Are ready for a day to disconnect from the internet and reconnect with yourself or friends and family? Take a trip over to the Talladega National Forest for the ultimate nature day. The area offers plenty of activities for everyone in your family to enjoy.
Hiking
One of the main recreational activities in the Talladega National Forest is hiking. There are trails located throughout with varying degrees of difficulty. One of the most extensive hiking areas in the park is the Pinhoti National Recreation Trail. This area includes more than 100 miles of trails for moderate to difficult opportunities. The trail is open all year.
Another unique hike is the Chinnabee Silent Hiking Trail. It is a moderately difficult trail that was constructed by Boy Scout Troop 29 from the Alabama Institute for the Deaf and Blind in Talladega. The six-mile hike begins at Lake Chinnabee and winds you through natural beauty before ending at Caney Head at the top of Talladega Mountain. While on the walk, make a note of the various waterfalls and other natural wonders. This is a popular trail for visitors who enjoy the rock outcroppings and other features.
Regardless of what trail you are hiking, make sure you let someone know where you are going. Bring a backpack with all necessary supplies including food, water, bug spray, and sunscreen, as well as your camera and a light jacket.
Mountain Biking
Bring your mountain bike to the forest for some exciting trail riding. Don’t forget a helmet for all riders, as the terrain is challenging but fun. Bicycles are allowed on all trails including ATV trails. The Sylaward Bike Trail welcomes riders of all ages. It is a 14-mile long trail located in Sylacauga. The path is for easy to intermediate expeditions. Bring along a backpack with a picnic lunch and some water to enjoy the day. Keep in mind there are no bathrooms located along the trail. There is also no water available.
For safety, consider letting someone know when you are leaving on your journey and your departure point. If you have a return time in mind, let them know.
Camping
Don’t rush home after your day in nature. Turn it into an overnight adventure and camp in the national forest. You can bring your trailer and park it alongside Payne Lake. This campground features 53 campsites, 27 of which are for either tents or RVs. The western side of the lake is open for camping year-round, with the eastern side opening during the busy season to accommodate more visitors. There are electric and water hookups on the property, as well as bathhouses.
If you are in the mood to truly reconnect with nature, consider one of the primitive camping areas like Turnipseed Camp. Turnipseed is near the Cheaha Wilderness Area. It does have bathrooms.
Before you leave for the Forest, pack a small backpack with supplies like a first aid kit, binoculars, snacks, and some drinks to get the most out of your day. Add your camera to the bag to capture nature without disturbing it.
Image via Flickr by Rick from Alabama under use of CC BY 2.0
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