Chief Ladiga Trail
The Chief Ladiga Trail is Alabama’s first extended “rails-to-trails” project. Once the site of the former Seaboard/CSX Railroad, the trail was converted into a recreational bike and walking trail and is currently enjoyed by thousands of people every year.
This family-focused paved pathway offers a safe, non-motorized setting in which to travel, exercise, relax, and enjoy the beautiful outdoors. Along the trail, you can enjoy all of the beautiful scenery our part of Alabama has to offer, including wetlands, forests, farmlands, and mountains!
The Chief Ladiga Trail offers so much to do for so many, and it along with the Georgia Silver Comet Trail stands as the second longest paved trail in the United States; stretching over 100 miles from Anniston, Ala. to Atlanta, Ga.!
More About The Chief Ladiga Trail.
The Ladiga Trail came into being in 1990 with the approval of a grant from the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT). The Calhoun County Commission and the City of Piedmont received and Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act (ISTEA) enhancement grant, to be exact, and the funding of the first 8.9 miles officially began.
In 1994, the cities of Jacksonville and Piedmont – along with the Cleburne County Commission – were awarded further ISTEA grants to continue their projects. In 1997, Jacksonville and Anniston were awarded National Recreational Trails Fund (NRTF) grants to build their connecting trail ways and add to the majesty of the Chief Ladiga.
Finally, in 1998, the final piece of the puzzle, the City of Weaver, fell into place; receiving ISTEA grant money as well to build their 2.5 mile section and complete the trail connections. Soon after, the entire connected trail was open and ready for use.
Today, in Calhoun County, the Chief Ladiga Trail is designed to offer fun and excitement to:
- Pedestrians
- Cyclists
- Strollers
- In-Line Skaters
- Wheel Chairs
In Cleburne County, the trail can even accommodate equestrians, mountain bikers, and hikers!
For more information about the Chief Ladiga Trail, please call the City of Piedmont at 256-447-3560.
Eubanks Welcome Center.
The Eubanks Welcome Center is open 7 days a week and provides a rest stop for anyone using the trail. It is equipped with restrooms, refreshments, minor bike repair parts and trail information.
For more information on the trail, please contact the Eubanks Center at 256-447-3363.
