52 Weeks of Fun

Not Just Destination Finders, But Destination Storytellers

The Hiking Project

Nubbin Creek Trail

This little-known hike is quickly becoming well known. Located just south of Cheaha Mountain, Alabama’s highest peak, the Nubbin Creek Trail is a true classic, showcasing what makes the Talladega National Forest a true treasure for Alabama.

For day-hikers, the 6-mile out-and-back is wonderful. Climbing the side of the Little Caney Head Mountain from the trailhead, the path passes several sparkling cascades as they flow down the mountain. Some of these falls are seasonal, though, and views of Mill Shoals Cascades and the Upper Falls can be limited when there are leaves on the trees, as the area is overgrown with vegetation, but hikers will hear the water below.

Early spring is the best time to catch them all. And don’t miss the short side trail .3-miles into the hike along this thick rhododendron-lined path. Many people miss it but it’s worth keeping an eye out for as you come out onto a bluff for a breathtaking view into a small gorge where the waters of Nubbin and Mills Shoals Creek converge into a frothy show. Be warned that the white blazes become hard to find as you near the top of the ridge and the turn-around for this trip, the intersection of the Nubbin and Cave Creek Trail.

This trail connects with the Odum Scout Trail and the Pinhoti Trail where it takes hikers through thickets of mountain laurel, through boulder fields, and past grand rock cliffs to reach its grand destination, a beautiful vista on a rock outcrop that provides unobstructed views westward into the heart of Alabama. The view of Talledega Mountain and the Cheaha Wilderness is best seen in winter when the mountains and valleys are green.

For weekend backpackers, the trip can be made into a spectacular 31-mile loop by joining the Nubbin Trail with the Cave Creek, Odum Scout, Chinnabee Silent, Skyway Loop, and Pinhoti trails. As you ramble over the mountains you will be treated to wonderful vistas from rock outcroppings and spectacular waterfalls along Cheaha Creek.

Southeast Nature Society
Travel East Alabama

A 52 Weeks of Fun Fascinating Fact about Nubbin Creek Trail

Interestingly, this hike never gets close to its namesake, Nubbin Creek. It’s the Mill Shoals Creek that hikers will see on this hike.

Attraction Advice

The Nubbin Creek Trail is open and accessible year-round. The hike is rated moderate with a 2,300-foot elevation gain in the first 10 miles. To reach the trailhead, take State Route 49 North from Lineville for 8.2 miles. Turn left on County Road 31 for 0.4 miles, then turn right on Watts Road. Follow Watts Road for 0.8 miles to Nubbin Creek Road and take a left. Follow Nubbin Creek Road for 0.6 miles. Just after the small bridge over Mill Shoals Creek, turn right the dirt road that leads past the "Nubbin Creek Trailhead" sign, and follow it to the Nubbin Creek Trail parking area. This is a wilderness area. Be sure to pack plenty of food and water, even for a day hike, and let someone know your itinerary before heading out.



Southeast Nature Society

Views of Mill Shoals Cascades and the Upper Falls can be limited when there are leaves on the trees.
Travel East Alabama

The Nubbin Creek Trail trailhead begins at the parking area located about 10 miles from Lineville.
Travel East Alabama

The trail is a well-seen and well-maintained trail through the Cheaha Wilderness.
Nate Shivar

For those choosing to backpack on its 31-mile loop, nice areas can be found to pitch a tent.

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