The Chief Ladiga Trail stands as Alabama’s inaugural extended rails-to-trails endeavor, interlinking the cities of Anniston, Weaver, Jacksonville, and Piedmont as it traverses Calhoun and Cleburne Counties. Offering a safe, motor-free avenue for travel, exercise, and leisure amidst the great outdoors, this trail showcases a scenic journey through streams, wetlands, forests, farmlands, and mountains, catering to families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Anniston’s trail extension stretches an additional 6.5 miles, bringing the Chief Ladiga Trail’s total length to approximately 39.5 miles. The Chief Ladiga seamlessly connects Anniston’s Multimodal Amtrak Station to the state of Georgia’s Silver Comet Trail, forming the longest paved pedestrian pathway in the United States by becoming an expansive 105+/- mile paved trail.
Other Options Along the Chief Ladiga
While noted for bicyclists, the Chief Ladiga is a popular walking path, as well. Offering an easy grade, smooth pavement, and beautiful scenery, it’s a great way to enter the East Alabama woods without getting too far off the beaten path.
The Chief Ladiga Trail offers some great short hikes on flat paved ground close to town yet with that wild space feel. Park at Pinhoti Pizza and walk west towards Jacksonville. Within a mile you are in the woods and farms, a natural spring (Southern Spring) and the historical marker of the Creek-Cherokee boundary.
Chief Ladiga Trail also provides some longer hiking opportunities for people wanting to walk but not necessarily in the deep woods or difficult terrain. Such walks are accessible to a broad range of abilities. The 10 mile stretch from Germania Spings Park outside of Jacksonville east to Pinhoti Pizza in Piedmont is a favorite. This walk is approximately 50% shaded woodland with some points of interest, creeks, benches/stopping places and wildlife. This has recently been resurfaced. Ideal for pushchairs and wheelchairs. Good cell reception along this section. Recommend keeping dogs on a leash since this is popular with cyclists.
Explore more biking opportunities in the area, from easy biking to gravel grinding.
Share the Trail
- Stay to the right except when passing. Pass on the left and give an audible signal such as “On your left” or a bell.
- Control your speed. Slow down when approaching other users, curves, road crossings, and congested areas.
- Ride single file when others are present or whenever space is limited.
- Yield to pedestrians and give them plenty of space.
- Stop at all road crossings and obey stop signs and traffic signals.
Be Prepared
- Wear a properly fitted bike helmet.
- Carry water, snacks, a basic tool kit, spare tube, and pump or CO2.
- Use front and rear lights and high-visibility clothing if you ride near dusk or dawn.
- Check weather and trail conditions before your trip, especially east of Piedmont where services are limited.
Pets & Wildlife
- Keep pets on a short leash and under control at all times.
- Clean up after your pet and pack out waste.
- Do not feed wildlife. Observe animals from a distance.
Leave No Trace
- Pack out all trash, including food wrappers and bottles.
- Stay on the paved trail and designated paths to protect sensitive areas.
- Respect private property and posted signs along the corridor.
Hours & Safety
- Most communities recommend riding during daylight hours only.
- Carry a charged phone and let someone know your route and expected return time.
- Report hazards or suspicious activity to local law enforcement or parks & recreation offices.
Local regulations can vary slightly by city or county. Check posted signs at each trailhead for the most current rules.