Directions: Take I-77 South to Exit #25. (Huntersville) and
turn RIGHT. (This is Highway #73). Go West on HWY #73 approximately 3 miles
passing the Birkdale Village area. Turn LEFT on Beatties Ford Road. (Exxon gas
station is on your left as you turn). Follow Beatties Ford Road approximately 3
miles passing Bradley Middle School on your right. Continue approximately 1 mile
and turn RIGHT onto NECK ROAD. Note the Historical Rock Column and the sign
"Rural Hill-Center of Scottish Heritage. Drive on Neck Road for approximately 2
miles, crossing McDowell Creek Bridge. Rural Hill is located on the RIGHT side
just past the McDowell Creek Water Treatment Plant. Turn RIGHT into the SECOND
ENTRANCE.
*Entrance gates are open Mon-Sat. 9:00 - 4:00 only.
Trail Information: Very quiet and secluded trails with
virtually no other traffic unless the local high school cross country team is
practicing. Stop by the office for a trail map. Mix of terrain, mainly rocky
gravel, open grass fields, with some roots. Skirts across Mountain Island Lake
and through Rural Hill Nature Preserve. If the gate is closed don't worry, just
park your car on the side of the road and run to the end of Neck Road, near
Rural Hill it turns to gravel and soon leads to another wildlife refuge. You'll
be lucky if you see one car the whole time.
Miscellaneous Information: If you're in the mood for Bar-b-que
stop by Lancaster's (closest) or Bubba's (near I-77)
Zac V