Our first experience with the Talladega National Forest and Cheaha State Park was in July 2015 when we thought it was a good idea to go hiking through the woods in the heart of an Alabama summer. We were about three miles in when the first snake slithered across the path in front of us. With no cell service, an overgrown trail and no other people around us for miles, we made the decision to turn around and begin the long (and very, very hot) trek back to the car.

Fast forward four months, and we decide to head back to Talladega for a fun weekend of camping at Cheaha with some friends. Imagine our surprise when the temperature drops into the twenties with a wind chill in the low teens as soon as the sun sets – beginning the coldest (and longest) night of our lives. Needless to say – we were not prepared for that degree of cold!!

Three years later, we had the opportunity to go back to Cheaha State Park for Riley and Paxton’s engagement session and this time the trip did not disappoint! The weather was perfect with no snakes in sight – thank goodness – and this sweet couple rocked it in front of the camera! Just wait until you see the pictures from just after sunset at Bald Rock. Riley’s dress was everything!! We’re counting down the days until their wedding!!