Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Get the App

Routes

Hiking trails & Routes

Cottonwood Trail

Hiking trails & Routes

Cottonwood Trail

Easy

3.4

(28)

hikers

Cottonwood Trail

Q: Where can I park to access the Cottonwood Trail?

You can typically find parking within the Edwin M. Griffin Nature Preserve , which serves as the primary access point for this trail. As an urban greenspace, it's designed for easy public access.

Q: Is the Cottonwood Trail suitable for beginners or families with children?

Yes, this trail is rated as easy and is generally suitable for beginners and families. It offers a tranquil escape within an urban setting, making it a great option for a leisurely walk.

Q: What kind of terrain can I expect on this route?

The trail winds through natural habitats, often along Lawson's Fork Creek. You'll encounter wetlands, open spaces, and some geological formations. A notable feature is the 550-foot Edwin M. Griffin Nature Preserve Boardwalk , which provides access over wetlands.

Q: What wildlife or plants might I see along the way?

The preserve is rich in biodiversity due to its riparian environment. Keep an eye out for deer, wild turkeys, foxes, beavers, raccoons, and various birds and reptiles. The area also boasts over 50 species of trees, including the namesake cottonwoods, and historical loblolly pines.

Q: Is the Edwin M. Griffin Nature Preserve free to enter, and do I need a permit for the trail?

The Edwin M. Griffin Nature Preserve is an urban greenspace, and typically, there are no entrance fees or permits required for general access to its trails, including the Cottonwood Trail.

Q: Is this trail dog-friendly?

Yes, dogs are welcome on the trail! Please ensure your furry companion remains on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.

Q: What is the best time of year to hike this trail?

Given its lush riparian environment and diverse flora, spring and fall are particularly beautiful for hiking this trail, with comfortable temperatures and vibrant scenery. However, as an urban preserve, it's accessible and enjoyable year-round.

Q: Does the trail intersect other well-known paths?

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Cottonwood Trail, Wildflower Way, Converse Heights Connector, and River Birch Trail, offering opportunities to explore more of the preserve's network.

Q: Are there any specific points of interest or landmarks along the route?

Absolutely! You'll pass through the Edwin M. Griffin Nature Preserve , known for its natural beauty. A highlight is the 550-foot Edwin M. Griffin Nature Preserve Boardwalk , which offers excellent views of the wetlands and opportunities for wildlife observation.

Q: What activities can I do at the Edwin M. Griffin Nature Preserve besides hiking?

Beyond hiking, the preserve is popular for running, kayaking, and canoeing along Lawson's Fork Creek. It also features a disc golf course, providing a variety of recreational options within the urban greenspace.

00:46

2.96km

10m

Hiking

The Cottonwood Trail offers a delightful, easy stroll through the Edwin M. Griffin Nature Preserve in Spartanburg, South Carolina. You will find yourself on mostly flat, well-maintained paths shaded by large cottonwood trees, winding along Lawson's Fork Creek and through diverse wetlands. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including deer, wild turkey, and various birds, as you enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

This family-friendly hike is a quick 1.8 miles (3.0 km) with only 28 feet (8 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 45 minutes to complete. It is an ideal option for beginner hikers or anyone seeking a short, refreshing walk. The trail is easily accessible within the urban preserve, making it a convenient choice for a spontaneous outdoor adventure.

Part of a larger 115-acre urban preserve with over 5 miles of trails, the Cottonwood Trail is a popular spot not just for hiking, but also for running, biking, and wildlife viewing. The route features wooded and open areas, a scenic bridge over wetlands, and even picnic spots. It is a fantastic way to experience nature and observe wildlife without venturing far from the city.

Last updated: June 9, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

1.85 km

Edwin M. Griffin Nature Preserve

Highlight • Forest

1.97 km

Edwin M. Griffin Nature Preserve Boardwalk

Highlight • Trail

2.37 km

Edwin M. Griffin Nature Preserve

Highlight • Forest

The Edwin M. Griffin Nature Preserve has five miles of trails through wetlands that offer a habitat for wildlife such as deer, wild turkey, fox, and beaver. You can also canoe or kayak down the Lawsons Fork Creek that runs through the preserve.

Tip by

2.96 km

End point

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

2.55 km

341 m

< 100 m

Surfaces

2.52 km

191 m

175 m

< 100 m

Elevation

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

Weather

Today

Tuesday 7 July

33°C

22°C

60 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 13.0 km/h

to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route

Comments

Want to know more?

This route was planned by komoot.

Navigate

Send to Phone

Save

Edit route

Download GPX

Move start point

Embed on a website

Report an Issue

Report restricted access

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I park to access the Cottonwood Trail?

You can typically find parking within the Edwin M. Griffin Nature Preserve, which serves as the primary access point for this trail. As an urban greenspace, it's designed for easy public access.

Is the Cottonwood Trail suitable for beginners or families with children?

Yes, this trail is rated as easy and is generally suitable for beginners and families. It offers a tranquil escape within an urban setting, making it a great option for a leisurely walk.

What kind of terrain can I expect on this route?

The trail winds through natural habitats, often along Lawson's Fork Creek. You'll encounter wetlands, open spaces, and some geological formations. A notable feature is the 550-foot Edwin M. Griffin Nature Preserve Boardwalk, which provides access over wetlands.

What wildlife or plants might I see along the way?

The preserve is rich in biodiversity due to its riparian environment. Keep an eye out for deer, wild turkeys, foxes, beavers, raccoons, and various birds and reptiles. The area also boasts over 50 species of trees, including the namesake cottonwoods, and historical loblolly pines.

Is the Edwin M. Griffin Nature Preserve free to enter, and do I need a permit for the trail?

The Edwin M. Griffin Nature Preserve is an urban greenspace, and typically, there are no entrance fees or permits required for general access to its trails, including the Cottonwood Trail.

Is this trail dog-friendly?

Yes, dogs are welcome on the trail! Please ensure your furry companion remains on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.

What is the best time of year to hike this trail?

Given its lush riparian environment and diverse flora, spring and fall are particularly beautiful for hiking this trail, with comfortable temperatures and vibrant scenery. However, as an urban preserve, it's accessible and enjoyable year-round.

Does the trail intersect other well-known paths?

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Cottonwood Trail, Wildflower Way, Converse Heights Connector, and River Birch Trail, offering opportunities to explore more of the preserve's network.

Are there any specific points of interest or landmarks along the route?

Absolutely! You'll pass through the Edwin M. Griffin Nature Preserve, known for its natural beauty. A highlight is the 550-foot Edwin M. Griffin Nature Preserve Boardwalk, which offers excellent views of the wetlands and opportunities for wildlife observation.

What activities can I do at the Edwin M. Griffin Nature Preserve besides hiking?

Beyond hiking, the preserve is popular for running, kayaking, and canoeing along Lawson's Fork Creek. It also features a disc golf course, providing a variety of recreational options within the urban greenspace.