Feb 20, 2019

forrestGastonia, North Carolina, is abundant with historic attractions, blooming flowers, and peaceful hiking trails. Enjoy a relaxing stroll through the beautiful city at one of these great walking trails.

Lineberger Park

Lineberger Park has been a popular outdoor destination in the Gastonia area since the 1920s. The park is just a few blocks from downtown Gastonia and offers over 18.5 acres of green outdoor space. The Avon Creek runs through the park, giving you waterfront views along your walk. Within the park, you will also find public restrooms, water fountains, a basketball court, picnic shelters, and an outdoor pool. The Gaston County Vietnam War Memorial midway also runs through the park, honoring the fallen Gastonia soldiers from the Vietnam War

8th Street Greenway

If you are limited on time but still want to enjoy the outdoors, check out the 8th Street Greenway. The trail is just a short drive out of Gastonia and begins at North Loop Road. It runs for a half mile, looping through mature trees and into the Bakers Creek Park. The asphalt-paved trail is flat and perfect for all ages. Once you reach the park, you will have access to public restrooms, tennis courts, and even a mini-golf course.

Avon & Catawba Creeks Greenway

The Avon & Catawba Creeks Greenway is a handicap-accessible, 3.0-mile trail that begins north of the Catawba Creek Bridge. The Greenway is popular among skaters, cyclists, joggers, and walkers. The trail is right in Gastonia and runs through grassy parkland and quiet picnic spots before coming to an end at Ferguson Park. Along the way, you will see blooming flowers, native wildlife, and flowing creek waters. The Catawba Creek trail also runs by the Municipal Golf Course.

Highland Rail Trail

The Highland Rail Trail is a great spot to check out if you enjoy North Carolina history. The 1.5-mile-long trail runs along the Carolina and Northwestern Railway. This historical railroad was in operation until January of 1974, connecting Downtown Gastonia to Rankin Lake Park. Although the railway is no longer active, it is a cool place to walk. You will find skaters, cyclists, joggers, and walkers on the Highland Rail Trail from dawn until dusk.

Crowders Mountain

If you are looking for more of a walking challenge, try out Crowders Mountain. Crowders Mountain is just a short drive from Gastonia in Kings Mountain. The 5,096-acre park has eight additional trails geared toward all different ages and skill levels. The Family Camping Trail is just 0.2 miles long, while the Ridgeline Trail runs for 6.2 miles through the Kings Mountain State Park and the Kings Mountain National Military Park.

You can climb mountain peaks as high as 800 feet or view the city below on one of the rocky ledges. The wheelchair-accessible park also offers picnic shelters and fishing piers.

The Gastonia, North Carolina, area has many wonderful trails to explore. Whether you prefer strolling along a historic railroad or pushing yourself to the limit on a 6.2-mile mountain hike, you are sure to find something you enjoy.

Image via Flickr by gurdonark/ Under use CC BY 2.0