Take the Talladega Scenic Byway Over Cheaha
Alabama’s mountain highway, Route 281 runs the ridge of the Talladega National Forest and up to the flanks of Mount Cheaha, the highest point in the state. It’s a curvy, forested, overlook-studded drive that feels more Appalachian than anything most people expect from Alabama — because it is the tail end of the Appalachians.
The route: Cheaha State Park summit and Bunker Tower → Bald Rock boardwalk → Pulpit Rock overlook → the scenic pull-offs along 281.
| Cost | |
|---|---|
| Time needed | |
| Best season | |
| Where | Talladega National Forest · East · ~26 miles Alabama |
Common questions
When's the best time to visit Talladega National Forest?
Best season: .
How much does it cost?
. Prices drift — confirm before you go.
How long should I plan for?
Plan for about .
Is it actually worth the trip?
Our rating: Worth the drive. A ridge-running mountain byway to the roof of Alabama. Roll the windows down.
One of 120 in Kick the Bucket List: Alabama
The full book is 120 checkable picks like this one — with a Bucket Rating on every entry telling you what's worth the drive and what to skip. A keepsake you fill in and score.
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Non-negotiableVerified 2026-07. Prices and hours change — confirm before you drive. Something wrong? Tell us.