The best rivers, trails and parks to explore in Elkin

Located in the Yadkin Valley near the Blue Ridge Parkway, Elkin is a hot spot for outdoor lovers. With countless rivers, trails and parks — and a prime location between two scenic state parks — the area’s outdoor recreation offers everything from expert-level activities to entry-level options for families with kids.

“Elkin is unique in the outdoor sports community because, even with all that's already available, there seems to be excitement to bring more to our town,” said Kasius Stanley, owner of Hometown River Company and Hometown RV Park. “A lot of the amenities and outfitters are fairly new to the area and, without the support of the local community, none of them would have been able to maintain. However, the Elkin Community has embraced outdoor activity as part of their future and will continue to grow for years to come.”

Here are some rivers, trails and parks you can explore around Elkin.

Whether tubing, canoeing or kayaking, there are plenty of starting and stopping points along the waterfront.

“With access almost every five to seven miles, you can safely enter and exit with all equipment needed,” said Stanley.

The Yadkin River is far from the only body of water in the area, however — and visitors and locals have an easy time finding a variety of rivers to explore.

“Even though we’re known for having the Yadkin River right outside our historic downtown, you’d be amazed at the number of river accesses and rivers that are actually within a close proximity to Elkin,” said Jason Taylor, chairman of the Elkin Valley Trails Association board of directors.

“The Elkin Creek, Mitchell, Fisher and the Ararat rivers all require higher levels of water to paddle them and do require a higher level of expertise due to this fact,” said Bob Hillyer, trail building chairman for the Elkin Valley Trails Association.

Elkin has many hiking trails, some that come into town, some that pass by vineyards and some that trace the route of Revolutionary War militias. There are also two nearby state parks.

“We have beginner trails, like the Elkin and Alleghany Rail trail, and moderate like the Grassy Creek trail, then a bit harder with Wells Knob trail or Stone Mountain,” said Hillyer. “Some trails are desirable because they include vineyards and tasting rooms or are a solitary experience like the Forest Bathing trail.”

The Forest Bathing trail is especially unique, with the title “forest bathing” tracing its root back to the Japanese shinrin-yoku, or therapy in nature. On this trail, hikers can commune and reflect in nature, away from the hustle and bustle of regular life.

The trail also connects to Grassy Creek Vineyard & Winery, where there are opportunities for tasting and purchasing local wines. Another trail near the vineyard is Carter Falls, which leads to scenic views of the waterfall and collecting pool beneath.

Additionally, North Carolina’s popular Mountains to Sea trail, which starts at Clingman’s Dome in the Great Smoky Mountains and finishes at Jockey’s Ridge in the Outer Banks, can be accessed through the Carter Falls trail, then passes directly through Elkin’s downtown. The Elkin portion of the trail offers scenic views at a slower pace.

“It’s not a very strenuous trail, as far as hills and mountains, but it has very beautiful scenery along the Big Elkin Creek,” said Stanley. “Elkin has added a few pedestrian bridges over the past few years that have truly added a new level to this trail.”

Elkin is also home to NC Trail Days, a festival hosted every summer that encourages hiking, biking and exploring the towns many trails and outdoor areas.

“The staff really care about it and take pride in seeing it as perfect as possible,” said Taylor. “It’s hard to believe this is a public park — definitely well maintained, and friendly people all around.”

“The amenities range from basketball, tennis courts, swimming pool, picnic area, playground, walking track, showers, restrooms, workout facility, soccer, baseball and softball fields, benches throughout the E&A Rail trail, fishing areas, dog walking with leash, electric golf cart for those who need assistance, bike cleaning and work station, and a small pavilion,” added Bill Blackley, public relations chairman for the Elkin Valley Trails Association. “It has just about everything.”