8 Great Hikes for Fall Color in Gaston County

Kayla Adams
Sep 15
3 min read

Updated: Nov 12

Peak color for this area is soon to arrive, so make your plans now for a weekend getaway, hit the trails, feel the fresh fall air, and enjoy nature’s beauty in Gaston County.

TRAILS IN GASTON COUNTY

Autumn trees with vibrant red, orange, and yellow leaves reflecting in a calm lake. A wooden dock juts into the water under a clear blue sky.

1: The Lake Loop at Crowders Mountain State Park

The views of the Lake Loop Trail at Crowders Mountain are quite lovely with every turn offering something new to behold. This short eighth of a mile loop is made of natural terrain and circles the full perimeter of the lake. To access, either park at the lake and follow signs from the Sparrow Springs entrance or you can park at the visitor center and hike the Turn Back Trail to Fern Trail.

Mother and child walk across a black bridge in a park. Background features green and red foliage, lampposts, and hanging banners.

2: Goat Island Park in Cramerton

Goat Island Park, in the middle of the South Fork River, is a popular stop for visitors. The island is full of activities: 18-hole disc golf course, dog park, fishing pier, permanent ping-pong tables and cornhole boards. A Carolina Thread Trail greenway runs east-west through the park with a bridge connecting the island to downtown.

Sunset over a lake with a wooden dock, kayaks, and small boats. Trees silhouette the horizon. Warm orange and yellow hues dominate the scene.

3: Rankin Lake Park in Gastonia

A 1.5-mile paved walking trail rims the 80-acre lake at Rankin Lake Park, complete with fishing pier and boat dock. Canoes, kayaks, johnboats and pedal boats are available to rent. A clubhouse and several picnic shelters allow for group events.

Rocky cliff overlooks a vast autumn landscape with vibrant red and orange trees. Bright foliage and clouds create a serene, scenic view.

4: Stunning Views at Crowders Mountain

Climb rugged peaks from the Ridgeline Trail rising 800 feet above the surrounding countryside and 1,600 feet above sea level. Rocky ledges and outcrops are the perfect seats from which to view the panorama below. A visit to Crowders Mountain might include hiking more than 20 miles of hiking trails, rock climbing, backcountry camping, picnicking and fishing. Additional features include a visitors center with restrooms and exhibit hall.

Mountain bike on a leaf-covered trail in a sunlit autumn forest, surrounded by trees with yellow and orange leaves, creating a peaceful scene.

5: George Poston Park at Spencer Mountain

Situated at the base of Spencer Mountain, one of Gaston County's "pop-up" mountains, George Poston Park features 13 miles of trails that meander throughout the park, winding around a lake, a river, and offering a climb up Spencer Mountain.

Cyclist in maroon shirt rides along a wooded trail, passing a sign reading "Carolina Thread Trail" with green foliage in the background.

6: McAdenville Greenway Park in Mcadenville

The McAdenville Greenway Park is a paved trail that runs parallel to the South Fork of the Catawba River in McAdenville, NC, for .8 miles. This trail offers hikers the opportunity to enjoy great views of the South Fork River that can be easily accessed from downtown Mcadenville. Unload and hop on the trail.

Tranquil lakeside scene with trees and tall grass, under a cloudy sky. Reflective water, greenery, and path create a peaceful atmosphere.

7: Nature Trails at Daniel Stowe Conservancy

Have you been out to visit the beautiful Garden Trails? Discover 3.2 miles of walking trails, including the Persimmon Trail , Duke Kimbell Trail, and the Meadowwood Walk ! These trails provide not only beautiful scenery, but the chance to connect with nature.

Sign for Tuckaseege Park in a lush, green setting with trees. Text reads "Connecting Community & Nature." Stone base supports the sign.

8: Catawba Riverfront Greenway in Mount Holly

This 1.2-mile paved greenway connects to 0.7-mile paved loop in Tuckaseege Park and 0.3-mile paved segment at the Municipal Complex. The greenway works its way along the picturesque Catawba River between the two trailheads. From the Municipal Complex trailhead, you can easily walk along Catawba Avenue sidewalks for 0.3-miles to downtown Mount Holly where there are shopping and dining options.

Fall is a great time to plan a trip

Make the most of your next getaway by visiting Gaston County and exploring our trails. Check out our fall travel guide for even more things to do in Gaston County.

FALL GUIDE