A Look at NC Trail Days 2025

As part of NC Trail Days 2025, Elkin, and neighboring Jonesville, welcomed visitors from across the state and beyond for four days of adventure, celebration, and connection. With the backdrop of the Blue Ridge, the weekend highlighted the region’s rich trail network — including Segment 6 of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail. The four days offered everything from

guided hikes and paddling trips to film screenings, live music, and a lively vendor village. More than just an outdoor festival, Trail Days was a celebration of place, and Elkin stood proudly at its center.

As a cornerstone of NC Trail Days 2025, Elkin showcased exactly why it earned its reputation as one of North Carolina’s most dynamic trail towns. With its walkable downtown, historic Main Street, and welcoming local businesses, Elkin offered more than just a basecamp — it became part of the experience. Visitors could stroll from the bustling farmers market to the trailhead in minutes, enjoying small-town hospitality alongside big outdoor adventure. From the gentle paths of the Elkin Creek Greenway to the rugged terrain of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail’s Segment 6, Elkin connected people to the land in meaningful ways. Add in the easy access to the Yadkin River for paddling and fishing, and it’s clear: Elkin didn’t just participate in Trail Days — it embodied the spirit of the celebration.

Another standout feature of the NC Trail Days host towns is their unbeatable location — perfectly nestled between two of North Carolina’s most iconic state parks. Just 25 minutes to the west lies Stone Mountain State Park, a haven for hikers with its towering granite dome, cascading waterfalls, and trout-filled streams. To the east, Pilot Mountain State Park rises from the Piedmont landscape, offering rugged trails, panoramic views, and world-class climbing. This rare positioning means visitors can wake up in Elkin or Jonesville, enjoy coffee downtown, and be immersed in mountain or river adventures before lunch. Whether chasing summit views or seeking a quiet paddle on the Yadkin, these trail towns offer the ideal launch point for every kind of outdoor experience.

Behind the scenes of NC Trail Days is a passionate group whose work makes it all possible: the Elkin Valley Trails Association (EVTA). This dedicated team of volunteers is the backbone of the region’s trail network, working year-round to build, maintain, and advocate for the paths that connect people to nature — and to each other. From scenic greenways to rugged stretches of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail, EVTA’s hands-on commitment is visible at every turn. Their vision and effort not only support the festival’s success but also ensure that Elkin and the greater Yadkin Valley remain a vibrant destination for hikers, bikers, paddlers, and nature lovers long after the weekend ends.

One of the biggest highlights was the Big Elkin Trail Relay Marathon, a brand-new team race that showcased the area’s stunning trail systems, including key portions of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail. Festivalgoers also had the chance to give back during the Yadkin River Clean-Up & Paddle, combining conservation with recreation as volunteers helped restore the river before enjoying a group paddle. And of course, no Trail Days weekend would be complete without the Main Street Pancake Breakfast and Vendor Fest, where locals and visitors gathered downtown to enjoy live music, outdoor gear demos, and a vibrant showcase of all things Elkin. Together, these events captured the heart of the festival — where small-town charm meets big-time adventure.

NC Trail Days 2025 was more than a weekend of outdoor events — it was a celebration of place, purpose, and people. From the scenic trails and river adventures to the downtown festivities and volunteer-driven efforts, the festival reflected everything that makes Elkin and the Yadkin Valley so special. As visitors packed up their boots and boats, they took with them more than memories — they carried a deeper connection to this trail-rich region and the welcoming towns at its heart. With momentum building and trails expanding, one thing is certain: Elkin’s role in North Carolina’s trail culture is only growing stronger. Until next year, the path is here — and Elkin will be ready to welcome you back.

Click here to learn more about NC Trail Days.

Photo Credit: nctraildays.com