Chief Ladiga Trail – Jacksonville Train Depot loop from Calhoun County
Chief Ladiga Trail – Jacksonville Train Depot loop from Calhoun County
3.5
(9)
94
riders
Chief Ladiga Trail – Jacksonville Train Depot loop from Calhoun County
06:19
105km
510m
Cycling
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: March 18, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
65 m
Chief Ladiga Western Terminus
Highlight • Cycleway
Tip by
29.9 km
Chief Ladiga Trail
Highlight • Cycleway
Tip by
30.1 km
Piedmont
Highlight • Settlement
Tip by
41.5 km
Chief Ladiga Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
Tip by
52.7 km
Chief Ladiga Trail & Silver Comet Trail
Highlight • Cycleway
Tip by
80.1 km
Bald Hornet
Highlight • Summit
95.3 km
Jacksonville Train Depot
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
105 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
105 km
221 m
Surfaces
105 km
221 m
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Elevation
Highest point (300 m)
Lowest point (190 m)
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Weather
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Today
Thursday 11 June
32°C
21°C
57 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 8.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
The Chief Ladiga Trail – Jacksonville Train Depot loop from Calhoun County is a truly difficult touring cycling route, covering 65.5 miles (105.4 km) with 1658 feet (505 metres) of elevation gain, and typically takes around 6 hours and 18 minutes to complete. If you're looking for a substantial day out on two wheels, this challenging loop offers a rewarding journey through Alabama's first rail-to-trail conversion, perfect for experienced cyclists ready for a long ride.
What to expect on Chief Ladiga Trail – Jacksonville Train Depot loop from Calhoun County
This route takes you through a varied landscape, from the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains to the serene Talladega National Forest. You'll cycle past wetlands, open fields, and wooded sections, with distant views of peaks like Dugger Mountain and Mount Cheaha. The trail is predominantly paved and follows a former railroad corridor, meaning the elevation changes are generally slow and steady, though the overall distance and gain make it a demanding ride. A highlight is the Jacksonville Train Depot, a beautifully refurbished 1860s building that offers a convenient stop. This trail is best suited for cyclists who are comfortable with long distances and sustained effort, even if the gradients are gentle.
Planning your visit
The Chief Ladiga Trail is well-maintained and marked, making navigation straightforward. Parking is available at various points along the trail, including near the Jacksonville Train Depot, which also provides public restrooms. While the trail is accessible year-round, spring and fall offer the most pleasant temperatures for such a long ride. Be sure to carry enough water and snacks for the entire duration, as amenities might be spread out between towns like Anniston, Weaver, Jacksonville, and Piedmont.
Trail details
- Distance: 65.5 miles (105.4 km)
- Elevation gain: 1658 feet (505 metres)
- Difficulty: difficult
- Estimated time: 6 hours and 18 minutes
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