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Print Friendly MapClosure notice: Due to Hurricane Helene, the Erwin Linear Trail is temporarily closed.
Overview
The Erwin Linear Trail (a.k.a. the Erwin Greenway) parallels I-26 along North Indian Creek and Nolichucky waterways for 4.3 miles. The trail is paved and mostly flat, coursing through the Cherokee National Forest northwest of Banner Hill.
About the Route
The trail traverses a variety of environments, from winding through the wooded areas and past natural ponds and wetlands lakes along the northern end of the route, changing into light industrial areas on the western edge of the town of Erwin.
As the trail enters the center of Erwin, the trail once again transitions out of its wooded environment and passes by a local McDonald's and other chain establishments. South of here, the trail once again leaves that urban environment and heads south past Bark Park (185 N Industrial Dr), before reaching its southern endpoint along Jackson Love Hgwy.
The Erwin Linear Trail runs between Fishery Park Rd. (Erwin) and Jackson Love Hgwy. (Erwin).
Parking is also available at:
See TrailLink Map for more detailed directions.
This trail has a lot of potential but it needs to be updated. The asphalt has so many buckles and is dangerous because many people have tripped and fallen. The bridge has been closed for over a year with no promise of upgrades. Therefore one begins on the trail then gets on a road for half a mile and back on trail.
Very pleasant trail (bike riders). Was bumpy but would take that for asphalt any day. A little narrower than others but still very doable. Excellent scenery and moderate rise and falls. Will definitely do this again! 4.5 stars.
I loved the winding nature and the beautiful scenery! Only downside was very bumpy areas where the pavement came up. But loved the ride!
There was a significant amount of buckled asphalt on this trail. Thus the reason for the low rating. The water was pretty at some points and nasty at others. Again, low rating. It was not an enjoyable trail for us as we desire more scenic routes. We parked and traveled toward The Jonesborough trailhead. When at the end, the trail was closed at the bridge.
There are too many bikes and today I encountered a couple on motor scooters. Signs say motorized vehicles are prohibited but there is no enforcement.
The bridge work is done (June 2021). Whole length of trail is currently passable and in great shape.
Great little trail. In excellent condition and with beautiful scenery. Very easy parking and there is a store across the street. It's a bit short but if you go one way and back that's eight miles and it's pleasant enough you could even turn it into 16 miles without getting bored.
I was so pleasantly surprised by this trail. It is paved and in great condition. There is a dog park, play ground, and restrooms. Also, very easy to access off of I-26. I will definitely return!!
Wifey crashed going around a pole in the middle of the trail. Bridge closed at one point, so didn’t get to see the whole thing.
Son and I got off at exit 40 and parked at the parking lot at the industrial park. We rode to the end and back which is roughly about 8.5 miles. Very easy ride, nice scenery with bridges, benches, picnic areas, etc. Close to the other end, there's a McDonalds and convenient store you can easily access for whatever you may want to rehydrate with. Yes, a decent amount of it gets close to I-26, but it doesn't seem obtrusive to me. Plenty of trees, streams, birds, and it wasn't crowded even on a Sunday afternoon. Great for biking, walking, and running.
This small town made the most of a wetland adjacent to the highway. It is mostly shady with benches, ponds or creeks alongside. Many gaggles of goslings and loads of turtles to watch. Excellent leg-stretching break when traveling through the area!
This is a walking/biking trail. If you are walking with friends you can easily have a conversation as it is primarily flat. Mostly you will enjoy a natural setting of ponds, streams and woods. There are short stretches where you will walk behind homes, next to fast food joints and past light industrial areas. No problem it is a short time. The park is 4 miles from one end to another.
If you are browsing the TL maps and info for places to ride, then you will want to ride this one. This trail offers 4 miles of shear pleasure. We loved the areas of wetland scenery and the shaded woodland areas (reminded us of the Hilton Head S.C. trails). Directions in the description are a little confusing. Traveling I-26 north, take exit #36, then turn right off the ramp, then the first road on the right. There is a small parking area designated for bikers. You can also connect at the South end of the trail with a much larger parking area by taking exit #40. ENJOY!
This trail is shady most of the way, and peaceful. I enjoy it walking and biking on it.
The First mile ( starting off exit 36 ) is walking behind peoples houses. Travels the Interstate so don't expect any quiet time. Unless you are looking to go running this trail I would not suggest it
Something for all ages and all fitness levels. Beautiful views.
Trail is suitable for walking or biking. With outstanding scenery and views of Appalachian mountains. It is lit by traditional style lamp posts with benches throughout. About half way thru there is a comfort station complete with a playground and picnic tables. You may also park across from the local mc donalds for an ice cream after your walk. A certain destination if traveling near area. Also river rafting and tubing, camping and cabins within 5 miles. Bike rental at nearby outfitters.
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