Highland Rail Trail

The Highland Rail Trail was constructed along the historic Carolina and Northwestern Railway. This paved trail links downtown Gastonia with Sims Legion Park, and extends north to Bulb Avenue.
Trail Uses
Walking / hiking / running Paved surface biking
Location
Gastonia (NC)
Length
1.8 miles, One Way
Difficulty
Easy
Surface
Gravel/Crushed stone, Pavement
Motorized Vehicles
Not Permitted
Fees
No
Pets
Permitted on leash
Restrooms
No
Hours
Dawn - Dusk

Description

The Highland Rail Trail is a ten foot wide, paved surface trail constructed along the historic Carolina and Northwestern Railway. This urban trail meanders through residential neighborhoods and industrial areas, linking downtown Gastonia with Sims Legion Park and beyond. The Carolina Thread Trail sign marks one entrance to the trail at the intersection of Broad Street and Long Avenue. From this point, the trail continues northwest past Sims Legion Park toward I-85. The paved trail ends just short of Rankin Lake Road. There is a gravel path which connects Rankin Lake Road to the paved surface of the Highland Rail Trail.

Points of interest along the trail include Sims Legion Park Baseball Fields, Highland School of Technology, access to Erwin Neighborhood Center along Davidson Avenue, access to downtown Gastonia as well as the Farmer's Market on Long Avenue.

Other Information

Gaston County Bike Share is now available at Highland Rail Trail. Follow the link for more information - http://bike.zagster.com/gogaston/

Trail Manager

Visit the City of Gastonia online for more information or contact:

City of Gastonia
PO Box 1748
Gastonia, NC 28053
704-866-6839
recreation@cityofgastonia.com
View website

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Trail Tips

Ride Safe
When biking, wear a helmet and use a bell to signal your approach to other trail users. Consider bringing a spare tube and pump so that you can fix a flat tire and offer help to other cyclists in need. When riding on roads, bike in the same direction as traffic.
Legend
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View Connector Trails
Highland Rail Trail - Downtown Sidewalk Connection

Trailhead Information

Parking Address: Gastonia Police Department, 200 E Long Ave, Gastonia, NC 28052 MAP

Trailhead Location: MAP

Additional Directions: Parking is also available thoughout downtown Gastonia.

Click on an icon to get custom directions
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