While awaiting the day in anticipation of driving through Christmas Town U.S.A. in McAdenville, why not arrive early than take in a two-hour scenic hike along the river? Spend the afternoon this holiday season along the South Fork Catawba River in McAdenville on the Pharr Yarns Family Trail – and then drive through the 1.3 miles of holiday lights in Christmas Town U.S.A. There is nothing we love more on a good road trip than to pair natural beauty with fantastic attractions. And when one of those attractions happens to be one of the most festive Christmas towns in the state, you know it’s going to be a great adventure! Ready? Let’s go!
Christmas Town U.S.A. has been a holiday tradition for families for more than 60 years.
This year, shake up the tradition by arriving early. If the weather is cool, bundle up and take a scenic hike along the river before hopping in the car to view the holiday lights. McAdenville is a fun little river town and the best way to experience it on your own two feet and along the river.
The South Fork Catawba River flows for 48 miles from Hickory, North Carolina, all the way to the South Carolina border where it merges with the Catawba.
Along the way, it takes on many vistas, including the gorgeous rocky-strewn section found in McAdenville. Before you hit the trail make sure you download the Pharr Yarns Family Trail map from AllTrails to help navigate and keep track of your miles along the hike.
Advertisement
The Pharr Yarns Family Trail departs right near the I85 in the heart of Andenville and is a total of 5 miles (that's 2.5 miles in each direction). It should be accomplished by even the most inexperienced of hikers in just about two hours.
If you have less time, just hike for half of your allotted time in one direction and then turn around and hike back to your car for the other half of the time you have. The trail is fairly flat, making this a great spot for families with small kids or experienced hikers.
Advertisement
There are many attractions along the hike to keep everyone entertained.
Take a break at the stone overlook and admire the old footers still lingering in the river from a bygone era. Keep an eye out for interpretive signs that tell the storied past of this trail. There is a lot of great history to observe along the trail and remnants of years since past.
Pass underneath a trestle high above and pretend you hear the chugs of a train overhead.
There is something so nostalgic about a simple walk through the woods and finding a train trestle. It reminds us of the early days of our state and the growth we have seen over the years from the time when the iron horse ruled the land.
Perhaps even take a moment to just sit by the water's edge, listen to the sound of the running water, and allow the peaceful cadence of the flowing river wash over you.
When you've hiked the entire trail (or even a portion), turn around in time to arrive back to your car ahead of the winter darkness.
And get ready for your annual trek (either one of many return trips or the first of many to come) through one of the best Christmas towns in North Carolina.
Voted among the 10 Best Holiday Lights Displays in the Country by USA Today readers, Christmas Town U.S.A. is a must-visit destination for the holiday season.
The town has been lighting the way during the holiday season since the 1950s. And when we say "the town," we mean every residence in town is lit up for the event.
Advertisement
If you attempt to make a count, you'll find in excess of 265 evergreens that are lighted, including the ones that ring the town's lake.
The route is 1.3 miles long and includes a large portion of the lights right along Main Street.
Bundle up this holiday season for a short hike before you visit Christmas Town U.S.A. Combine the South Fork Catawba River with Main Street in McAdenville for a family outing to remember! Learn more about the Pharr Yarns Family Trail from our friends over at AllTrails, and find out everything you need to know, including hours and days the lights are turned on in Christmas Town U.S.A. by visiting the website.
For another great Christmas event happening nearby, make sure to check out the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden’s Holidays At The Garden for a holly jolly good time.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
More to Explore
Christmas Towns In North Carolina
Chris Dodge|November 13, 2023
What are the best Christmas towns in North Carolina?
Some of the best Christmas towns in North Carolina are:
