Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Maps: USGS Cheaha, AL;
DeLorme: Alabama Atlas & Gazetteer,
page 32 F5;
US Forest Service Pinhoti Trail Map #4 featuring Cheaha Mountain available at
Cheaha State Park camp store or online at www.nationalforeststore.com
Trail contact: US Forest Service Talladega Ranger District, 1001 North St., Tal-
ladega, AL 35160; (256) 362-2909; www.fs.usda.gov/alabama
Finding the trailhead: From Lineville at the intersection of AL 9 and AL 49, take
AL 49 north 10.7 miles and turn left onto Nubbin Creek Road (there is a brown
USFS sign pointing the way at the turn). In 0.8 mile the pavement ends. Continue
another 2.3 miles. The parking lot is on the right and well marked. The trailhead is
on the east side of the parking lot. Don't use the wide dirt road on the left (west).
GPS: N33 24.946' / W85 48.356'
The Hike
Waterfalls abound in Talladega National Forest, and the Nubbin Creek Trail high-
lights a couple of them. The trek described here is a 4.1-mile out-and-back. The
actual full trail is 4 miles long and ends at its intersection with the Cave Creek
Trail, but my favorite section is the first 2 miles, and for good reason: There is a
water-filled gorge, two waterfalls, nice mountain views, and a terrific campsite if
you want to take an easy overnight backpacking trip.
Overall, the trail is not too difficult, but you will find that it is a steady, moder-
ate climb up and around rocky waterfalls and streams to the turnaround. The most
picturesque time to hike the trail is in early to mid-spring, when rains fill the
creeks and the waterfalls run full. Late September through October is another
great time—the foliage is fantastic!
From its beginning at the Nubbin Creek Trailhead, the route is narrow, with
longleaf pines, white oak, and thick brush giving the path an enclosed feeling.
When hiking in spring you will find yourself walking through a few “tunnels” of
beautiful white mountain laurel.
Details on trail conditions and national forest rules are posted on an information
board near the start of the trail. Sometimes there is a register here. If it's there, it is
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