the Skyway Loop Trail splits off. Within a few minutes, the trail and creek
will head NE and the trail will ascend above the creek. At .5 mile, reach the Devil’s
Den, where a wooden ramp and steps descend before arriving at Cheaha Falls. This is a
popular location for both campers and day hikers, who enjoy the Falls and pools to cool
off during hot weather.
Reach another small campsite just above the Falls. At approximately .7
mile, cross a small creek on your left. Another small campsite is located just ahead on
your right. The trail turns N at approximately 1.1 miles and leaves the creek. Ascend and
swing around a cove at approximately 1.5 miles before ascending and crossing a ridge. The
trail then descends and crosses a small creek. Bear right as the trail crosses a second
ridge and swings around to cross a third ridge. Descend from this 3rd ridge (good views of
Talladega Mountain) and cross Cheaha Creek at approximately 2.4 miles. Reach FS Road 600
at 3.0 mile. Cross the road and come to a trail sign just ahead. Cross a small creek
before coming to the paved road, which leads to Cheaha State Park to the north and soon
ends after traveling south approximately 1 mile. A parking area to your right would
eliminate having to retrace your hike by having a second vehicle at this location.
Cross the road and swing S before reaching the Turnipseed Hunter Camp
at 4.0 miles. This is a large area used as a hunter camp during hunting season. From here
the trail turns SE and reaches the Cheaha Wilderness boundary at 4.4 miles. The last mile
of the trail ascends, rather steeply, to intersect the Pinhoti Trail on top of Talladega
Mountain. Caney Head Shelter is located only a few yards to your left. The Odum Scout
Trail continues straight ahead while the Pinhoti Trail follows the ridgetop of Talladega
Mountain.
Lake Chinnabee is easy to reach by driving to Cheaha State Park and
following the signs.
Skyway Loop Trail (Moderate)
This 6 mile trail branches off from the Chinnabee Silent Trail
and winds up at Adams Gap on Forest Service Road 600. From the campground at Lake
Chinnabee, follow the Chinnabee Silent Trail along Cheaha Creek. The sign for the 2 miles
Lakeshore Trail is located approximately 50 yards down the trail. This trail follows the
shoreline of Lake Chinnabee as a 2 miles loop. Continue straight and reach the sign for
the Skyway Loop Trail another 100 yards down the trail.
Bear right at the sign and cross Cheaha Creek by way of large
rocks. The trail ascends and makes its way along a ridge, with Cheaha Creek below on your
left. The trail will cut back to your right at approximately 1/2 mile and make its way
along the ridge before switching back to your left and heading S. Cross two very small
creeks, with a small campsite, and reach Forest Service Road 645 at approximately 1.1
mile. Cross the road and soon reach a very overgrown area with briars. I found two small
metal signposts, which helped in navigating through the overgrowth. This is the only bad
section of the trail, but a Cheaha Wilderness map and compass are needed if you are going
to hike this trail. After briefly ascending from the overgrowth, across FS Road 64SF. The
trail soon makes a switchback to your left; but, this is hard to find due to downed trees
and bulldozer tracks, After several switchbacks, reach Hubbard Creek at approximately
2.3miles. This area near the creek is suitable for camping and the creek is large enough
to provide a water source. Any water should be boiled, chemically treated or filtered
before use. The trail crosses Hubbard Creek and ascends around a ridge. Upon reaching the
top of the small ridge, bear left and pick up the trail again on your right. At
approximately 2.7 miles, the trail reaches a FS Road but remains to the left as it
continues along the ridge. This part of the trail will provide views of the Talladega
Mountain ridge to the south. Cross old FS Road at approximately 3.1 miles and descend. The
trail will cut back to the left at approximately 3.6 miles and then back to the right
before ascending. Cross an old FS Road at 4.0 miles and descend. The trail will wind
around three ridges before descending and making its way through an overgrowth area. At
approximately 4.8 miles, cross two creeks where the smaller one merges with the larger.
You will soon cross two more small creeks and gradually ascend (heading south). Cross
another creek at approximately 5.2 miles and continue to gradually ascend. Cross an old FS
Road at 5.9 miles and ascend before reaching FS Road 600 and Adams Gap at 6.0 miles. The
Pinhoti Trail crosses the road here. To the right, it is 6.0 miles to Clairmont Gap and to
the left, it is 5.5 miles to Caney Head Shelter and 11 miles to Cheaha State Park
facilities. FS Road 600 leads north approximately 6 miles to intersect the paved CR 42
running through Cheaha State Park.
Whereas the Chinnabee Silent Trail is a favorite for those
camping at Lake Chinnabee and day use folks, the Skyway Loop Trail receives very little
traffic and will provide a hike with variable terrain and lots of solitude. I strongly
suggest carrying map, compass, snacks and water.
Lakeshore Trail (Easy)
This 2 miles loop trail follows the shoreline of Lake Chinnabee.
The trail starts approximately 50 yards from the trailhead sign for the Chinnabee Silent
Trail located at the south end of the lake. Cross Cheaha Creek by way of large rocks and
follow the trail as it follows the shoreline of the lake. After the trail swings around to
the left at approximately 1 mile, you come to the small dam. Cross the creek just below
the dam. Be careful when crossing the rocks. The trail then follows the shoreline back to
the right. Cross another creek at approximately 2.0 miles and continue to follow the
shoreline. The trail ends back at the camping area. There are some uphill areas and 3
creek crossings: but leisurely walked, this trail is not difficult.