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Ed Lastein Perimeter Trail

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Hiking trails & Routes

Ed Lastein Perimeter Trail

Easy

5.0

(5934)

5,935

hikers

Ed Lastein Perimeter Trail

Q: What is the difficulty level of the Ed Lastein Perimeter Trail?

The trail is considered easy , characterized by its largely flat terrain. It's suitable for a wide range of hikers, including beginners and families.

Q: How long does it typically take to hike this trail?

The Ed Lastein Perimeter Trail is approximately 2.5 kilometers long and generally takes around 40 minutes to complete at a moderate hiking pace.

Q: Is the Ed Lastein Perimeter Trail a loop?

Yes, the Ed Lastein Perimeter Trail is designed as a loop, offering a continuous circuit within The Park at Flat Rock.

Q: Where can I park to access the trail?

Parking is available at The Park at Flat Rock . The trail is easily accessible from the park's main areas, which also feature a tot lot near the parking area.

Q: What kind of scenery can I expect along the trail?

You can expect pleasant natural scenery, including small lakes that function as rain gardens with unique native plants. There's also a pollinator garden and 66 acres of open green space.

Q: What wildlife might I encounter on the trail?

The rain gardens along the trail are home to various animals, and the pollinator garden attracts insects. A nature pavilion provides opportunities to learn more about the local wildlife.

Q: Are there any specific points of interest along the route?

Yes, along the route, you'll find rain gardens, a pollinator garden, and a nature pavilion. The trail is situated within The Park at Flat Rock , which also offers picnic pavilions and playgrounds.

Q: Is the trail suitable for families with children?

Absolutely. The trail's easy, flat terrain and the amenities at The Park at Flat Rock , such as playgrounds and a tot lot, make it a very family-friendly destination.

Q: Is the Ed Lastein Perimeter Trail dog-friendly?

While the trail is generally dog-friendly, it's always best to check specific leash rules and regulations for The Park at Flat Rock before your visit to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.

Q: Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee to use the trail or enter The Park at Flat Rock?

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access the Ed Lastein Perimeter Trail or to enter The Park at Flat Rock . It's a public community park.

00:38

2.47km

10m

Hiking

The Ed Lastein Perimeter Trail offers a delightful, easy loop through The Park at Flat Rock, perfect for a quick nature fix. As you follow the 1.5-mile (2.5 km) path, you'll encounter serene small lakes, a vibrant pollinator garden, and a nature pavilion, all set within dense woodlands. With only 35 feet (11 metres) of elevation gain, this route is more of a leisurely walk, taking approximately 38 minutes to complete, and is ideal for observing local wildlife.

Planning your visit to the Ed Lastein Perimeter Trail is straightforward, as it's well-integrated into The Park at Flat Rock. You'll find ample parking and easy trailhead access, making it a convenient choice for a spontaneous outing. This family-friendly trail is accessible year-round, and its gentle terrain makes it a great beginner hike for all ages, with plenty of space for kids to play nearby.

This perimeter loop is a central feature of the 66-acre Park at Flat Rock, a former golf club transformed into a community green space. Beyond the Ed Lastein Perimeter Trail, a network of other well-maintained trails allows you to customize your walk. The park provides a home for a variety of indigenous animals and plants, offering a peaceful natural setting in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Last updated: June 9, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

33 m

The Park at Flat Rock

Highlight • Rest Area

The Park at Flat Rock has pavilions, playgrounds, a ton of open space, and walking/running trails. The village of Flat Rock manages the park, which is open during daylight all year long. The path circling the entire park is known as the Ed Lastein Perimeter Trail, but there are various other trails cutting through the park that are well maintained as well.

Tip by

2.47 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

2.40 km

< 100 m

Surfaces

Elevation

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Weather

Friday 17 July

32°C

19°C

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This route was planned by komoot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difficulty level of the Ed Lastein Perimeter Trail?

The trail is considered easy, characterized by its largely flat terrain. It's suitable for a wide range of hikers, including beginners and families.

How long does it typically take to hike this trail?

The Ed Lastein Perimeter Trail is approximately 2.5 kilometers long and generally takes around 40 minutes to complete at a moderate hiking pace.

Is the Ed Lastein Perimeter Trail a loop?

Yes, the Ed Lastein Perimeter Trail is designed as a loop, offering a continuous circuit within The Park at Flat Rock.

Where can I park to access the trail?

Parking is available at The Park at Flat Rock. The trail is easily accessible from the park's main areas, which also feature a tot lot near the parking area.

What kind of scenery can I expect along the trail?

You can expect pleasant natural scenery, including small lakes that function as rain gardens with unique native plants. There's also a pollinator garden and 66 acres of open green space.

What wildlife might I encounter on the trail?

The rain gardens along the trail are home to various animals, and the pollinator garden attracts insects. A nature pavilion provides opportunities to learn more about the local wildlife.

Are there any specific points of interest along the route?

Yes, along the route, you'll find rain gardens, a pollinator garden, and a nature pavilion. The trail is situated within The Park at Flat Rock, which also offers picnic pavilions and playgrounds.

Is the trail suitable for families with children?

Absolutely. The trail's easy, flat terrain and the amenities at The Park at Flat Rock, such as playgrounds and a tot lot, make it a very family-friendly destination.

Is the Ed Lastein Perimeter Trail dog-friendly?

While the trail is generally dog-friendly, it's always best to check specific leash rules and regulations for The Park at Flat Rock before your visit to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.

Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee to use the trail or enter The Park at Flat Rock?

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access the Ed Lastein Perimeter Trail or to enter The Park at Flat Rock. It's a public community park.

What is the best time of year to hike this trail?

Given the trail's natural features like rain gardens and a pollinator garden, spring and summer offer vibrant displays of native plants and active wildlife. However, its accessible nature makes it enjoyable year-round.