Explore the best rated trails in Elkin, NC, whether you're looking for an easy walking trail or a bike trail like the Yadkin River Trail and Salem Creek Greenway . With more than 24 trails covering 172 miles you're bound to find a perfect trail for you. Click on any trail below to find trail descriptions, trail maps, photos, and reviews.
Enjoyed this ride through downtown Hickory. You do have to cross streets several times and switch sides of the road but it is all doable. It is a rather short trail, although it appears construction is under way to connect this trail to the Riverwalk Trail on the Catawba River which will really make a nice length.
FYI as of 9/28/26 the green cove parking lot is closed. We were vacationing and followed the information provided on the app which was unfortunately incorrect. We found the parking lot in Damascus that was open and rode to Abingdon and back. My husband wasn’t ready for the incline of the ride but made it, despite cramping up and being grumpy. I thought it was a pretty nice ride.
Rented bikes locally in Damascus from Blue Blaze. The ride was beyond our expectations. Rolling countryside through farms was breathtaking. Will return once other half of trail has had repairs completed. Highly recommend!
Great trail! Day 1 rode a out and back from Fries to Galax 33 miles.
Absolutely beautiful ride! Loved all the long wooden trestle bridges and the gorgeous views. Trail was in excellent condition. I’ve ridden many trails throughout the USA and this one is definitely top 10. The only bummer was that the other 20 miles of the trail are still closed due to damage from Hurricane Helene. As soon as that section is repaired I’m definitely coming back to ride from White Mountain to Damascus.
A delightful, albeit short, trail in Elkin, NC.
We stopped to check out this trail on our way south after riding the longer New River Trail State Park rail trail, and we're glad we did. Even though it is only 1.8 miles long (3.6 miles round trip), it was a fun ride featuring a dam, two bridges, two underpasses, and excellent interpretive signage.
The trail surface is more sandy than crushed stone, with a few gentle inclines. There is plenty of parking, although a few additional restroom facilities would be a welcome addition. Be sure to bring your own water; if there were any drinking fountains, I didn't see them.
Even on a Thursday morning, the trail was busy with walkers and dog owners enjoying the beautiful surroundings. While this is not a trail I would drive a long distance specifically to ride, it makes an excellent stop when traveling to or from one of the area's longer trail systems.
The trail currently comes to an abrupt end, and I hope it is extended someday. For those seeking a little more adventure, there is a mountain bike trail branching off the main route, along with at least one hiking trail.
I highly recommend this trail if you're in the area. It would have earned five stars from me if it had been a bit longer.
The Creeper Trail is still one of my favorite trails. I love riding it from the Abington end and from the Damascus trailhead. Both are absolutely beautiful and well worth the trip.
Rode the entire trail over two days April 2026. Exceptionally well maintained trail and beautiful scenery throughout. Trail was well packed and very easy to ride. Kudos to the staff who maintain the trail.
As an extension to our ride on the Salem Lake Trail, we rode this greenway to add some extra miles. In my opinion, it’s a bit of a mixed bag.
The greenway itself is fairly narrow, and the pavement is rough in places and in need of repair. That said, the planners did a good job minimizing at-grade crossings, which helps keep the ride moving smoothly.
At one point, the trail closely follows Salem Creek and includes a fun water crossing. Be aware, though, that in this section there is a damaged concrete area where the trail narrows to a single pass—use caution when navigating through.
We rode as far as Central Park, though the greenway continues beyond that point.
The trail is mostly dirt, sand, and gravel, but it’s wide enough that passing walkers, runners, or other cyclists is easy. A few sections have been recently repaired with large gravel, so you’ll need to ride carefully in those areas.
There’s a lovely mix of sun and shade, along with cool breezes that make it feel far removed from populated areas. Parking is ample at the marina, though more limited at the Linville Road access. Both locations offer restroom facilities.
Part of the trail runs alongside Linville Road but remains completely separated from traffic. There are several hills, including a steep one near the marina. That section is paved, but unfortunately the asphalt is narrow and somewhat broken along one edge.
Near the marina, you can connect to the Salem Creek Greenway to extend your ride.
Definitely a trail I plan to return to.
Hands down our favorite trail. We’ve hiked the entire trail (not all at once) and biked it end to end, and no section ever disappoints—no matter the season.
An added bonus is the park’s occasional van tours. Options include routes from Cliffview to Foster Falls and from Foster Falls to Pulaski. These guided tours offer wonderful insight into the area’s history and the former rail line.
Be sure to check the park’s website for tour details.
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