Gaston County, NC

Destinations that could be linked by the Carolina Thread Trail:

Crowders Mountain State Park

Crowders Mountain State Park is a North Carolina State Park located in the western Piedmont of North Carolina between the cities of King's Mountain and Gastonia, or about 25 miles west of Charlotte, covering over 5,000 acres. Crowder's Mountain itself abruptly rises nearly 800 feet above the surrounding terrain and has an elevation of 1,625 feet (495 meters) above sea level. Within the park there are numerous outdoor recreation activities, including hiking on many of its internal trails.

522 Park Office Lane
Kings Mountain, NC 28086
(704) 853-5375

Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden

Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden is a 450-acre botanical garden located in Belmont, NC, along the banks of Lake Wylie on Hwy. 279, just west of Charlotte. Part nature preserve, part showcase for the best of Southern horticulture, the Garden is in the process of implementing a spectacular 40-year master plan. Already completed and open to the public are a stunning Visitor Pavilion and gift shop, more than 110 acres of themed gardens, a dozen sparkling fountains and a grassy outdoor amphitheater for concerts and other events. Open 7 days/week. Group rates are available.

6500 South New Hope Road
Belmont, NC 28012
(704) 825-4490

Mountain Island Educational State Forest

Concentrating on Forestry Best Management Practices related to water quality, Mountain Island Educational State Forest is located on an important conservation easement. Mountain Island Lake, from which the forest takes its name, provides water for one out of every twelve residents of North Carolina. Currently under construction, MIESF will open for general public access in the near future.

1933 Mountain Island Highway
Mount Holly, NC 28120

Spencer Mountain

The community was named for Zachariah Spencer, a loyalist who became a patriot during the Revolutionary War.