First Broad River TrailFirst Broad River Trail is currently closed to the public for trail maintenance. Please check back and enjoy the improved trail once work is done.

McDowell Creek Greenway

The McDowell Creek Greenway is a 3.1-mile paved trail that provides access to Birkdale Village in Huntersville, Robbins Park, the Westmoreland Athletic Complex and Magnolia Estates Drive in Cornelius.
Trail Uses
Accessible Experience Walking / hiking / running Paved surface biking
Locations
Cornelius (NC), Huntersville (NC)
Length
3.10 miles, One Way
Difficulty
Easy
Surface
Pavement
Motorized Vehicles
Not Permitted
Fees
No
Pets
Permitted on leash
Parking Spaces
100+
Restrooms
No
Hours
Dawn - Dusk

Description

This 3.1-mile, out-and-back trail is ideal for walking, running, and cycling. The southern half of the paved trail is relatively flat. In addition to being a designated section of the Thread Trail, this segment is also a designated section of the Lake Norman Bike Route. The northern half, opened in 2021, includes a little more terrain. 

The southern half of the trail winds through wetland habitats and an old field, providing a range of habitats for wildlife that make their homes in the surrounding area. Many species of plant inhabit the damp environment. Milkweed, a butterfly attractant, is common along the trail, providing visitors with many opportunities to view colorful butterflies in the warmer months. The northern half is primarily woodlands.

Trail Manager

Visit the Mecklenburg County Parks & Recreation website for more information and a printable trail map or contact

Mecklenburg County
5841 Brookshire Blvd.
Charlotte, NC 28216
980-314-1000
Park-Admin@mecklenburgcountync.gov
View website

Featured Post

Carolina Thread Trail awards $634,000 for trail projects to 7 partners
Carolina Thread Trail awards $634,000 for trail projects to 7 partners
The Carolina Thread Trail announced its 2023 grant awards to seven partners advancing public trails across the Greater Charlotte region, totaling more than $634,000.
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Trail Tips

See and Be Seen
Bring a flashlight or headlamp and wear reflective clothing when out after dark.
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Trailhead Information

Parking Address: 16815 Cranlyn Rd, Birkdale Village, Huntersville 28078. MAP.

Trailhead Location: near Birkdale Village MAP

Trailhead Location: near Westmoreland Athletic Complex MAP

On-street parking along Magnolia Estates Drive in Cornelius, near the trailhead.

Click on an icon to get custom directions
Please Log In or Create Account to add comments.
December 06, 2021
Hi Lisette,

THank you for noting this for other users! We are working to get that new section up on the map as soon as possible.
-Jennifer
lisettereynolds
November 30, 2021
There is a new section to this trail in the green area between Rosalyn Glen Drive and Magnolia Estates which is not on this map
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