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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.
The *Emerald Necklace* is an effort to link greenways and local streets into a continuous loop through the northern part of Mecklenburg County, primarily around Cornelius and Davidson. The concept is excellent—creating a connected network for cyclists and walkers—but the current experience is a mix of enjoyable greenway riding and more challenging on-road navigation. Your enjoyment will largely depend on your comfort level riding on streets. At some point in the future, the western portion of the system is expected to connect with a greenway extending to Huntersville.
Riders should be prepared for sections that transition onto streets, some of which are busy or narrow. There are also several crossings at high-traffic intersections that require caution. Currently, connecting the eastern and western portions of the Necklace requires riding along very busy Catawba Avenue or Sam Furr Road, which may be uncomfortable for some cyclists.
To make the experience more enjoyable, we’ve found it best to ride the Necklace in sections rather than attempting the full loop at once, thereby avoiding some of the more difficult road segments. Signage and naming can also be confusing—for example, the trail beginning at Shearer Road is referred to by different names on various maps, making navigation less intuitive. And the signs on the street along this route and small and easy to miss.
On our most recent outing, we completed an out-and-back ride on the South Prong Rocky River Greenway, traveling from Shearer Road to the River Run Athletic Field. Much of this segment follows neighborhood streets rather than a dedicated greenway. While the River Run area is quite lovely, the bike lanes are in need of repainting, and signage directing riders from one street to another is minimal or nonexistent.
Parking is available at various points along the route, but locating access points can be challenging. It is helpful to download a trail map in advance:
[https://www.carolinathreadtrailmap.org/trails/trail/south-prong-rocky-river-greenway]
The terrain in this section is notably hilly, adding an extra level of challenge to the ride.
**Overall:**
A promising and scenic concept that still needs improved signage, clearer mapping, and safer, more consistent bike infrastructure to fully realize its potential.
This trail the was nice but clearly intended for residents only. Businesses around it with signage stating “not trail parking.” Little to no parking access for non residents. Construction on trail but detours from the trail side are poorly marked but seem to be well marked in the residential areas surrounding. Trail is really several trails with one area not accessible to the other. Not sure why it is listed as “a” trail. Should be two. If you can access it you will enjoy it but good luck. We tried multiple points and spoke to people on it that did not have any good recommendations.
My wife and I had fun. Beautiful scenery and wildlife! Our first trail, so our butts are a little sore. 7 miles is a good starting trail length.
Been on this trail for many years and it is increasingly hostile to rollerbladers. You are either almost getting run over by the bikers or almost being bitten by a dog who's owner can't handle them correctly. Used to be a good flat spot to rollerblade but its gone down hill because the people who are on have become exceptionally rude.
It's so bumpy and jarring you cannot get a rhythm. Do not recommend
Can make a 10 mike loop using several trails plus ride a couple surface streets. Very nice loop.
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