McAlpine Creek Park Lake – The Lucas Family Gristmill loop from Matthews
McAlpine Creek Park Lake – The Lucas Family Gristmill loop from Matthews
3.1
(15)
24
riders
McAlpine Creek Park Lake – The Lucas Family Gristmill loop from Matthews
02:16
37.4km
270m
Cycling
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: April 18, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Bus stop
Get Directions
3.43 km
McAlpine Creek Park Lake
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
5.91 km
The Lucas Family Gristmill
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
7.91 km
Hindu Center of Charlotte
Highlight • Religious Site
Tip by
13.6 km
The old Eastland Mall location
Highlight • Structure
Tip by
20.5 km
The Common Market
Highlight • Cafe
Tip by
21.8 km
Independence Park
Highlight • Structure
37.4 km
End point
Bus stop
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
12.4 km
11.6 km
10.6 km
1.61 km
1.23 km
Surfaces
19.7 km
15.8 km
1.48 km
360 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
Highest point (240 m)
Lowest point (170 m)
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Weather
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Today
Tuesday 7 July
33°C
22°C
71 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 14.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a pleasant and historically rich touring cycling route near Matthews, the McAlpine Creek Park Lake – The Lucas Family Gristmill loop from Matthews is a solid choice. This moderate 23.2-mile (37.4 km) ride, with 883 feet (269 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 2 hours and 16 minutes to complete, offering a rewarding experience without being overly strenuous. It's an excellent option for cyclists who appreciate varied terrain and natural scenery combined with a touch of local history.
What to expect on McAlpine Creek Park Lake – The Lucas Family Gristmill loop from Matthews
As you pedal, you'll journey through a lush green corridor, following McAlpine Creek through woods and wetlands. The route primarily features paved surfaces, making for a smooth ride, but be ready for some crushed gravel paths and boardwalks as you explore the broader McAlpine Creek Greenway system. You'll pass the serene 3-acre McAlpine Creek Park Lake and encounter the impressive stone ruins of the Lucas Family Gristmill, a significant historical landmark. The ride is generally considered moderate, suitable for a range of fitness levels, and offers plenty of natural beauty and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Planning your visit
The McAlpine Creek Park Lake – The Lucas Family Gristmill loop is accessible and multi-use, making it a great option for a day out. The park offers numerous access points, picnic areas, benches, and restrooms. Since the trail is popular, arriving earlier in the day might help secure parking, especially on weekends. The area is beautiful year-round, but spring and fall offer particularly pleasant cycling conditions with mild temperatures and vibrant foliage.
Trail details
- Distance: 23.2 miles (37.4 km)
- Elevation gain: 883 feet (269 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 2 hours and 16 minutes
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