Join ATF for a celebration on Pinhoti Trail December 10
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Public invited to celebrate a Pinhoti Trail improvement project
Special to the News
The Alabama Trails Foundation invites the public to join with friends and fellow outdoor enthusiasts to celebrate the renovation of Jogloma-Scott Lake as a thru-hiker respite and day-explorer destination.
Jogloma-Scott Lake is nestled in the Talladega National Forest at the foot of Horn Mountain and is one of many special places along the Pinhoti Trail.
The improvement project enhances the hiker experience and showcases the scenic beauty of Alabama’s Appalachian Mountains and the Talladega National Forest.
After a moderate 3.5-mile trek south from the Porter’s Gap Trailhead off Alabama Highway 77 hikers will find a renovated area, including a newly constructed bridge and pier, along with improvements to stabilize the trail and prevent erosion. Natural elements are used to restore a riparian area while providing conversation spots and places to enjoy a snack.
Vehicle access will be allowed to the project site for the celebration event, with details provided after registration.
The ATF originally announced the new bridge project in August, stating it had begun work at Jogloma-Scott Lake for a bridge, pier and other improvements.
At that time the ATF reported that the new bridge will provide opportunities that encourage foot traffic, while discouraging off-road vehicular traffic, long illegal in this portion of the national forest, and an ongoing challenge for effective land management.
In August Paul DeMarco, president of the ATF, stated, “Our mission is to preserve, promote and expand Alabama’s incredible trail systems. This project directly addresses a long-standing need cited in the Pinhoti Master Plan as a priority project, making this beautiful part of the Talladega National Forest more accessible and enjoyable for hikers. Recognizing that this was an important project, the Alabama Power Foundation provided the initial funding to kick-start this project, and Innovate Alabama stepped in as an enthusiastic funder shortly thereafter.”
The Jogloma-Scott Lake area is a beloved destination for hikers, birdwatchers, and nature enthusiasts, offering a captivating landscape and a quiet escape. The new bridge is expected to further increase visitation to the area, encouraging more people to connect with Alabama’s rich natural heritage.
“This bridge is more than just a crossing; it’s an invitation,” said Cindy Ragland, ATF executive director. “It invites people to step out, explore and experience the beauty of the Talladega National Forest in a way that is both safe and inspiring. We believe this will be a valued addition for years to come.”
The Alabama Trails Foundation encourages all hikers to visit Jogloma-Scott Lake and experience the enhanced trail system firsthand now that the project is completed.
Join the ATF for the free celebratory event highlighting the Jogloma-Scott Lake project. Those interested can register online at https://alabamatrailsfoundation.org/jogloma2025.
