Dunn-Erwin Rail Trail

The Dunn-Erwin Rail Trail offers an easy and relaxing experience with a comfortable, flat, and well-maintained crushed stone surface. It traverses diverse landscapes including wooded areas, open farmland, and cotton fields. As it enters Erwin, it transitions to a small-town setting, sometimes lined with trees, and includes a concrete pathway through downtown before returning to crushed stone through remote forestland.

Yes, the trail is considered easy due to its level and flat terrain, making it ideal for casual walkers, families, and even serious runners. It is also ADA-accessible, ensuring a comfortable experience for a wide range of users.

The trail connects the downtown areas of Dunn and Erwin, North Carolina, offering multiple access points. For amenities like restrooms and additional parking, consider starting or ending your trip at the Cape Fear River Trail Park, which is accessible via the trail's extension.

Yes, dogs are welcome on the Dunn-Erwin Rail Trail. Please ensure they are kept on a leash at all times to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

The trail can be enjoyed year-round. However, visiting in the spring or fall offers pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, especially when the cotton fields are in bloom or changing colors. Summer can be warm, so an early start is recommended.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access and enjoy the Dunn-Erwin Rail Trail.

The trail follows a historic rail line and features informative signs highlighting historical points of interest. You'll pass through diverse landscapes including wooded areas, open farmland, and cotton fields, cross the Black River, and can observe a bog. An extension leads to the Cape Fear River Trail Park, which offers scenic overlooks. You can also spot the Wetlands.

Yes, the Dunn-Erwin Rail Trail is a significant part of the larger East Coast Greenway, a 3,000-mile trail network stretching from Maine to Florida. Sections of the route also align with the Cape Fear Run and other segments of the Dunn - Erwin Rail Trail.

While amenities may be limited along the main trail, the extension to Cape Fear River Trail Park provides additional facilities such as restrooms, parking, nature trails, scenic overlooks, and canoe access.

You can combine your trail experience with visits to local attractions in Dunn and Erwin, including Noah's Landing and the Averasboro Civil War Battlefield and Museum.

Given the trail's length and diverse scenery, we recommend bringing water, snacks, sun protection, and comfortable walking shoes. If you plan to explore the extension to Cape Fear River Trail Park, consider packing a picnic to enjoy by the river.