KIWANIS PARK
KIWANIS PARK
Kiwanis Park is a wonderful escape and anchor to our historic Downtown and Purple Martin Greenway. The Park is part of the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail and the Purple Martin Greenway runs through the heart of the park. Kiwanis is home to a large open green, picnic shelter, bathrooms, dog park, and adventure playground.
MARSHALL PARK
Bring your pup to blow off some steam at the Marshall Dog Park. Located inside Kiwanis Park, this pup recreation space features separate sections for small and large dogs, a doggy water fountain, obstacles, and a few benches for humans.
PURPLE MARTIN GREENWAY
Named after the Purple Martin bird that appeared on General Griffith
Rutherford's family crest, the Purple Martin Greenway is Rutherfordton's first natural trail system. Along this trail you can explore wildlife, creeks, waterfalls and local plant life. The trail is bike, kid and pet friendly as well as handicap accessible. Located just off US Hwy 221, south of downtown Rutherfordton, the greenway is a hidden gem that feels like a true wilderness escape yet has the convenience of being close to shopping and restaurants.
Phase 1 opened in the fall of 2015 and includes an easy .5 mile stroll along Cleghorn Creek complete with picnic shelter and a small creek waterfall. Phase 2 launched in 2017 and added .7 mile to the trail, bringing the total length 1.2 miles. Another .7 mile is scheduled to be added by the end of 2017 extending the trail to almost 2 miles, and connecting it to the Charlotte Rd. which runs perpendicular to Main Street in downtown Rutherfordton.