Just minutes from downtown Belmont, Rocky Branch Park is quickly becoming a favorite destination for mountain bikers, runners, and families looking for outdoor activities near Charlotte.

Here, you can ride wooded singletrack trails and then head into historic downtown Belmont for local shops and restaurants. Now, thanks to the dedication of a local Eagle Scout, your visit to the park is even more welcoming.

A Trail System Designed for All Skill Levels

Rocky Branch Park consists of a growing trail system designed to appeal to a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts. Over the past several years, the Rocky Branch Park Trail Enhancement Project has transformed this public space into a progressive urban trail network for mountain biking, hiking, running, and walking. The trails extend between Belmont and nearby Cramerton, giving you more ways to explore Gaston County.

Whether you’re searching for beginner-friendly biking trails near Charlotte or more advanced features, you’ll find a variety of options to fit your skill level. You can access the park from three entrances, including a trailhead just one mile from Belmont’s Main Street. Each main trailhead is marked by a six-foot cairn, making it easy to find your starting point.

An Eagle Scout Project Gives Back to the Trails

As the park continues to grow, so does the community support behind it. Belmont resident and graduating senior Cooper Sass recently contributed to the park’s development through his Eagle Scout project.

“I’m giving back to a place that means a lot to me,” Cooper said. “I grew up biking these trails and now I have the opportunity to give back to a place that shaped me.”

Working alongside scouts and community volunteers, Cooper led the construction of a new observation deck near the trail outpost. From here, you can sit, relax, and watch riders navigate nearby features, or simply take in the surrounding scenery. The deck also serves as a scenic photo spot perfect for capturing your time spent in Belmont.

Creating a Space for the Next Generation of Riders

Beyond improving the rider experience, the project also makes Rocky Branch Park more accessible for families. A new low-to-the-ground obstacle course gives younger visitors a safe place to play and practice balance skills while staying off the main trail system.

“It’s something the community has wanted for a long time,” Cooper said. “It will make the area safer and more enjoyable for everyone who uses it.”

These additions build on a growing list of Eagle Scout-led improvements at Rocky Branch Park. Past projects include benches, bridges, and entrance signage—all of which help create a more accessible and welcoming experience for everyone exploring the park.