Silver Comet Trail

My wife and I are 60 years old. We ride our cross bikes 60-80 miles per week. We are traveling around the US to visit all the national parks. Because of our affection for biking we seek out areas with rails to trails bike paths when possible. We recently spent three days exploring various segments of this 60 mile trail. Without a doubt it is the nicest trail we have ever ridden. It is a very nice mix of urban and rural scenery. There are numerous rest areas along the way many with clean safe bathrooms. Additionally the state of Alabama has added 30 miles of trail that connects with the silver comet at the state line giving you 90 miles of wonderful trail to ride. If you love riding on smooth paved paths with easy grades this one is a must do.

The Silver Comet Trail follows the bed of the old Seaboard Air Line. From 1947 to 1969, the shiny Silver Comet passenger train provided luxury service between New York and Birmingham.
Today's Silver Comet runs from Smyrna all the way to Esom Hill. The eastern section runs through residential areas, including housing developments with private trail access. The western section is more bucolic, a mixed landscape of pine stands and farmland.
Trail highlights include several relics of its railroading past. At Mile Marker 23, the Pumpkinvine Creek Trestle stands 100 feet high and 700 feet long. At Mile Marker 30.8, the Brushy Mountain Tunnel goes through 700 feet of damp, dark corridor.
Length: 61.5 miles
Trail end points: Smyrna (Mavell Road) to State Line Gateway Park
Trail surfaces: Concrete
Info: http://www.traillink.com/trail/silver-comet-trail.aspx