Heflin Spur Junction – Cheaha Express Trail Entrance loop from Cleburne
Heflin Spur Junction – Cheaha Express Trail Entrance loop from Cleburne
4.6
(6539)
7,697
riders
Heflin Spur Junction – Cheaha Express Trail Entrance loop from Cleburne
04:26
63.8km
1,170m
Cycling
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Last updated: April 17, 2026
Tips
Includes a segment in which cycling is not permitted
After 86 m for 51 m
Waypoints
Start point
Get Directions
111 m
Heflin Spur Junction
Highlight • Settlement
Tip by
31.7 km
Walt Farr Native American Relic Museum
Highlight • Historical Site
31.8 km
Cheaha Express Trail Entrance
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
32.1 km
Cheaha Restaurant Overlook
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
32.7 km
Talladega Scenic Dive
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
63.8 km
End point
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
62.9 km
800 m
< 100 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
62.7 km
538 m
386 m
150 m
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Elevation
Highest point (650 m)
Lowest point (290 m)
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Weather
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Today
Monday 6 July
31°C
20°C
94 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 9.0 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 Heflin Spur Junction – Cheaha Express Trail Entrance loop from Cleburne is a challenging touring cycling route that truly earns its "difficult" rating, covering 39.6 miles (63.7 km) with a substantial 3826 feet (1166 metres) of elevation gain over an estimated 4 hours and 25 minutes. This loop is perfect for experienced cyclists seeking a rigorous ride through Alabama's highest mountains, combining scenic road sections with potential off-road adventures.
What to expect on Heflin Spur Junction – Cheaha Express Trail Entrance loop from Cleburne
Prepare for a diverse journey through the Talladega National Forest, where you will encounter varied terrain from paved roads to potentially technical singletrack. The route connects the Pinhoti Trail's Heflin Spur, which offers scenic mountain views and passes by Rocky Creek Waterfall, with the Cheaha Express Trail, known for its rolling terrain and mix of smooth and rocky sections. Expect significant climbs and descents, especially along the Talladega Scenic Drive, which provides breathtaking views of the Appalachian Mountains and surrounding forests.
Planning your visit
This loop is best tackled by well-prepared cyclists with a capable touring or gravel bike, given the mix of road and potential off-road conditions. Heflin, known as "Alabama's Trail Town," offers amenities like lodging and restaurants, making it a convenient stop or base. Always carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months, and be aware that the Cheaha Express Trail is primarily a mountain biking trail, requiring advanced skills if you choose to ride it.
Trail details
- Distance: 39.6 miles (63.7 km)
- Elevation gain: 3826 feet (1166 metres)
- Difficulty: difficult
- Estimated time: 4 hours and 25 minutes
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