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Print Friendly MapThe South Carthage Rail Trail runs between the Smith County Agricultural Center and downtown South Carthage along Old Highway 53. It follows the former Carthage Branch of the Tennessee Central Railroad, built in 1888, and offers scenic countryside views. The path is wide and paved with an easy grade.
The South Carthage Rail Trail runs between 50 Cookeville Hwy (Carthage) and 405-499 S Main St. (Brush Creek), with parking available at either end.
Please see TrailLink Map for detailed directions.
The trail is a super easy, enjoyable walk. Not a lot to see along the way, but plenty of fresh air.
Carthage is one of the most charming towns in Middle Tennessee, but this trail--lacking views of the river--wasn't much to talk about it.
The trail is paved with no steep grades, and I think it would be a great place to roller blade or for kids to bike. We walked it in May, and the honey suckle and other flowers made it a delight to our senses.
We began at the Save-Way and walked south. There is a street to the west side of the trail, but the left is meadows and woodland. I spotted a bluebird, but not many other signs of fauna.
I can't wait to get back to Carthage again, but I hope to hike along the river--or kayak it. I can't think of a reason why I would take this trail again.
Rode our bike there today. very short and easy . Good smooth trail bit boring, hopeful it is the beginning of something larger and nicer down the road.
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