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.

West Branch Nature Preserve Trail

The West Branch Nature Preserve Trail is a 0.8-mile natural surface trail located at the end of the West Branch Rocky River Greenway in Davidson, NC. The trail winds through 90 acres of wetland that was protected by Mecklenburg County in 2008.
Trail Uses
Walking / hiking / running
Location
Davidson (NC)
Length
0.80 miles, One Way
Difficulty
Easy
Surface
Natural surface
Motorized Vehicles
Not Permitted
Fees
No
Pets
Permitted on leash
Parking Spaces
10
Restrooms
No
Hours
Dawn - Dusk

Description

This natural surface trail extends 0.8 miles one-way, and is suitable for hiking. The trail is on 90 acres of wetland that has been preserved by Mecklenburg County since 2008. The nature trail connects with the West Branch Rocky River Greenway and also features an observation deck for viewing the wetlands. The trail encircling the wetland was named after Roy Alexander to honor his commitment to conservation. 

The wetland surrounding the trail is considered to be one of the most important wetlands in Mecklenburg County. Some species, such as the eastern ribbon snake, are found no where else in Mecklenburg County. Nearly all of the amphibian species native to the Piedmont of North Carolina can be found in the West Branch Nature Preserve. Mature trees surround this trail and provide important habitat for the numerous bird species that occupy the wetlands while also providing ample shade to trail visitors. Beavers live in the wetland and their work is visible on the sides of the trail.

 

Other Information

For additional information, see Mecklenburg County's West Branch Nature Preserve MAP

Trail Manager

Visit Mecklenburg County Parks & Recreation for more information about the West Branch Nature Preserve or contact:

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

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Bring along a small snack in case you get hungry or feel a drop in energy while exercising.
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View Connector Trails
Antiquity Greenway
South Prong Rocky River Greenway/ Southeast Greenway/ Davidson Greenway
West Branch Rocky River Greenway

Trailhead Information

From West Branch Rocky River Greenway

Parking Address:18444-18458 Shearer Rd, Davidson, NC 28036 MAP

Trailhead Location:  MAP

Trailhead Location: Connecting West Branch Rocky River to West Branch Nature Trail MAP

Trailhead Location: West Branch Nature Preserve: MAP

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