Overmountain Victory Trail

History and the outdoors come together on the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail, so don't miss this one if you enjoy learning about the past and spending time outside with your pupper! Stretching over 300 miles through the states of South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia, this extensive trail travels through two National Forests, four NPS areas, several state and county parks, and an Army Corps of Engineers Dam & Reservoir as it follows the route used by the Overmountain men and patriot militia during the Battle of Kings Mountain in 1780.

The Overmountain Victory Trail consists of a Commemorative Motor Route, which utilizes existing state highways marked with the trail logo; 87 miles of walkable pathways; wayside exhibits; and affiliated museums and historic sites. Points of interest include the Kings Mountain National Military Park in South Carolina, the site of the momentous Battle of Kings Mountain; Greenlee Ford and the Catawba River in Morganton, North Carolina, which 1,400 militiamen crossed on their way to the battle; the Pemberton Oak in Elizabethton, Tennessee, a historic tree under which Colonel John Pemberton gathered his command; and the Muster Grounds in Abingdon, Virginia, the northernmost trailhead and site of an annual historical reenactment.

Whichever part of the route you and Fido visit, be sure to observe good trail petiquette by keeping your pooch leashed at all times and cleaning up after them. Bring plenty of water, especially during the summer when it's hot and humid. The trail welcomes visitors all year round, with the Commemorative Motor Route being accessible at all hours and the non-motorized pathways being available from sunrise to sunset. If you're planning to include a historic site, park, or museum in your trip, these are generally open from 9 AM to 5 PM, but check first to see if your dog can tag along. Travel back in time when you and your furry pal hit the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail!