The 6 Best Hikes of North Carolina

From the mountains to the sea, North Carolina is the site of some of the best hikes in the Southeastern United States. You can enjoy mountain foot bridges, flower lined paths through Piedmont gardens, or the sandy treks along the coastline. So put on your hiking shoes and begin your adventure.

1. At the Salem Lake in Eastern Winston-Salem, you will find the 7 mile Salem Lake Trail which, if you wish, can be lengthened by following connecting trails like the 4.5 greenway or the 3.2 mile round trip to Reynolds Park Road. Along the way, there are fishing spots, picnic areas, shorelines and densely populated woods.
2. The Nat Greene Trail in Greensboro is part of the Greensboro Watershed Trails. The Nat Green is a 3.2 mile trek through the forest, past a quiet waterway and a series of railroad tie bogs. This is a great trail to take children on.
3. Greensboro’s Gardens areas- The Arboretum, the Bog Garden and the Bicentennial Gardens offer bluff overlooks, pocket gardens, fountains and 28 numbered stations with corresponding flowers. Spend an afternoon following the trails and enjoying the quiet beauty of nature.
4. The Piedmont Environmental Center in High Point has an elaborate 11 mile trail network. Its longest trail, the 2.5 mile loop Bill Faver Lakeshore Trail meanders through wooded areas and quiet coves. Along the Raccoon Run Trail, the Dogwood Trail and the Fiddlehead Trail you can see the remains of an old homestead, assorted wildlife, area wildflowers and lush greenery.
5. The Eno River Area of Orange County is a favorite for long hikes as well as day hikes. You will find wooded groves like those of the Cox Mountain Trail, creek side hikes along Holden’s Mill and Buckquarter Creek, as well as an assortment of scenic overlooks.
6. Nags Head Woods Ecological Preserve offers 6 trails to explore. The hikes range from a short stroll to hikes that will take over an hour. As you explore this coastal region you will see lighthouses, freshwater ponds, saltwater marshes, wooded dunes, and scenic preserves.

These are just a few of the best hikes in North Carolina. So, grab your gear and start exploring the beautiful countryside of North Carolina.