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Started By
Message
TulaneLSU's hike of Cave Creek Trail in Cheaha, AL
Posted on 5/18/20 at 6:49 pm
Posted on 5/18/20 at 6:49 pm
Dear Friends,
We have arrived home safely from our Alabama sojourn. Thank you for all your prayers and words of encouragement. One day, I decided to take Uncle's vehicle a bit north of Auburn and go for a hike. A security guard I met on the campus of the university suggested it, as well as a good soul food and BBQ restaurant called Byron's Smokehouse, which, unfortunately, I did not fit into the dining schedule. Next time. You can follow all my tips and struggles through Auburn and its environs by clicking any of the links below:
TulaneLSU's Top 10 staircases of Auburn University
TulaneLSU's Top 10 trees of Auburn University
TulaneLSU’s Top 10 flowers of Auburn University
TulaneLSU's Top 10 pizzas of Auburn, AL
TulaneLSU's guide to Goodwater, AL
TulaneLSU's vacation to Tuskegee, AL
TulaneLSU's Top 10 signs of Ashland, AL
TulaneLSU's review of The Hotel at Auburn University
One of the very few things that life in New Orleans lacks is good hiking options. One can only hike up the mountain in Couturie Forest in City Park or the levees 500 or so times before getting bored with those hikes. New Orleans has excellent urban hiking, if you enjoy flat land. Flat land extends hundreds of miles to the west and east of the city. South is water, and north is Mississippi, and who wants to go to Mississippi? One could head to the Ozarks, but that is a very far distance. The closest reasonable hikes, unfortunately, are in northern Alabama.
I drove rather blindly to get to Cheaha State Park. GPS stopped working just past Goodwater, so I relied on my instinct, which rarely fails, unless it involves a female. Almost always my instinct fails with the ladies. If I think they like me, they don't. And if I assume they don't like me, they usually do. I suggest God implanted in my spirit or mind a map of the world, but at the cost of that map was a complete lack of direction with the ladies.
It is bad hiking technique to go alone on a mountainous trail with which you have no familiarity and without food, drink, map, or compass. But that is usually how I operate. I have never had any mishaps, except that one time in North Carolina where I was lost overnight on a journey to Mount Mitchell. Neither Mother nor Uncle missed me that night, so there was no panic, nor was a rescue crew sent to find me. When I finally ascended and then returned to the lodge, I thought I would receive a hero's welcome. Instead, all I got was, "We thought you were reading in your room this entire time."
The Cave Creek Trail is from seven to eight miles in length, depending on who you ask. One hiker I met said it was 9 miles. I actually believe I walked a good nine miles. Budget a good four to five hours for the hike. It starts in a parking lot, which was quite full by the time I arrived. The shape of the hike is a north to south hotdog. On the west side there is a curve, much like the handle of a curling stone.
I strongly recommend doing the clockwise route. From the trail head, which is about 1/4 mile up the hill from the state park entrance and on the right side of the road from the entrance, you will stay left at the original fork in the path. You are heading generally south into a forested wood that is quite well covered and protected from the elements.
The path, for the most part, is well marked and well worn, especially in this section. There is one sharp turn about 4/5 of the way complete that is easily missed and will add a few miles to your journey. Thankfully, a camper was camped at this dogleg and alerted me. The markings on this route are either orange or blue.
This eastern side of the trail, again, is protected and shady. There are only two decent outlooks, which are not very impressive compared to those on the west side of the trail. That is why I recommend going this route. It's always nice to save your dessert for the end.
There are some enjoyable natural elements along the way. I include a few pictures of moss, lichen, broken trees, and mountain laurels, which were in full bloom throughout the trail. This time of year is prime laurel season. I so wanted to pick some laurels for Mother, but decided that would be in poor taste and perhaps illegal, since it was a state park.
We have arrived home safely from our Alabama sojourn. Thank you for all your prayers and words of encouragement. One day, I decided to take Uncle's vehicle a bit north of Auburn and go for a hike. A security guard I met on the campus of the university suggested it, as well as a good soul food and BBQ restaurant called Byron's Smokehouse, which, unfortunately, I did not fit into the dining schedule. Next time. You can follow all my tips and struggles through Auburn and its environs by clicking any of the links below:
TulaneLSU's Top 10 staircases of Auburn University
TulaneLSU's Top 10 trees of Auburn University
TulaneLSU’s Top 10 flowers of Auburn University
TulaneLSU's Top 10 pizzas of Auburn, AL
TulaneLSU's guide to Goodwater, AL
TulaneLSU's vacation to Tuskegee, AL
TulaneLSU's Top 10 signs of Ashland, AL
TulaneLSU's review of The Hotel at Auburn University
One of the very few things that life in New Orleans lacks is good hiking options. One can only hike up the mountain in Couturie Forest in City Park or the levees 500 or so times before getting bored with those hikes. New Orleans has excellent urban hiking, if you enjoy flat land. Flat land extends hundreds of miles to the west and east of the city. South is water, and north is Mississippi, and who wants to go to Mississippi? One could head to the Ozarks, but that is a very far distance. The closest reasonable hikes, unfortunately, are in northern Alabama.
I drove rather blindly to get to Cheaha State Park. GPS stopped working just past Goodwater, so I relied on my instinct, which rarely fails, unless it involves a female. Almost always my instinct fails with the ladies. If I think they like me, they don't. And if I assume they don't like me, they usually do. I suggest God implanted in my spirit or mind a map of the world, but at the cost of that map was a complete lack of direction with the ladies.
It is bad hiking technique to go alone on a mountainous trail with which you have no familiarity and without food, drink, map, or compass. But that is usually how I operate. I have never had any mishaps, except that one time in North Carolina where I was lost overnight on a journey to Mount Mitchell. Neither Mother nor Uncle missed me that night, so there was no panic, nor was a rescue crew sent to find me. When I finally ascended and then returned to the lodge, I thought I would receive a hero's welcome. Instead, all I got was, "We thought you were reading in your room this entire time."
The Cave Creek Trail is from seven to eight miles in length, depending on who you ask. One hiker I met said it was 9 miles. I actually believe I walked a good nine miles. Budget a good four to five hours for the hike. It starts in a parking lot, which was quite full by the time I arrived. The shape of the hike is a north to south hotdog. On the west side there is a curve, much like the handle of a curling stone.
I strongly recommend doing the clockwise route. From the trail head, which is about 1/4 mile up the hill from the state park entrance and on the right side of the road from the entrance, you will stay left at the original fork in the path. You are heading generally south into a forested wood that is quite well covered and protected from the elements.
The path, for the most part, is well marked and well worn, especially in this section. There is one sharp turn about 4/5 of the way complete that is easily missed and will add a few miles to your journey. Thankfully, a camper was camped at this dogleg and alerted me. The markings on this route are either orange or blue.
This eastern side of the trail, again, is protected and shady. There are only two decent outlooks, which are not very impressive compared to those on the west side of the trail. That is why I recommend going this route. It's always nice to save your dessert for the end.
There are some enjoyable natural elements along the way. I include a few pictures of moss, lichen, broken trees, and mountain laurels, which were in full bloom throughout the trail. This time of year is prime laurel season. I so wanted to pick some laurels for Mother, but decided that would be in poor taste and perhaps illegal, since it was a state park.
4
Posted on 5/18/20 at 6:49 pm to TulaneLSU
If you are doing the clockwise route and start at the Cheaha Trailhead, you will come to the Cave Creek approximately two or three miles into the hike. This is a nice place to stop, snack, say prayers, and cool your feet if the weather is warm. The water moves slowly, but there are small waterfalls, which are more pleasing to the ears than the eyes. Don't expect Niagra or anything close to that. Do expect to enjoy the lovely sound of moving mountain water. I sat and focused on the words of Psalm 46:
God is our refuge and strength,
an ever-present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way
and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea,
though its waters roar and foam
and the mountains quake with their surging.
There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God,
the holy place where the Most High dwells.
God is within her, she will not fall;
God will help her at break of day.
Nations are in uproar, kingdoms fall;
he lifts his voice, the earth melts.
The Lord Almighty is with us;
the God of Jacob is our fortress.
You will continue south another mile. All of this trail thus far is very easy with only modest changes in elevation. If you are a mountain jogger, it is an enjoyable path to run, thus far. You will soon be making a sharp turn to the north. When you hit this turn, the real hiking begins.
It is at this turn that you join the Pinhoti Trail. This is the southern most section of the Appalachain Trail, which I have yet to complete, although I would like to finish it one day. I have about 1100 miles of it bagged thus far. I didn't realize that I would add another 3 or 4 miles to that total on this trip. It was only in 2008 that Pinhoti was added to the Trail. It is a worthwhile addition, as it really is mountainous. But I wonder if true AT aficionados consider this really part of the AT.
This part of the hike becomes significantly more rocky and you will not be hiking the ridge of the mountain. At this point, if you look to your right you will see what looks like the ridge with rocky outcroppings. At several points, I went off the trail to ascend these outcroppings. Each time, beyond those peaks were even higher outcroppings. I spent about an hour in this rugged terrain exploring and looking for outlooks, but ultimately found none and returned to the trail.
Continuing northward, you will soon quickly make a left. This section is the start of the curling stone handle I mentioned earlier. It is the best part of the hike and has multiple spots which afford spectacular views of the the ridge you have just traversed, as well as the valley to the west and north. I wondered that if in the early morning, with the sun to your back, you might be able to see some of Birmingham, which is not very far away. Then I wondered, "Would you want to see such a city?"
To get to McDill Point, which is at 2126 feet you have to detour off the trail about a quarter of a mile. Be sure you make this detour, as this is where you have the best vantage of the area, as seen below.
Certainly, this is another time to pause, reflect, pray, and perhaps, if you've brought your Bible or 1928 copy of the Book of Common Prayer, to read a few passages. Psalm 121 is a great psalm to memorize, which forgoes the need to bring a Bible with you on such a hike. Reciting these beautiful words puts you in touch with the faith of our ancestors and with God.
I lift up my eyes to the mountains—
where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord,
the Maker of heaven and earth.
He will not let your foot slip—
he who watches over you will not slumber;
indeed, he who watches over Israel
will neither slumber nor sleep.
The Lord watches over you—
the Lord is your shade at your right hand;
the sun will not harm you by day,
nor the moon by night.
The Lord will keep you from all harm—
he will watch over your life;
the Lord will watch over your coming and going
both now and forevermore.
Some people brought tents and this would be a great spot to spend a night. I did not see any bears or signs of bears or warnings for bears, but I assume there may be some black bears in the region. I almost forgot to add that while I stood on a rocky precipice, I came within a hundred yards of a bald eagle soaring and searching. I wish I had snapped a photo, but with the sun now in my face, it probably would have only given a silhouette of the eagle. Because the sun was so bright, it caused a palinopsia. I can still see that eagle.
While there was not that much wildlife along the trail, I did want to include a few friends that joined me along the way:
The beauty, splendor and diversity of life in this park recalled the 16th chapter of 1 Chronicles.
Sing to the Lord, all the earth;
proclaim his salvation day after day.
Declare his glory among the nations,
his marvelous deeds among all peoples.
For great is the Lord and most worthy of praise;
he is to be feared above all gods.
For all the gods of the nations are idols,
but the Lord made the heavens.
Splendor and majesty are before him;
strength and joy are in his dwelling place.
Ascribe to the Lord, all you families of nations,
ascribe to the Lord glory and strength.
Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name;
bring an offering and come before him.
Worship the Lord in the splendor of his holiness.
The hike was nearing its end and I gave God thanks again for this marvelous world and this marvelous life that allows us to experience nature in such a way. I hope each of you get the opportunity to do some nice hikes soon.
Faith, Hope, and Love,
TulaneLSU
God is our refuge and strength,
an ever-present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way
and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea,
though its waters roar and foam
and the mountains quake with their surging.
There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God,
the holy place where the Most High dwells.
God is within her, she will not fall;
God will help her at break of day.
Nations are in uproar, kingdoms fall;
he lifts his voice, the earth melts.
The Lord Almighty is with us;
the God of Jacob is our fortress.
You will continue south another mile. All of this trail thus far is very easy with only modest changes in elevation. If you are a mountain jogger, it is an enjoyable path to run, thus far. You will soon be making a sharp turn to the north. When you hit this turn, the real hiking begins.
It is at this turn that you join the Pinhoti Trail. This is the southern most section of the Appalachain Trail, which I have yet to complete, although I would like to finish it one day. I have about 1100 miles of it bagged thus far. I didn't realize that I would add another 3 or 4 miles to that total on this trip. It was only in 2008 that Pinhoti was added to the Trail. It is a worthwhile addition, as it really is mountainous. But I wonder if true AT aficionados consider this really part of the AT.
This part of the hike becomes significantly more rocky and you will not be hiking the ridge of the mountain. At this point, if you look to your right you will see what looks like the ridge with rocky outcroppings. At several points, I went off the trail to ascend these outcroppings. Each time, beyond those peaks were even higher outcroppings. I spent about an hour in this rugged terrain exploring and looking for outlooks, but ultimately found none and returned to the trail.
Continuing northward, you will soon quickly make a left. This section is the start of the curling stone handle I mentioned earlier. It is the best part of the hike and has multiple spots which afford spectacular views of the the ridge you have just traversed, as well as the valley to the west and north. I wondered that if in the early morning, with the sun to your back, you might be able to see some of Birmingham, which is not very far away. Then I wondered, "Would you want to see such a city?"
To get to McDill Point, which is at 2126 feet you have to detour off the trail about a quarter of a mile. Be sure you make this detour, as this is where you have the best vantage of the area, as seen below.
Certainly, this is another time to pause, reflect, pray, and perhaps, if you've brought your Bible or 1928 copy of the Book of Common Prayer, to read a few passages. Psalm 121 is a great psalm to memorize, which forgoes the need to bring a Bible with you on such a hike. Reciting these beautiful words puts you in touch with the faith of our ancestors and with God.
I lift up my eyes to the mountains—
where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord,
the Maker of heaven and earth.
He will not let your foot slip—
he who watches over you will not slumber;
indeed, he who watches over Israel
will neither slumber nor sleep.
The Lord watches over you—
the Lord is your shade at your right hand;
the sun will not harm you by day,
nor the moon by night.
The Lord will keep you from all harm—
he will watch over your life;
the Lord will watch over your coming and going
both now and forevermore.
Some people brought tents and this would be a great spot to spend a night. I did not see any bears or signs of bears or warnings for bears, but I assume there may be some black bears in the region. I almost forgot to add that while I stood on a rocky precipice, I came within a hundred yards of a bald eagle soaring and searching. I wish I had snapped a photo, but with the sun now in my face, it probably would have only given a silhouette of the eagle. Because the sun was so bright, it caused a palinopsia. I can still see that eagle.
While there was not that much wildlife along the trail, I did want to include a few friends that joined me along the way:
The beauty, splendor and diversity of life in this park recalled the 16th chapter of 1 Chronicles.
Sing to the Lord, all the earth;
proclaim his salvation day after day.
Declare his glory among the nations,
his marvelous deeds among all peoples.
For great is the Lord and most worthy of praise;
he is to be feared above all gods.
For all the gods of the nations are idols,
but the Lord made the heavens.
Splendor and majesty are before him;
strength and joy are in his dwelling place.
Ascribe to the Lord, all you families of nations,
ascribe to the Lord glory and strength.
Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name;
bring an offering and come before him.
Worship the Lord in the splendor of his holiness.
The hike was nearing its end and I gave God thanks again for this marvelous world and this marvelous life that allows us to experience nature in such a way. I hope each of you get the opportunity to do some nice hikes soon.
Faith, Hope, and Love,
TulaneLSU
This post was edited on 5/18/20 at 6:54 pm
Posted on 5/18/20 at 7:02 pm to TulaneLSU
I live very near there.
Posted on 5/18/20 at 7:07 pm to TulaneLSU
Your best ever
Posted on 5/18/20 at 7:14 pm to TulaneLSU
quote:How did you get lost there?
I was lost overnight on a journey to Mount Mitchell.
Posted on 5/18/20 at 8:59 pm to auggie
Munford?
Posted on 5/18/20 at 10:43 pm to AUCE05
quote:
Munford?
Clay County. NW of Barfield.
Posted on 5/19/20 at 3:14 pm to auggie
quote:
Clay County.
My in-laws live in Shinbone.
Nice thread. I love going up to Cheaha. There's a lot of cool stuff to do and explore.
This post was edited on 5/19/20 at 3:16 pm
Posted on 5/19/20 at 3:51 pm to IAmNERD
quote:
quote:Clay County. My in-laws live in Shinbone. Nice thread. I love going up to Cheaha. There's a lot of cool stuff to do and explore.
It's a good place to live around here. It's a long way to a Walmart though, so it aint for everybody.
Posted on 5/19/20 at 3:57 pm to TulaneLSU
Great description of this hike. I walk several miles most mornings and can see Cheaha for most of my walk. We probably take it for granted.
I hope not.
I hope not.
Posted on 5/19/20 at 4:05 pm to auggie
quote:
I live very near there
Do you have any suggestions for a place to stay near this trail area. Cabins, AirBNB, or even the closest town that may have a decent Marriott property?
This is the first TulaneLSU thread that I think I've ever enjoyed.
Posted on 5/19/20 at 4:14 pm to notiger1997
I know you didn't direct your question to me, but Oxford, AL has several hotels and is only a few minutes to the state park. You can see Cheaha from some of them. I know there is a Courtyard there.
The State Park has cabins and chalets on the mountain as well.
The State Park has cabins and chalets on the mountain as well.
Posted on 5/19/20 at 4:15 pm to notiger1997
quote:
Do you have any suggestions for a place to stay near this trail area. Cabins, AirBNB, or even the closest town that may have a decent Marriott property?
There are cabins and a hotel up at The State Park. Other than that, there are Hotels at Anniston, that's about 25 miles away.
Posted on 5/19/20 at 6:25 pm to TulaneLSU
quote:
I wondered that if in the early morning, with the sun to your back, you might be able to see some of Birmingham, which is not very far away. Then I wondered, "Would you want to see such a city?"
Laughed too hard at this.
Posted on 5/19/20 at 7:11 pm to HailToTheChiz
quote:
Laughed too hard at this.
I looked over that way one time to see The Vulcan, but I think he musta been squatted down or somethin.
Posted on 5/19/20 at 7:25 pm to Rebnbama
If you go, also hit up the Dugger Mountain Wilderness. There is also Terrapin Creek to float.
ETA
Bring your bike and hit the Chief Ladiga Trail.
ETA
Bring your bike and hit the Chief Ladiga Trail.
This post was edited on 5/19/20 at 7:36 pm
Posted on 5/19/20 at 8:03 pm to AUCE05
quote:
If you go, also hit up the Dugger Mountain Wilderness.
I have never been to the Dugger Mountain area, Do a lot of people go there?
Posted on 5/19/20 at 10:33 pm to auggie
Not as much as Cheaha. But it is still a great hike
Posted on 5/20/20 at 1:40 am to AUCE05
quote:
Not as much as Cheaha. But it is still a great hike
I was wondering, if it might be a good place to go pick some huckleberries? They get gone pretty fast at Cheaha.
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