Cheaha Summit / Bald Rock Overlook

AL-281 — the Talladega Scenic Drive — climbs steadily through Talladega National Forest before dead-ending at the summit of Cheaha Mountain, Alabama's highest point at 2,407 feet. The park sits on the southernmost tip of the Appalachian Mountain chain, and on clear days the forest canopy rolls out in every direction with no competing skyline in sight. The road is well-maintained and, per the park's own guidance, wide enough for large vehicles — useful context for riders who want to know what the final approach feels like before they commit to the detour.

At the top, two distinct overlook options sit within steps of the parking area. Bunker Tower is a stone observation deck built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s; the CCC also quarried the native Cheaha Quartzite used throughout the park's historic structures. The Bald Rock boardwalk — formally the Doug Ghee Accessible Trail — is a short, paved, wheelchair-accessible walkway that leads out to an open rock face above the tree line. Both give you the elevated view; the tower puts you inside a piece of Depression-era construction history, while the boardwalk delivers you straight onto exposed granite with open air on three sides.

The summit area also has restrooms and picnic tables, so it's a practical rest stop, not just a photo op. Cellular service inside the park is limited, so download any maps or route notes before you head up.