Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail — Attraction in Alabama

This trail is a hidden Alabama gem! I set out with my dog to do the whole 4-mile loop. I had my Garmin watch on so I was somewhat keeping track of distance. I had previously read the reviews about poor trail markings, but I found that I had no trouble navigating the trail so I figured that they must have made some improvements since those reviews. Then, at about three miles in according to my watch, it started getting difficult. Next thing you know, I'm starting to kind of recognize things I might have passed before. So I try retracing my steps to figure out where I made a wrong turn. No luck. Ended up at the same place. So I gave up and tried to find my way back to the parking lot. But I do not end up at the parking lot. I'm back along the edge of the lake wondering if I've already hiked this spot. Do I remember that tree laying like that? Would I have noticed it the first time I passed it? Anyways, I finally give in and check my phone gps, I guess I ended up on the north loop, which I hadn't completed already. So I finish the north loop and then took an emergency trail out of there and eventually made it back to the trailhead. My watch said I hiked over 7 miles at that point. Whoops. I know I'm not great at navigation, but I've done a lot of hiking in the last 6 years, and I did not expect to have that much trouble! I had fun, though. I'd do it all over again!So, I'm sure you'll be fine. If you get "lost", just stay on the trail and you'll eventually figure it out or pass someone that does. I took 7 miles to get out of there because I'm a dangerous mix of lazy, stubborn, and adventurous; that doesn't have to be your fate! Speaking of passing someone: I went on a Friday or Saturday at the start of Fall, and I only passed maybe two groups of people. Not a very high-traffic trail, which was exactly what I was looking for. The view at the trailhead is nice, too. The boaters can be annoyingly loud next to the trail, which kind of ruins the nice peaceful hike. My dog gives it 3 out of 4 paws: In his opinion, there were not enough deer visible for him to (try to) chase (I am grateful for that!), and he had to ride to town with a stinky bag of his poo because he couldn't find a trash can to...

The Cherokee Alpine Trail is one of the most refreshing hikes I’ve experienced in Alabama. The trail winds through a beautiful mix of jungle-like woods and lakeshore views, offering a peaceful and scenic atmosphere throughout. Hearing birds chirping as you walk adds to the calming vibe, making it a great escape into nature.

The trail is well-marked with clear directions, so it’s easy to follow. There’s also a free parking lot nearby, which makes the trip even more convenient. We packed some snacks and enjoyed them at the end of the hike—a perfect way to relax and take in the surroundings.

If you're looking for a moderate hike that offers natural beauty and a peaceful environment, the Cherokee Alpine Trail is a great choice. Highly...

I am with CRATA, (Cherokee Ridge, Alpine Trail Association), and we had a ceremony for the President of CRATA and his wife, given by Tallapoosa Tourism! We took lots of pictures and did a little hiking and seeing nest of different birds like one of our woodpeckers that is the only kind to nest in a living tree hollow. It was a great time and view along with discussion of what's next for our great adventures and work that keeps up these trails to include Smith Mountain in Jackson's Gap! Look forward to having more trail blazers to sign in and...