Explore Elkin Trails
Located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Elkin North Carolina is a small town with a lot to offer. On top of its countless wineries, historic streets, and tasty restaurants, the natural beauty of Elkin and its growing trails are one of its greatest assets. Over the years, Elkin has become a trail town as the Elkin area trails have grown thanks to hard work from the community and members of the Elkin Valley Trails Association.
The Mountains-to-Sea Trail, a 1175-mile trail for hiking and backpacking that traverses North Carolina from the Great Smoky Mountains to the Outer Banks, runs right through the heart of Elkin’s downtown. This trail is as diverse as our state, spanning between the mountains, rolling hills of farmland, historical towns, pine forests, and miles of seashore. Whether you are a local, a visitor, or a long-distance hiker, the MST section in Elkin does not disappoint.
A Trailhead to The National Historic Overmountain Victory Trail can also be found in Elkin. This historic trail marks the path taken by the Revolutionary War Overmountain Men who were patriots that fought in the Battle of Kings Mountain in 1780 in South Carolina.
The beautiful Yadkin River "Blue Water Trail" runs close to Elkin’s main street. This river allows for a perfect excursion for fishers, kayakers, and canoers. There are multiple access points located along the river. The area is also home to various water outfitters who provide canoes, kayaks, and equipment for a mostly gentle and peaceful family float.
Elkin is also home to a mountain bike trail, the picturesque Carter Falls on the Grassy Creek Trail, and the charming E&A Rail Trail. Trails, as well as parks in town such as the Elkin Municipal Park and Crater Park, are open for a fun way to explore Elkin. All of these local trails are celebrated annually at the North Carolina Trail Days Festival, held the first weekend in June. It has taken time and a great deal of hard work, but our town is blessed with the opportunity to experience all of these amazing trails.
The area trails work to highlight the beauty in our community and provide visitors with the opportunity to explore and find their trail in Elkin.