Hiking Boone’s Greenway Trail
Boone offers so much when it comes to outdoor exploration. From hiking and mountain biking to braving the river rapids or fishing on a scenic stream, there’s so much to choose from. For hiking specifically, Boone has plenty of trails to challenge experienced hikers or to mesmerize casual hikers looking to take in the scenery. Hiking is one of the best ways to view the beauty of Boone. For a relaxed hiking experience, traverse the Greenway Trail.
About the Greenway Trail
The Greenway Trail, formally known as the Lee & Vivian Reynolds Greenway, is within one of Boone’s three public parks. The paved trail is perfect for walking, running, biking and more. Pack a picnic and stop along your walk for a lunch at one of the shelters or picnic tables. The trail ranges from more urban, near the Southgate Shopping Center, to a hidden gem in nature.
The total trail is less than four-miles long, making it easy enough for everyone to enjoy. Bring the whole family, even the dog, to get a glimpse of Boone’s natural setting.
Views along the Greenway Trail
The entire trail runs from one end of Boone to the other, following across the South Fork of the New River. Those who explore the trail will pass by open meadows and through shaded forests. Cross the covered bridges to view the shimmering mountain streams.
Along the Greenway Trail, you’ll also find remnants of historic artifacts. These stone ruins are the remains of a hydroelectric generation station that provided the first electricity to Boone from 1915–1924.
Stop and read the posted displays to learn more about the area’s history. The benches along the trail are the perfect place for observing the wildlife and beautiful flowers.
More Information about the Greenway Trail
Picnic areas and shelters are first-come, first-served and cannot be reserved.
Greenway Trail Parking
For those who plan on driving to the Greenway Trail, the best parking can be found at the Clawson Burnley Park. From there, you will find two accesses to the trail.
Getting to the Greenway Trail
The Greenway Trail has several trail heads to access the path. The most popular trailheads can be found near the Watauga County Recreation Complex and the Clawson Burnley Park. On the opposite end of the trail, you can access Greenway Trail from beside the Boone Wastewater Treatment Plant. Parking can be found here as well.
Be sure to follow the mile markers on the Greenway Trail map to see how far you’ll go from each trail head.
Click here for the Greenway Trail map.
Watch this video to learn more about Boone’s Greenway Trail
