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Routes
Mountain biking trails

Cheaha Express, Bunker Loop and Deer Run

Routes
Mountain biking trails

Cheaha Express, Bunker Loop and Deer Run

Moderate

3

riders

Cheaha Express, Bunker Loop and Deer Run

01:12

12.6km

300m

Mountain biking

This moderate 7.8-mile mountain biking route in Cheaha State Park offers diverse terrain and views, including the Mount Cheaha Observation T

Last updated: February 26, 2026

Tips

Your route passes through a protected area

Please check local regulations for:

Cheaha State Park

Waypoints

A

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

1

43 m

Cheaha Express Trail Entrance

Highlight • Trail

Cheaha Express trail is marked with yellow blazes.

Tip by

2

4.32 km

Boardwalk to Bald Rock

Highlight • Trail

The Bald Rock Boardwalk, also known as the Doug Ghee Boardwalk, is a wheelchair accessible board walk that leads to an overlook called Bald Rock. This is the highest natural point in Alabama.

Tip by

3

6.94 km

Mount Cheaha Observation Tower

Highlight • Viewpoint

A tall tower within the park that offers 360 degree views from the top of Mount Cheaha.

Tip by

4

12.4 km

Cheaha Restaurant Overlook

Highlight • Viewpoint

This overlook is on the back patio of the bar/restaurant inside of Cheaha State Park. This overlook is accessible even when the facility is closed.

Tip by

B

12.6 km

End point

Parking

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Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

8.95 km

1.79 km

1.56 km

308 m

Surfaces

8.95 km

3.32 km

192 m

158 m

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Elevation

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Highest point (720 m)

Lowest point (570 m)

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Weather

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Today

Friday 8 May

21°C

9°C

0 %

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Max wind speed: 9.0 km/h

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This route was planned by komoot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the terrain like on the Cheaha Express, Bunker Loop and Deer Run mountain biking route?

The route offers a varied experience. The Cheaha Express features a mix of smooth, fast singletrack and more challenging rocky and technical sections, including roots and ditches. The Deer Run trail is characterized by rocks and roots, narrow sections, and a few short water crossings. The 'Bunker Loop' portion likely incorporates park roads or connector sections, offering a different surface.

Is this mountain biking route suitable for beginners?

This route is generally rated as moderate. Both the Cheaha Express and Deer Run trails are considered intermediate (blue difficulty) singletrack. They require good fitness and some technical skill due to rocky sections, roots, and descents. Beginners might find parts challenging.

What can I see along the Cheaha Express, Bunker Loop and Deer Run route?

You'll encounter diverse scenery and points of interest. Highlights include the Cheaha Express Trail Entrance, the scenic Boardwalk to Bald Rock, and the impressive Mount Cheaha Observation Tower. You can also enjoy views from the Cheaha Restaurant Overlook. The trails themselves offer pleasant rolling terrain and views, especially in winter, and pass by mountain springs.

Where can I park to access this mountain biking route?

You can typically find parking near the Cheaha Express Trail Entrance or the Bald Rock Parking Area within Cheaha State Park. Specific parking for the Deer Run trail can often be accessed from the Cheaha Express trail itself.

What is the best time of year to mountain bike this route?

While enjoyable year-round, the route offers particularly good views during winter when foliage is less dense. The trails are part of a system that crosses mountain springs, so conditions can vary with recent rainfall. Always check local trail conditions before heading out.

Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee for Cheaha State Park?

Yes, Cheaha State Park typically charges an entrance fee per person or per vehicle to access the park and its trails. It's advisable to check the official Cheaha State Park website for current fee structures and any specific permit requirements for mountain biking.

Is the Cheaha Express, Bunker Loop and Deer Run route dog-friendly?

Cheaha State Park generally allows dogs on its trails, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Please ensure you clean up after your pet to maintain trail cleanliness for all users.

Does this route connect with other trails in Cheaha State Park?

Yes, this route is part of a larger trail network. It intersects with sections of the Pinhoti Trail, Doug Chee Accessible Trail, Upper Spring Trail, Lower Spring Trail, and Cheaha Run Trail, among others. This allows for various options to extend or modify your ride.

What is the 'Bunker Loop' part of this mountain biking route?

The 'Bunker Loop' is not a dedicated singletrack mountain biking trail like Cheaha Express or Deer Run. It likely refers to a segment that connects or is ridden in conjunction with these trails, possibly incorporating park roads or a route that goes around the Bunker Observation Tower within Cheaha State Park.

What should I know about riding the Cheaha Express trail?

The Cheaha Express trail was specifically designed for bikers, though hikers also use it (bikers have the right of way). Be aware that it can be fast and rocky, with some sections where 'the wrong line can crack your frame,' as some riders describe. Good bike handling skills are recommended for its technical parts.

Are there any amenities or facilities near the trailhead?

As the route is located within Cheaha State Park, you'll find amenities such as restrooms, picnic areas, and potentially a restaurant or store, especially near the main park facilities or the Cheaha Restaurant Overlook. For more extensive options like cafes or accommodation, you would need to look outside the immediate park area.

Nearby routes

Moderate

3

Cheaha Express, Bunker Loop and Deer Run

01:12h

12.6km

300m

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