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Print Friendly MapAbout 12 miles north of Charlotte, the McDowell Creek Greenway links the communities of Huntersville and Cornelius and is included in the Emerald Necklace trail loop. The paved, 1.6-mile route is also part of the larger Carolina Thread Trail, a regional network that will connect 15 counties across two states.
At the southern end of the greenway is the Birkdale Village Shopping Center, a great place to shop or grab a bite to eat. As the trail makes its way north, its busy urban surroundings give way to lake views, meadows, and trees.
Parking is available midway along the trail at the Westmoreland Road trailhead (17123 Doe Valley Ct, Cornelius) and in several lots at the southern end of the trail in the Birkdale Village Shopping Center (8925 Townley Rd, Huntersville).
Saturday afternoon ride on a bright November day. Surprisingly limited number of cyclists, walkers, runners, & strollers. Entered at Birkdale Village Trailhead. Congested area. Suggest trying Catawba Road instead. Shaded trail with elevation changes and some crossings.
The section from Magnolia Dr to NC 73 is about 3 miles.
The new extension from Westmoreland to Magnolia Ridge (By Publix) is a great addition.
Walked the trail today and enjoyed the scenery, will def do again
The trial is located beside the movie theater in Birkdale/ Huntersville. Nice paved trail. You can continue on the sidewalks to the park and extend your ride. Enjoyable 1.5 mile ride each way!
This is definitely a good trail for the jogger or biker or even if you are just looking for a random stroll. It is about a mile and a half long with pavement the whole way. There are a few little ponds that have ducks and there are benches scattered throughout. If you are bringing your dog with you on the trail, make sure you bring plenty of poop bags because there are no pet stations to clean up after your pooch. Birkdale Village is at the end of the trail so you can go catch a movie or something to eat.
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