Some trails take you somewhere. Others connect you to something bigger. The Carolina Thread Trail does both—and Hickory is part of the story.
Spanning 15 counties across North and South Carolina, the Carolina Thread Trail is a growing network of greenways, trails, and blueways designed to link people, places, and communities. There are more than 425 miles of trails and 170 miles of blueway already open to the public, with a long-term vision of over 1,600 miles of connected pathways. Consider this your invitation to get outside and see more of the region—one mile at a time.
Launched in 2007 and led by Catawba Lands Conservancy, the Thread Trail is built on connection, bringing communities together, protecting natural spaces, and creating access to the outdoors for people of all ages and backgrounds. It’s also doing more than you might expect, supporting local economies and helping preserve the places that make this area worth exploring in the first place.
Here in Catawba County, that vision is already in motion. With 126.6 miles planned and 28.6 miles completed, the county is steadily carving out its piece of the Thread Trail. There are 27 trail experiences across the area, each offering a different way to get outside—whether you’re in the mood for a quick walk, a scenic ride, or time on the water. No overthinking required—just pick a path and go. Want to see what’s nearby? Click here to explore the trails in our area.
One standout is Murray’s Mill Historic Site, where history and nature come together along a peaceful walking trail surrounding a preserved 19th-century mill. It’s the kind of place where you can slow down, take a breath, and take in a quieter side of Hickory. Across the area, local greenways and trail segments continue to grow, making it easier than ever to step outside and stay awhile.
The Carolina Thread Trail isn’t just one trail—it’s a network that keeps expanding, with each new mile opening the door to something new. In Hickory, that means more ways to explore, more places to wander, and more reasons to get outside. Start here, and see where it takes you.
Photo Credit: Historical Association of Catawba County
