Talladega National Forest Lake Chinnabee Recreation Area

I was back at this site recently while doing the loop in the area and just wanted to give an update on what it is like in the spring time. The water level was crazy high and all the flowers and trees were blooming it was so beautiful. I would suggest visiting either mid spring or summer so you can see the flowers and enjoy the high water levels or when it is hot you can go take a dip in the lake or one of the many waterfalls.

We love Chinnabee! The short hike to the gorgeous falls is perfect for the kids. While you can continue on for miles if you wish, we prefer to stay at the water and climb the little falls. We have been there at every season of the year and it is always beautiful.

This area is a great place to start off a hike into the Cheaha area or just to visit for a day. There is a bunch of parking and picnic benches along with a boat let in. We passed through on our way to go backpacking deeper in the wilderness. The one major caution is to check the seasons that the site is open since it was locked up when we were there. We ended up parking at the gate and walking down the road a mile where we met up with friends who had hiked in from a different area. If you go down the trail a little ways along the river there is an incredible waterfall that is awesome for swimming in the hot summer months. There is also a shelter to stay in before you start climbing up to the peak.