Discover an exciting piece of history in Rutherfordton on this secret trail in North Carolina. Bradley Nature Preserve at Alexander’s Ford is a part of the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail and an important piece of military history. It follows the route taken by the brave men who fought at the Battle Of Kings Mountain. Let’s go back to 1780 when the militia arrived at the Green River and trusted the shelter of the rich woods to camp along its sheltering banks.

Late in the day of Oct. 5, 1780, about 1800 men headed toward a ford on the Green River.
Greg Miner/AllTrails
This lovely reproduction of artist Lloyd Branson's "Gathering of Overmountain Men at Sycamore Shoals" (1915), helps visualize the occurrences here.
Lloyd Branson (painter), Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
It depicts these brave men in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
After a little more than a mile, you’ll reach an open area, possibly the exact spot where the Overmountain Men made camp
Greg Miner/AllTrails
The frontiersmen camped at the ford that night during which time they learned that British Forces were near causing them to change course in the morning. Due to their intelligence and strategic plans, these brave soldiers caught and destroyed Major Patrick Ferguson and his men.
The site of the ford is located at the end of the 1.2-mile trail, where you can get in and enjoy the Green River.
Tim Steeb/AllTrails

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The easy, wide walk surrounds us with a cool, wooded tunnel most of the journey.
PolkTrails/TripAdvisor
And look for old markers along the path revealing secrets of a mysterious history.
Joseph Jamison/AllTrails
The picturesque Gray's Chapel Church near the trailhead offers plenty of parking down the dirt road to the right.
Dan Sides/AllTrails
We love the river view and old cemetery along the way.
Or drive down the grassy road to the picnic pavilion and start your hike there where we like to enjoy breakfast first.
Angelia Maxey/AllTrails
The trail also has several benches and picnic tables along the way and ends at Green River

For more information about this secret trail in North Carolina, visit the Alexander’s Ford website of the National Park Service.

And while you’re in Rutherfordton, continue the historic theme with a stay at the Carrier Houses B&B. Discover even more ways to unwind in this peaceful town.

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Bradley Nature Preserve at Alexander's Ford, Grays Chapel Church Rd, Rutherfordton, NC 28139, USA