One of the best-kept secrets of the south, this 10.2 mile crushed gravel trail winds its way past the site of the Battle of Sulphur Creek Trestle. Piney Chapel Road Access provides access to the southern end of the trail. Here, walkers can retrace the same steps as civil war heroes.

This trail offers a back-to-nature getaway for thousands of local residents and tourists. Hikers, bikers, joggers, bird watchers, horseback riders, as well as naturalists, students and historians are just some of the groups who enjoy the great variety of opportunities created by the trail. The trail is also accessible to wheelchairs so that everyone can enjoy the wonder and beauty of this trail. Courtesy, Limestone County Parks and Recreation.

Until it was abandoned in 1986, the rail line brought in mail and supplies to area communities and hauled out cotton. The trail is named for local trail pioneer Richard Martin. This section of the trail (six miles until the next access spot) offers a path through wetlands before gaining a bit of an incline as it continues north to Elkmont.

Plan Your Trip

The trailheads are located on Piney Chapel Road just north of Athens and Veto, Alabama at the Tennessee state line. Newly constructed at the Piney Chapel trailhead, is a pavilion with restrooms, parking lot for vehicles/horse trailers, and hitching posts. Also at the Veto trailhead, is the restoration of a 1800’s community church and new restroom facilities. The trail hours are daylight to sunset.