Find the top rated running trails in Morganton, whether you're looking for an easy short running trail or a long running trail, you'll find what you're looking for. Click on a running trail below to find trail descriptions, trail maps, photos, and reviews.
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The very beginning in Gilkey, NC to Ruth, NC and then from Harris parking to Forest City are the bests parts of this 13.5 stretch of trail. The parts in middle are mostly Urban and I did see that the maintainers of the Rails to trail are working diligently trying to clean up some sections along with working with businesses along the trail to make it more appealing. We just need more business to step up and do their part. They have their work cut out for them just pass Spindale, NC to the Harris Street parking in Forest City, NC
The trail has been extended a little and is now four (4) miles round trip. It’s pretty level so it’s easy to walk, and wide enough for people to pass each other going the opposite direction. It runs along the South Fork River and has a couple of small dams along the way for possible photo opportunities. Definitely relaxing as the trail is mostly surrounded by trees and nature, and there are several benches along the trail if you need to take a break. It is a natural trail, but has some gravel in a few spots to prevent it from washing out. I’ve seen some people riding mountain bikes on it too. I would definitely recommend this trail to get some exercise, walk your dog (best friend), and enjoy nature.
Great smooth wide trail. 5 big stars for trail condition. This is definitely more of an "urban trail", so those seeking nature will not be very pleased. Although the south end and north end is wooded, most of the trail is along a highway and then through a couple small towns. Very easy pleasant ride, with only a couple "dangerous" road crossings....(a couple of them are a bit blind).
I'm a local. This is NOT a trail. This is a road. A road with no room to meet a bike, much less another vehicle. People live, work and travel this road so if you must bike it, please SHARE the road. I really hate that this road is on this list because it is NOT SAFE. The Virginia Creeper trail located 30 minutes north of us is much better for biking and walking.
Drove up to Spindale, NC from Greenville, SC to ride the Thermal Belt Trail. Well worth the drive! Rode from mile 9 up to mile 0, then back. Nice combination of urban and rural. Especially enjoyed the Bechtler Mint park around mile 2. Will definitely be back, and will ride all of it.
First trail run of my NC citizenship and it was awesome. All paved, beautiful day and beautiful scenery. Will definitely be back. All uphill followed by all downhill. 7.1 round trip.
We are visitors in Asheville and have been trying out different Greenway bike trails over the past week and decided to drive to TN to try this one. The crushed gravel is very fine so isn’t too difficult to ride on with a road bike. The first 4 miles are pretty but after that it runs parallel to a very busy street full of truckers and much traffic and goes by strip malls, many street crossings, etc.. We turned around about 3/4 way into the ride as the street was so unpleasant to ride next to. Was nice to experience it but wouldn’t make the drive to go back. The Thermal Belt Trail in NC was nicer than this for a longer Greenway that’s more scenic. We met some locals there who said there’s a really pretty paved greenway in Kingston TN but we didn’t get a chance to try that one out.
Real scenic. Steady rise. Just the right distance to and from.
The new extension from Westmoreland to Magnolia Ridge (By Publix) is a great addition.
This was our first ride on a rail trail and we loved it. Not crowded at all, smooth surface and beautiful scenery.
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