Rail-Trails Southeast

Explore 81 of the best rail-trails and other multiuse pathways in Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina.

All across the country, unused railroad corridors have been converted into public multiuse trails. Level and accessible, these paths are ideal for a brisk fitness walk, bike ride, or stroll with the family. In Rail-Trails Southeast, the experts from Rails-to-Trails Conservancy present the best of these routes, as well as other multiuse pathways, in Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. Many rail-trails are paved and run within view of the most scenic parts of town. Others offer rugged scenery on ungroomed, mostly dirt, and somewhat wild paths.

Explore the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail in Alabama, voted “Best Recreational Trail” in the country in a USA Today poll. Take in a beautiful blend of nature and art along the famed Atlanta Beltline in Georgia. In the Carolinas, enjoy coastal beaches, hickory forests, abundant farmland, and more on segments of the East Coast Greenway; or travel from the Great Smoky Mountains to the Outer Banks along North Carolina’s Mountains-to-Sea Trail. Whether you’re on feet or wheels, you’ll love the variety in this collection of multiuse trails that total nearly 700 miles!

Inside you’ll find:

• Informative descriptions written by rail-trail experts
• Detailed maps for every featured trail
• GPS coordinates of parking waypoints
• Icons indicating the activities that each trail accommodates
• Information you can rely on from the official guide to rail-trails

“You can now throw away all your self-help books on fighting depression, losing weight, toning muscles, finding something to do with your kids, and learning American history. Just use this guide, find a great trail—and enjoy!”
—Peter Harnik, Director, Center for City Park Excellence, Trust for Public Land