Overview
Coleman Lake Loop circles a quiet lake in Talladega National Forest's Shoal Creek District, offering one of the most accessible trail experiences in the forest. The 3.5-mile loop stays close to the lake through most of its length, with 150 feet of total elevation change over rolling terrain. The lake and adjacent campground make this a good family destination, with the swimming area available during the warmer months.
The Shoal Creek District is the quieter, lower-elevation portion of the forest, away from the Cheaha summit crowds. No permit required. Day use fee at the recreation area (as of 2026).
The Route
The full loop (3.5 miles). The trail begins at the Coleman Lake Campground day use area and circles the lake counterclockwise through mixed pine and hardwood forest. The east shore section passes closest to the water, with views across the lake to the wooded hills beyond. The west shore section is more shaded, passing through a denser stand of shortleaf pine and mixed oak.
A footbridge crosses the lake's inlet stream at the upper end. The swimming area is accessible from the day use parking area at the start and finish of the loop. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow throughout.
When to Hike
April through October: The full recreation area experience, with swimming, lake fishing, and mild hiking weather. Summer weekends can be busy at the campground, but the trail itself is rarely crowded.
March: Early spring wildflowers in the forest margins and the beginning of bass fishing season on the lake.
November: Quiet fall color on the wooded hillsides. The campground closes in late fall, but day hiking remains possible.
What to Bring
Many hikers carry 1 liter of water for this short loop. Water is available at the recreation area. Fishing rod and a valid Alabama fishing license (as of 2026) for lake fishing. Towel and swimwear if you plan to use the swimming area.
Trailhead Access
Coleman Lake Campground in the Shoal Creek Ranger District, off AL-21 south of Talladega. The campground is well-signed from AL-21.
Practical Details
No permit is required for day hiking on this trail. Dogs are welcome on leash. The trail is popular with families. Flush restrooms are available at the trailhead. Water is available at the trailhead. Cell service is limited in this area; downloading offline maps before your visit is recommended.
The recommended season for this trail is March through November. Conditions outside this window may include challenging weather, trail closures, or reduced accessibility. Always verify current conditions with the Talladega National Forest ranger district before visiting, particularly at the beginning and end of the recommended season when conditions are most variable.
The lake provides a visual focus for the trail and is a good birding location in the early morning hours. The water feature along this trail supports a range of wildlife; keep pets on leash near the water. Wildlife is present throughout the forest. Maintain distance from any animals encountered on or near the trail.
Before any visit, review the Leave No Trace seven principles and our checking conditions guide for current fire restrictions, trail closures, and ranger district advisories. The America the Beautiful pass covers day use fees at developed recreation areas where applicable. Veterans and active military have additional access options covered in our veteran benefits guide.
Nearby
The Shoal Creek Trail provides a longer creek-based hike from the same district. For the Cheaha experience, the Cheaha Trail and Pinhoti Trail: Cheaha Section are about 25 miles to the east. See the full Talladega National Forest guide. Follow Leave No Trace principles at the lake.