Explore the Ecusta Trail

A Town and Country Trail for All

A new six-mile paved trail from downtown Hendersonville to the rural community of Horse Shoe has people of all ages cycling, jogging, strolling and dog-walking on a former railway bed.

The wide and flat Ecusta Trail is a game-changer for outdoor enthusiasts in Western North Carolina. It showcases both urban and rural settings while connecting with shops, eateries, coffee houses, breweries and parks. For points of interest along the trail, click here.

Outside the city limits, the landscape changes to pine forests, bamboo groves, pasture land and the rippling waters of Shaw Creek, with the peak of Mount Pisgah visible in the distance. Eventually, this rails-to-trail project will stretch 19.4 miles from Hendersonville to Brevard.

Popular entrance points include the Hendersonville trailhead at the Main Street Welcome Center, which provides parking, restrooms, a water bottle fill station, and info about trail features and nearby attractions.

Another entrance point is Lennox Station, a former industrial complex about a mile from the Main Street trailhead. Lennox Station has been converted into a hub of activity including two restaurants, a brewery, fresh food market and playground. Bike rentals, including e-bikes, are provided at the station by Venture Ecusta.

The Ecusta Trail began life in the early 20th century as a railway line carrying passengers and freight through North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains. Now, after sitting dormant for many years, this once-forgotten corridor has found new life as a scenic greenway — leading to unforgettable journeys and unique experiences.

More than just a walking and biking path for all ages and abilities, the Ecusta Trail offers a fun way for visitors to enjoy Hendersonville. Start the adventure in our lively downtown, then let the trail lead you into the beauty of Western North Carolina.

New to the Ecusta Trail experience? Sign up below for a digital trail pass that guides you to points of interest and allows you to earn points for trail merchandise.