Just past the suburban grasp of Charlotte and just before you start to make out the shape of the mountains on the horizon, nestled so nicely in between, you’ll find Downtown Lincolnton. Main Street is anchored by the stately court house and rolling out from the court house in either direction is your opportunity to eat, shop, play and experience what downtown has to offer you. So come on, we’re waiting on you to find yourself…in Downtown Lincolnton!

Experience the Marcia H Cloninger Rail-Trail

From www.traillink.com:

The Marcia H. Cloninger Rail-Trail, known locally as the Lincolnton Rail-Trail, offers a chance to explore the heart of this small Southern town, highlighted by a stately courthouse, model Main Street, thriving arts scene, and nearby lakes and mountains. Once an eyesore, the former Norfolk Southern Railroad corridor is now the pride and joy of “Lovable Lincolnton.”

The trail begins near Liberty Street and travels past the old railroad depot at Pine and North Poplar streets. As it winds through town, it briefly shares its corridor with an active railroad line. Expect to encounter both locals and visitors out for exercise or on a break from the specialty and antique shops. The smooth, paved trail is especially popular with inline skaters and parents pushing baby strollers. Benches line the route, inviting you to pause and take in this enchanting town and trail.

The trail was named in memory of the woman who championed its cause and was instrumental in securing funds to build it. It is part of the growing Carolina Thread Trail, a trail network of more than 1,400 miles across North and South Carolina.