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Mary Black Rail Trail – River Birch Trail loop from Spartanburg

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Running trails & routes

Mary Black Rail Trail – River Birch Trail loop from Spartanburg

Hard

4.7

(2534)

8,413

runners

Mary Black Rail Trail – River Birch Trail loop from Spartanburg

02:08

20.4km

140m

Running

Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.

Last updated: April 21, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

2.55 km

Mary Black Rail Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

The Mary Black Rail Trail is a 2-mile paved trail that runs through southern Spartanburg. It is a great place for an easy run, as the path is completely traffic-free and flat.

Tip by

3.05 km

Mary Black Rail Trail was a very successful rail-to-rail project and one of the most popular places to hike and bike in Spartanburg. This 2-mile-long paved path also has bikes that visitors can rent from the B-Cycle station at the trailhead at Henry and Union streets.

Tip by

3.95 km

The Rail Yard

Highlight • MTB Park

The Rail Yard is a great community park along the MBF Rail Trail. The park has an amphitheater, picnic areas and a bike park.

Tip by

13.2 km

Drayton Mills

Highlight • Historical Site

Drayton Mills were originally constructed in 1902; at the turn of the century, over 100 years later, they went through a massive transformation. Once a textile mill, it is now an apartment complex in the Romanesque Revival style. It is a nice piece of history and a beautiful complex now, so worth checking out on the ride.

Tip by

17.2 km

River Birch Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

The River Birch Trail is a picturesque path that runs alongside Lawsons Fork Creek, offering charming views of the surrounding nature. This trail connects with the Edwin M. Griffin Park trails, providing a peaceful and easy hike. The route features a variety of terrains, including packed dirt, wooden boardwalks, and paved sections.

Tip by

20.4 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

17.7 km

1.51 km

758 m

275 m

142 m

Surfaces

13.8 km

5.03 km

1.44 km

< 100 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Weather

Today

Monday 13 July

24°C

20°C

98 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 11.0 km/h

to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route

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Description

If you're looking for a varied and engaging long run in Spartanburg, the Mary Black Rail Trail – River Birch Trail loop from Spartanburg is a solid choice. This difficult jogging route covers 12.7 miles (20.4 km) with 452 feet (138 metres) of elevation gain, taking roughly 2 hours and 8 minutes to complete. It's perfect for joggers who appreciate a mix of urban convenience and natural serenity, offering a unique blend of experiences within the city.

What to expect on Mary Black Rail Trail – River Birch Trail loop from Spartanburg

This loop offers a fascinating journey through contrasting landscapes. You'll start on the Mary Black Rail Trail, a flat, paved path that winds through Spartanburg's urban areas, connecting to parks, shops, and even a dog park. Keep an eye out for old architecture and passing trains as you cover this section. The route then transitions to the River Birch Trail, where the scenery shifts dramatically to a peaceful, nature-oriented experience. Here, you'll jog alongside Lawson's Fork Creek, enjoying continuous views of the water and a beautiful tree canopy, including a unique bamboo forest. While both trails are generally easy, the combined distance and some gentle inclines on the River Birch Trail contribute to the overall difficult rating, making it a good challenge for experienced joggers.

Planning your visit

Both the Mary Black Rail Trail and the River Birch Trail are part of "The Dan," Spartanburg's Daniel Morgan Trail System, making them well-maintained and easy to navigate. The trails are primarily paved, making them suitable for jogging year-round, though cooler mornings are best in summer. Parking is available at various access points along the Mary Black Rail Trail in Spartanburg. Since the route connects urban and natural sections, you'll find amenities like cafes and shops near the Mary Black Rail Trail, perfect for a post-run refuel.

Trail details