Built as a walking trail, this is a decent trail for a good ride after work. There are 6 different access points across Roanoke Rapids and Weldon, and some amazing views of the Roanoke River, Roanoke Canal Aqueduct remnants, and plenty of wildlife to be seen during early mornings or late evenings. Not too technical, but there are some fairly tight squeezes between mile 3.3-6.1 that make ya feel as if you may fall into the woods. Plenty of roots along the path. Mostly hardpack. Some loose sand, dirt , and some crush-n-run gravel here and there. Couple of wooden bridges, and some steps, but there are side paths beside the stairs for riders at most points.
From I-95 take exit 173 (Roanoke Rapids/Weldon exit) and head west on HWY 158. Go to 3rd or 4th light (the one at Burger King) and turn left. This is Old Farm Road and will become 7th Street after Park Avenue. Continue to Roanoke Ave (Hwy 48) and turn right. Continue on Hwy 48 North to Jackson Street EXT and turn left. The Roanoke Canal Arts Center will be directly ahead on your right. From this point you can travel 1.5 miles west to Roanoke Rapids Lake or cross Hwy 48 and access the trail for about a 6 mile stretch.
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