Embark on an unforgettable ultrarunning journey at the Chief Ladiga 100, a celebrated southern springtime classic returning for its fifth edition on April 11, 2026, in Jacksonville, Alabama. This event offers a range of distances including 100M, 50M, 50K, and a Half Marathon, making it an ideal choice for both seasoned ultrarunners and those tackling their first 100-mile challenge. Starting and finishing at the Jacksonville Community Center, the courses primarily traverse the scenic Chief Ladiga Trail, connecting to Georgia's equally renowned Silver Comet Trail to form one of the longest continuous paved pathways in the United States.

The Chief Ladiga 100 is renowned for its "super fast and crew friendly" paved rail-to-trail course, guiding runners through picturesque wetlands, babbling streams, lush forests, expansive farmlands, and breathtaking mountain vistas of the Appalachian foothills, with glimpses of Dugger Mountain and Mount Cheaha. The 100-mile out-and-back route from Jacksonville to Nathan Dean Park in Rockmart, Georgia, features a manageable total elevation gain and loss of approximately 3,500 feet, providing a runnable experience. Runners will find extensive support with 14 aid stations strategically placed no more than 8 miles apart, most of which are easily accessible by crews, ensuring a well-supported race experience. Typical race day conditions in mid-April bring pleasant highs around 73°F and lows around 45°F, with an 18% chance of precipitation.

Beyond the challenge, the Chief Ladiga 100 fosters an encouraging atmosphere, with volunteers praised for being uplifting and aid stations well-stocked. All participants receive a race t-shirt, and 100-mile finishers are rewarded with what is frequently described as "the coolest buckle/finisher medal in ultrarunning". Post-race festivities at the finish line, complete with food, beverages, and music, celebrate every achievement on this fast, scenic, and beginner-friendly ultra course.