2026 Chief Ladiga 100
The 2026 Chief Ladiga 100, part of the Southern Springtime Classic's fifth year, will take place on April 11, 2026, starting and finishing at the Jacksonville Community Center in Jacksonville, Alabama. The event is scheduled for a 7:00 AM Central start time, with expected weather conditions in Jacksonville averaging around 60°F (15°C) with partly cloudy skies, providing ideal running conditions for the trail run. Participants can expect a unique experience on the country’s longest paved trail, traversing the Chief Ladiga Trail and Silver Comet Trail, offering a mix of natural landscapes and scenic views. The event includes multiple distances, with the 100-mile race being the main attraction, featuring a flat and fast course with rolling hills and aid stations strategically placed along the route.
What is the 2026 Chief Ladiga 100?
The 2026 Chief Ladiga 100 is a road and paved trail run that takes place on April 11, 2026, in Jacksonville, Alabama. It is part of the Southern Springtime Classic and is held on the Chief Ladiga Trail and Silver Comet Trail, which together form the country’s longest paved trail. The event is structured as a point-to-point out-and-back race, offering multiple distances for runners of varying experience levels.
What distances are available for this event?
- →100 Miles – Main event with a 32-hour cutoff
- →50 Miles – Starts at Germania Springs and returns to Jacksonville
- →50K – Point-to-point from the state line
- →Half Marathon (13.1) – Point-to-point from Eubanks Welcome Center in Piedmont to the Jacksonville Community Center
What is the course like for the 100-mile event?
The 100-mile course is an out-and-back on smooth paved trail, running 50 miles from Jacksonville, Alabama, to Nathan Dean Park in Rockmart, Georgia, and then back to the Jacksonville Community Center. The terrain is mostly flat with some rolling hills in the middle section. The course passes through wetlands, streams, forests, and farmlands, offering panoramic views of the Appalachian mountain foothills. The total elevation gain and loss is approximately 3,500 feet.
Are there aid stations on the course?
Yes, there are 14 aid stations along the 100-mile course, with no more than 8 miles between them. All aid stations except two are crew-accessible, allowing runners to receive support from their crew if needed.
What is the start and finish location for the event?
The start and finish location for the 2026 Chief Ladiga 100 is the Jacksonville Community Center in Jacksonville, Alabama. The 50-mile and 50K races start at different locations, with the 50-mile race beginning at Germania Springs and the 50K starting near Esom Hill, approximately 30 minutes from Jacksonville.
What are the event start times?
All distances for the 2026 Chief Ladiga 100 start at 7:00 AM Central on April 11, 2026. A shuttle option is available for $20 via the store link.
What is included in the registration?
All runners receive a t-shirt and, upon finishing, a buckle or finisher medal. The finish line celebration includes food, beverages, and music for all finishers.
Are there any special features of the 100-mile race?
The 100-mile race is considered beginner-friendly due to its flat and fast profile, despite being a 100-mile distance. The course is designed to provide a smooth and manageable experience for runners, with aid stations and crew access available along the route. The race is an out-and-back format, allowing runners to complete the full 100 miles and return to the starting point.
What should participants expect in terms of weather?
The event is scheduled for April 11, 2026, in Jacksonville, Alabama, where the typical weather conditions in early April include temperatures averaging around 60°F (15°C) with partly cloudy skies. Runners can expect mild conditions that are ideal for long-distance trail running.
What is the significance of the Chief Ladiga Trail?
The Chief Ladiga Trail is a key feature of the event, as it runs along the country’s longest paved trail. The trail connects Alabama and Georgia, running through the Chief Ladiga Trail and the Silver Comet Trail, providing a scenic and accessible route for runners. The trail is known for its smooth surface and natural beauty, making it a popular choice for long-distance runners.