Flagg Mountain Tower View — Lookout Mountain in distance from Flagg Mountain Observation Tower (The Bama Buzz)

Alabama Senator Tommy Tuberville and Representative Mike Rogers have introduced legislation expanding the boundaries of the Talladega National Forest by 50,000 acres.

Called the Talladega National Forest Expansion Act, the bill will enable the U.S. Forest Service to purchase land within the expanded boundaries from willing sellers in three East Alabama counties.

One of the goals of the expansion is to enhance Alabama’s longest hiking trail — the Pinhoti Trail.

“I was glad to join Coach Tuberville in this effort to allow the expansion of the boundary of the Talladega National Forest by 50,000 acres. The proposed expansion to complete the southern portion of the Pinhoti Trail will provide a large boost to our local outdoor tourism industry. I was glad to work closely with our local leaders on this legislation and am hopeful to see an undivided Pinhoti Trail in the near future.”
Rep. Mike Rogers

Why Talladega National Forest expansion matters

Flaggmountaintower 20220305 112522 Pinhoti Trail — Flagg Mountain Observation Tower is the terminus of the Pinhoti Trail.(The Bama Buzz)

According to Sen. Tuberville’s news release about the legislation, the National Forest boundary expansion, will target parts of the Pinhoti Trail that require hikers to walk on roads.

Currently, about 15 miles of the trail is interrupted by what are called “road walks.” The legislation would allow acquisition of lands that would transform the 15 miles of road walks into off-road trails.

By getting hikers on the Pinhoti off roadways they will greatly enhance safety and the natural experience on the popular trail.

The legislation is endorsed by the Talladega County Commission, Coosa County Commission, Clay County Commission and Alabama Trails Foundation.

Paul DeMarco, President, Alabama Trails Foundation summed up why this legislation matters.

“The expansion of the Talladega National Forest represents a legacy of commitment to outdoor recreation and conservation. It lays the foundation for making the Pinhoti Trail an even more popular destination and positions east Alabama to continue growing an outdoor recreation economy into a powerhouse that spotlights the importance of Alabama’s natural resources.”