South Fork River Rail Trail

Amenities: Information Available, Biking, Hiking

Unique Features: This approximately 1-mile public trail within a 324-acre privately owned preserve is protected by a conservation easement with Catawba Lands Conservancy. The trail follows the South Fork of the Catawba River with scenic views of the river, rock outcrops, and an historic mill dam. A bald cypress swamp borders the trail for a short distance.

Habitats: Floodplain Forest, Upland Forest, Wetland

Seasonal Information: Spring wildflowers and mountain laurels peak mid-April to mid-May.

Directions: From Interstate 85, Exit 17. Travel U.S. 321 North approximately 9 miles to Exit 20. Turn left at the bottom of the ramp onto S.R. 155/U.S. 321 Business North (becomes Aspen Street) and travel approximately 2.7 miles. Turn left onto Southside Road and travel approximately 0.3 miles until it becomes South Fork Road. Continue to travel straight on South Fork Road until reaching a stop sign. Turn right onto Laboratory Road and cross the South Fork River. The trail parking lot is on the right, immediately after crossing the river.

South Fork River Rail Trail Map

Hours: Open daily sunrise to sunset.

Contact Information:
Catawba Lands Conservancy
105 West Morehead Street, Suite B
Charlotte, NC 28202
704-342-3330
www.catawbalands.org