🐾⛰️ Hiking the Pinhoti Trail to Hernandez Peak & McDill Point – Cheaha State Park, Alabama!

Join me and Simba the Adventure Pup as we hike to new heights in Alabama’s tallest state park! 🚶‍♂️🐶⛰️ We hit the Pinhoti Trail to explore Hernandez Peak and McDill Point — two of the most scenic overlooks in Cheaha State Park, with stunning ridgeline views, cool mountain air, and peaceful forest paths all around.

This hike was everything we love about the Southeast: Appalachian vibes, pine woods, and golden retriever joy every step of the way. 💛🐾

📍 Trail Info

Trail: Pinhoti Trail to Hernandez Peak & McDill Point
Location: Cheaha State Park – Delta, AL
Distance: ~4.5–5 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate (some rocks + steady incline)
Dog-Friendly: Absolutely! Simba gave it four muddy paws up 🐾🐾🐾🐾
Highlights: Ridgeline views, quiet forest trails, and mountaintop zen 🌲🌄

🌲 Trail Vibes & Highlights

We started our adventure at the Pinhoti Trailhead, and it was shaded and peaceful right from the start. The pine forest makes for a soft, fragrant walk, with just enough incline to get the heart pumping. 💪

Simba led the way like a true trail boss 🐕‍🦺 and was totally in his element — sniffing pine needles, bouncing over rocks, and pausing for ALL the mountain breezes. 🐾🍃

First up was Hernandez Peak, a quieter overlook that’s perfect for a mid-hike break. But the big views come later…

⛰️ McDill Point Magic

This overlook is the real deal. Wide-open views of the Talladega National Forest stretch for miles. 🌄 You’ll feel like you’re standing on top of the world — and in some ways, you are. It’s one of Alabama’s highest points, and it’s totally worth the climb.

We stayed a while just soaking it in — Simba with his nose to the wind, and me with a smile I couldn’t wipe off my face. Pure mountaintop bliss. 😊

🐶 Dog-Friendly Tips

💦 Bring extra water — it’s a dry trail
🎒 A cooling bandana or vest helps in warmer months
🧗‍♂️ Leash required — especially near steep cliffs and drop-offs
🕶️ Start early for cooler temps and fewer hikers

🚐 RV Life Bonus

Cheaha State Park is RV-friendly with full hookup sites, mountain views, and direct trail access. You can wake up, pour your coffee, and hit the trails — no car required! 🏕️☕🚶‍♂️

🎥 Watch the Full Video!


Want to see the views and Simba’s summit victory dance? 🐕💃
Catch the full hike now on our YouTube channel — Life on Paws and Wheels — and come along for the ride!

📲 Follow Our Journey

Weekly videos + daily adventures = golden retriever joy on the go!
👉 Instagram, TikTok & YouTube: @lifeonpawsandwheels

🌟 Final Thoughts

From piney ridgelines to panoramic peaks, this trail is one of our favorite stops in Alabama so far. Cheaha is truly a gem, and McDill Point is chef’s kiss for anyone chasing views with their pup. 🐾❤️⛰️

Until next time — happy trails, cool breezes, and wagging tails!
– Ash & Simba 🐕‍🦺✨

Location: Delta, AL, USA

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