Gateway Trail

The Kings Mountain Gateway Trail is one of the top attractions in Kings Mountain, North Carolina, and a great place to get some exercise with your pup. The hilly multi-use trail is pupular with cyclists, trail runners, and people with energetic dogs. The trailhead on South Battleground Avenue has tons of puptastic amenities, including ample parking, human bathrooms, picnic shelters, and trail information.

The Gateway Trail follows the Foote Trail, a five-mile mixed-surface trail, and currently extends beyond it for about two miles for a fourteen-mile round-trip hike. The Gateway Trail is part of the Carolina Thread Trail, an in-development trail network planned to link noteworthy sites throughout the state. When complete, the Gateway Trail will connect to Kings Mountain National Battlefield, Kings Mountain State Park, City Lake, Davidson Lake, Crowders Mountain State Park, and the Overmountain Victory Trail.

Wooden bridges and boardwalks span rushing creeks and streams. A water-filled quarry, Kings Mountain, and Crowder Mountain rise into view as you ascend. You'll even pass through a stand of bamboo! Trail features include lovely overlooks, a butterfly garden, and short trails branching off of the main trail to scenic areas.

Most people who use the trail don't do the full hike, but find a natural stopping point and turn back when they get tired. The gravel surface can be hard on soft puppy paws, so pay attention to your pup as you hike and give them lots of breaks. The trail crosses a few roads, so make sure that you keep your dog on a leash, per trail rules, and close to you as you carefully look both ways and cross. You'll also need to bring your own water and waste bags, and clean up after your dog.

If you and your dog are looking to rack up some miles while enjoying scenic mountain views, make sure you check out the Kings Mountain Gateway Trail.