Calhoun County boasts of an unbelievable selection of outdoor recreational opportunities. From kayaking and fishing to mountain biking and hiking, Calhoun County is a haven for outdoor enthusiast!
Located approximately 45 minutes from Birmingham and 90 minutes from Atlanta, the county-which includes the cities of Anniston, Oxford, Jacksonville, Hobson City, Piedmont, Ohatchee and Weaver-has the hybrid of relaxation and excitement to make it the place of your dreams.
Discover Calhoun County, Alabama as not only a place to visit, do business, and attend college, but also as a region of progressive communities with strong economies that still retain their small town Southern charm and friendliness. Such appeal makes Calhoun County, Alabama a place one enjoys calling home.
At Visit Calhoun County, the Calhoun County Chamber of Commerce is here to assist you with all of your needs. Not sure where to stay, eat or shop? We are your #1 source of information! Regardless of whether or not you’re planning on visiting for a day or a week, Visit Calhoun County is your one-stop information shop on all things Calhoun County.
Anniston
In 1899, the county seat of Calhoun County moved from Jacksonville to Anniston. More than 100 years later, the community is a bustling center of industry and commerce with more than 24,000 residents. Over the years, city officials and local citizens have done everything possible not only to retain the environmental beauty of the area, while allowing it to thrive economically, but also to preserve its history. The Spirit of Anniston Main Street Program, Inc., a nonprofit organization started in 1993, spearheaded the restoration and revitalization of historic downtown Anniston, with a strong focus on the city's main thoroughfare, Noble Street.
Historical sites include the Freedom Riders Murals at 1031 Gurnee Avenue and the intersection of 9th and Noble Street. Anniston is also home to the Anniston Museum of Natural History and the Berman Museum of World History.
Oxford
Oxford is known as one of Calhoun County's fastest growing residential and commercial cities. It stretches across the county line into neighboring Talladega County. This unique location allows Oxford to have excellent access to the resources in both counties.
Oxford officials have adopted a progressive attitude, implementing a number of city improvements to meet the demands of a growing population, including the construction of a new City Hall and public library. The investment in Oxford's facilities and amenities is part of an ongoing effort to be recognized as "The Crossroads and Retail Capital of Calhoun County," as well as a safe and comfortable place to raise a family. Sites include the Oxford Civic Center and sport complex at Oxford Lake and the new 10.4 million dollar Oxford Performing Arts Center, housing a 1,130 seat auditorium.
Jacksonville
Because of their close proximity, the cities of Jacksonville, Piedmont, & Weaver share a location along the Chief Ladiga Trail. The trail runs west from the Alabama-Georgia border into Piedmont and then south through Jacksonville and Weaver, before ending in Anniston. It is the state's first extended rails-to-trails project and has provided locals with an excellent family-friendly recreational venue, complete with areas for hiking, mountain biking, and more.
In 1834, the town built on land, once Creek Territory, was named Jacksonville for Andrew Jackson.
Also in 1834, Jacksonville began its storied history in education when the town reserved a one-acre square for a schoolhouse. Over the years, the school developed from the Jacksonville Academy into Jacksonville State Teachers College. Today, known as Jacksonville State University, it is one of Alabama's most prestigious institutes of higher education.
Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachians, historic Jacksonville truly lives up to its nickname - the Gem of the Hills with its picturesque neighborhoods, the charm of its public square, it beckons to many. Come for a visit, and prepare to make yourself at home!
Piedmont
In 1888, this area was named Piedmont—meaning 'Foot of the Mountains,’ which was pleasing to the people who enjoyed being nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountain range surrounded
with the scenic beauty of mountains and streams. The City of Piedmont has prime real estate as well as the infrastructure necessary for industrial and commercial growth. This area is home to the Chief Ladiga Trail and Terrapin Creek, perfect for any outdoor adventurer, with the Pinhoti Trail not very far away.
Weaver
Weaver is a very good example of small town life at its best. The City of Weaver is a growing community, with The Chief Ladiga Trail running through the city alongside Elwell Park and on throughout the county, north, towards Jacksonville. There is an Easter Egg Hunt in the spring, a Christmas Parade in December, and the annual Weaver Station Heritage Day Celebration held in the Fall. Come to Weaver and see for yourself that there is a jewel lying at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, and you too will fall in love with the little town that’s a big city at heart.
Hobson City
Fewer than 1,000 people inhabit this small historic town, but its name is larger than life. Hobson City, located directly across from Oxford, was incorporated in 1899 by a small neighborhood of black
citizens when the new mayor of Oxford gerrymandered the residents' homes out of the larger city. The displaced citizens refused to leave the area and simply created a city of their own.
Ohatchee
Ohatchee is located in the northwest corner of Calhoun County and is positioned on the Coosa River. The 2000 census showed that the town had a population of 1,215. It is located along Highway 77, a thoroughfare connecting Talladega, Lincoln, and I-20 to the south with Gadsden and I-59 to the north. Several historic sites are located in the vicinity of Ohatchee including the site of the former Fort Strother at which Gen. Andrew Jackson was headquartered during part of the Creek Indian Wars in the early 1800's and Janney Furnace, which was a pig iron furnace built during the Civil War. Ohatchee's business environment includes fishing and recreational businesses, industrial companies, forestry related businesses, and a small retail and service district.
Turning off 202 onto Coldwater Road, it is evident there is a
climb ahead. The entrance to the original trail head has an immediate incline.
Cyclists know instantly, they’re in for a treat. The gravel parking lot at the
top is often full of tags from across the U.S., Wyoming, Mississippi, New York and Tennessee,
just to name a few. This time of year is a great time to explore Coldwater, with the cooler temperatures, the fall colors and changing leaves, tree shades and refreshing breezes. The trail map, constantly evolving and growing marks the
start. The smooth Baby Bear loop is perfect for the whole family with its
downhill start and sidewinding ending. You can rest when you get back to the
top. The Mama and Papa Bear loops are longer, with their very quick downhill to a consistent
finishing climb. The Bomb Dog is more advanced with river rocks, roots, moguls, tricky
switchback turns, and challenging gradual climbs. This trail system continues to grow
with gravity trails and new additions including the Bunny, the Tortoise, the
Hare and Chilhowee Trails. Runners and hikers are welcome to explore these
trails, but it is suggested with these single tracks that they take the course
backwards, aware of other oncoming traffic.
Coldwater is a beautiful escape into the 4000 acres of Alabama Land
Trust property, wooded, shaded and picturesque. The creek runs along the trail
and can often be heard, especially after a big rain. The trails are well maintained, furnished with signageand perfect with rideable grade and fun features. Coldwater is also
convenient with its location just outside of downtown Anniston. 
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