Tree tunnel – The Lucas Family Gristmill loop from Matthews Murkland Presbyterian Church
Tree tunnel – The Lucas Family Gristmill loop from Matthews Murkland Presbyterian Church
4.7
(2759)
7,935
riders
Tree tunnel – The Lucas Family Gristmill loop from Matthews Murkland Presbyterian Church
01:30
24.6km
90m
Cycling
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: May 8, 2026
Tips
Cycling is not permitted along parts of this route
After 1.62 km for 102 m
After 15.5 km for 170 m
After 16.4 km for 113 m
After 23.1 km for 102 m
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
3.46 km
Sardis Road Trailhead
Highlight • Parking
Tip by
4.59 km
Tree tunnel
Highlight • Forest
Tip by
7.78 km
Campbell Creek Greenway
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
Tip by
12.3 km
Hindu Center of Charlotte
Highlight • Religious Site
Tip by
14.3 km
The Lucas Family Gristmill
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
15.6 km
McAlpine Creek Park
Highlight • MTB Park
Tip by
18.3 km
McAlpine Creek Park Lake
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
24.6 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
16.2 km
4.90 km
1.76 km
846 m
823 m
104 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
11.0 km
8.48 km
4.50 km
348 m
318 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Today
Saturday 27 June
34°C
22°C
47 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 19.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for an easy, scenic touring cycling route that feels a world away from city bustle, the Tree tunnel – The Lucas Family Gristmill loop from Matthews Murkland Presbyterian Church is an excellent choice. This 15.3-mile (24.6 km) touring cycling route is rated easy, with a gentle 281 feet (86 metres) of elevation gain, and you can expect to complete it in about 1 hour and 29 minutes. It's perfect for families, beginners, or anyone wanting a relaxed ride through nature without a big time commitment, making it one of the best touring cycling options in the Charlotte area.
What to expect on Tree tunnel – The Lucas Family Gristmill loop from Matthews Murkland Presbyterian Church
The route truly lives up to its "tree tunnel" name, especially along the Campbell Creek Greenway, where towering trees provide extensive shade and a lush, green canopy. You'll follow the picturesque Campbell Creek, enjoying the sounds of flowing water, before reaching the historic ruins of the Lucas Family Gristmill, a significant landmark along the way. The terrain is mostly paved with some crushed gravel sections, offering a smooth ride with minimal elevation changes, making it suitable for all fitness levels. This loop is an easy, high-payoff win for a pleasant afternoon ride.
Planning your visit
The Tree tunnel – The Lucas Family Gristmill loop from Matthews Murkland Presbyterian Church starts conveniently from the church itself, located on Old Providence Road in Charlotte, NC. Parking options for Matthews Murkland Presbyterian Church bike trail are generally available at the church or nearby greenway access points. This route is accessible year-round, but spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures for cycling. No special cycling permits are needed for Matthews North Carolina greenways, so you can simply show up and ride.
Trail details
- Distance: 15.3 miles (24.6 km)
- Elevation gain: 281 feet (86 metres)
- Difficulty: easy
- Estimated time: 1 hours and 29 minutes
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