Mountain Island Park Trail

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Fall Colors · River/Creek · Spring · Views · Wildlife

Following the Mountain Island Park Trail makes for a 3.3 mile out-and-back hike. Parking is available at the trailhead near Mountain Island HydroElectric Facility (304 Mountain Island Rd, Mt Holly, NC 28120). The trail, which is mostly doubletrack, is well marked and easy to follow.

There are no public restrooms at the trailhead.

The trailhead is located next to Mountain Island Lake Dam, a hydroelectric facility owned by Duke Power. There is a canoe launch, playground, viewing area, and several fishing areas including a handicap fishing site perfect for catfish and bass fishing. The trail then begins at the south end of the parking area, where there is a kiosk with a trail map. The trail then continues south with numerous views of the Catawba River.

A small trail kiosk is located at the 0.6-mile mark. After this, the trail becomes more wooded and heavily shaded for the next mile and there are four pedestrian bridges across small creeks. There is a short loop marking the end of the trail, where you can then return to the trailhead.