For over 15 years, people in Western North Carolina have dreamed of transforming the unused Ecusta rail line into something new—a 19-mile rail trail inviting people out into vibrant communities and beautiful countryside. Now that dream is becoming real!
With a huge outpouring of local support and several major grants, Conserving Carolina and our partners raised the money necessary to buy the land and pay for construction. In the summer of 2025, the first 6-mile section of the trail opened from Hendersonville to Horse Shoe. The full trail is expected to be completed by the end of 2027. You can learn more about the progress of the trail and how to plan your visit at the Ecusta Trail website.
This hike is part of Conserving Carolina’s White Squirrel Hiking Challenge 8, which takes you to 8 amazing hikes on protected land. Take the challenge to discover some great places!
Location: Hendersonville to Horse Shoe, NC
Length: 6 mile, one way, out and back
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 341 feet
Great For: Walking, Hiking, Running, Dog Walking
Getting There
Parking to access Mile 0 can be accessed at the Hendersonville Visitor Center, 201 S Main St, Hendersonville, NC 28792, or roadside parking. There is also parking available at Trailside Brewing Co./Ecusta Market between Mile 0 and Mile 1, 873 Lenox Park Dr, Hendersonville, NC 28739, and between Mile 2 and Mile 3, at Guidon Brewing Outpost 1, 2120 Brevard Rd, Hendersonville, NC 28791.
Here is a link to Google Maps and the Hendersonville Visitor Center.
The Hike
The trail is 12 -14 feet wide and paved so it is usable by all ages and abilities (ADA compatible). On each side of the pavement, there are 2 foot wide, sloped gravel sides.
If you are walking, do at least 5 total miles—so walk a 2.5 mile section out-and-back or shuttle the trail from its endpoints in Hendersonville and Horse Shoe. If you are biking, bike the whole 5.6-mile trail out and back, for a total of 11.2 miles.
Trail use and etiquette
- Stay right, pass left: Keep to the right side of the trail and pass others on the left, giving an audible warning.
- Yield to pedestrians: Pedestrians and others on foot always have the right of way.
- Keep a safe speed: The speed limit is 15 mph unless posted otherwise.
- Be cautious: Use extra caution around children, in congested areas, and when crossing roads and driveways.
- Do not block the trail: Pull off the paved trail when stopping or taking a break.
- Wear a helmet: Helmets are recommended for everyone on wheels and required for those under the age of 16.
- Mind your audio: It’s recommended to not wear headphones. If you do, keep one ear open to hear other trail users.
Pet and waste rules
- Leash your pet: Keep all pets on a leash no longer than six feet.
- Clean up after your pet: Dispose of all pet waste and other trash properly to keep the trail clean.
Prohibited items and activities
- Unauthorized motor vehicles: Do not operate unauthorized motor vehicles on the trail.
- Alcohol and substances: Alcoholic beverages and controlled substances are not allowed.
How Conserving Carolina Helped Create the Ecusta Trail
Conserving Carolina worked with the Friends of the Ecusta Trail to buy the rail corridor and raise the millions of dollars required for trail construction. We are thrilled to see the first section of the trail come to life and we look forward to seeing it extended all the way to Brevard!
BECOME A CONSERVING CAROLINA MEMBER!
Take the White Squirrel Hiking Challenge!
This hike is part of White Squirrel Hiking Challenge 8—an opportunity to explore eight great hikes, all in places that Conserving Carolina has helped to protect. Take all eight hikes and earn your White Squirrel patch!
