The National Recreation Trail in Kings Mountain State Park is marked by a blue blaze throughout the 16-mile loop trail. Carolina Thread Trail segment is 1.6-mile that connects to the red blaze of the Ridgeline Trail that will take you north to Crowders Mountain or continue on west to the visitor's center at the Kings Mountain Military Park to learn the history of the Revolutionary War Battle site. There is a beautiful dam created by the Lake Crawford near the parking.

This trail is planned to connect the City of Kings Mountain to Crowders Mountain State Park, Kings Mountain State Park and Kings Mountain National Military Park. Hikers and bikers can enjoy the 8 miles of trail, 5 of which are designated Thread Trail, which is comprised of crushed stone, boardwalk, and sidewalk. The trail is ADA compliant. The Kings Mountain Gateway Trail parking lot and trailhead features a restroom/office facility, a bike rack and kiosk, and a picnic shelter that includes nine picnic tables and two large grills. There is also an interpretive nature trail for children to explore.

Kings Mountain Gateway Trail's trailhead is located on a one acre site about ½ of a mile south of Downtown Kings Mountain and is connected to downtown via sidewalks. The Carolina Thread Trail starts in the downtown of Kings Mountain, runs through the Kings Mountain Gateway Trail parking lot, on to the entrance of the Rail Trail at the Gateway and then turns right onto the loop trail then right again onto the Foote Trail that heads south to I-85 and on past to Galilee Church Road. The new section of trail on the south side of I-85 is great for flat surface walking and biking. You can park at the trail entrance at the end of Industrial Drive just off of hwy. 161. Go south over I-85 and Industrial Drive is to the right.

The trail will preserve the natural beauty of Kings Mountain and provide a place for nature exploration, education in science and history, and a venue for community events and family celebrations.