Trailhead: In progress - for now, a drop-off/pick-up would be necessary at the gate for the driveway by the old Chatham ballfields across from Vaughan Bassett
Length: Around 3.5 miles total out-and-back
Difficulty Level: Easy
What to Expect:
As the Elkin Valley Trails Association (EVTA) is still developing this trail, it goes without saying that the Bonanza Trail is Elkin’s newest trail. This trail is part of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail corridor, and unless you’re thru-hiking the MST, the best way for you to experience it is to be dropped off at the gate to the former Chatham ballfields across from the Vaughan Bassett facility on NC hwy 268, just east of downtown Elkin. We chose this for the July edition for its predominantly shaded save for the brownfield of which operated as a dumping site for Chatham Manufacturing, and its proximity to the Yadkin River.
From the gate, users should walk straight, down the drive to the until it curves and should take a left, looking for EVTA-designed ‘MST’ arrow signs. Remember that the gate will be locked unless there is an organized hike for this trail AND until an official trailhead has been established. The rustic trail signage is prevalent heading east towards I-77. Please remember to stay on the trail’s path and keep dogs on a leash as this trail passes through private property and great efforts have been made to get the blessing for a trail. The Bonanza Trail terminates after passing under the I-77 bridge you’ll be close to Hwy 268. There, you’ll turn around and walk the path back to the gate at the Chatham fields.
Overall:
The Bonanza Trail is ‘off the beaten’ path however, it will see a lot of upgrades over the next few seasons. Access will improve too as it receives more attention. Get a feel for what it’s like as a thru-hiker passing in between towns along the MST, see some remnants of a greater part of Elkin’s history, and be on the lookout for wildlife, particularly an abundance of bird species. Vegetation can be thick at certain sections, so proper clothing and the ability to identify poison ivy, ticks, etc. is important. Please stay on the trail and enjoy some solitude and serenity so close to town.
Our Notes:
Foot traffic only
Dogs must be on a leash
STAY ON THE TRAIL, please!
Watch your step
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