I’ve put collectively an inventory of 15 of the perfect hikes in Durham, North Carolina. I not too long ago spent numerous time within the area, and being an enormous fan of the outside, I bought to know a number of the greatest trekking that Durham and the encircling areas have to supply.
Nestled within the coronary heart of North Carolina’s Piedmont area, Durham gives a mix of city sophistication and pure magnificence, making it a really perfect gateway for mountaineering adventures. Time spent in and round Durham mountaineering is an effective way to benefit from the area’s beautiful countryside.
From the rolling hills and peaceable lakeshores to the close by Appalachian foothills, Durham has an assortment of trails appropriate for all talent ranges. Whether or not you’re in search of a leisurely stroll or a tougher climb, Durham’s mountaineering trails received’t disappoint.
Finest Hikes in Durham, NC
I really like the outside and have hiked in nations all all over the world. From the beautiful vineyards of Florence to the luxurious forests of Catalunya and the gorgeous mountains of southern California, I like it all, however I discovered the mountaineering trails in Durham to be a few of my all-time favorites.
For me, it doesn’t at all times must be a mega climb to the highest of a mountain, so I’ve compiled my record primarily based on quite a few elements. I’ve thought of features akin to pure magnificence, the standard of the paths, issues to see and do on the best way, ranges of issue, and even how straightforward it’s to park. I’m certain you’ll uncover a number of new wonderful Durham trails to go well with you.
1. Cox Mountain Path at Eno State Park
One of the crucial widespread places to visit in Durham is Eno State Park, which is able to seem a couple of occasions on this record. It gives a number of scenic trails with various ranges of issue and size and a number of the most beautiful surroundings. The Cox Mountain Trail is an effective place to kick issues off. A reasonable to laborious 4-mile roundtrip that showcases the fantastic thing about the Eno River.
My husband and I walked by means of a mixture of dense inexperienced woodland areas, in addition to some rocky terrain, and have been rewarded with beautiful views of the Eno River. The elevation could be a problem in locations, so is maybe higher suited to these in search of extra of a exercise than a stroll. However the well-maintained trails imply it’s not at all out of attain for reasonable hikers.
The Cox Mountain Path is one among my favourite locations to hike in Durham due to the Eno River suspension bridge that options alongside the best way. The 124-foot picket bridge is just not for the faint-hearted because it strikes a little bit with each step as you cross the river. However in fact, it’s secure and safe and is an incredible addition to an already nice hike.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: 6095 State Rd 1569, Durham, NC 27705, United States. Click here for directions to the trailhead.
Size: 4 miles / 6.6 km
Period: 2-2.5 hours
Sort of Path: Round
Elevation Achieve: 123 meters
2. Occoneechee Mountain Loop Path
Many mountaineering trails close to Durham are only a brief drive away. The Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area gives some improbable trails and is simply 20 minutes away in neighboring Hillsborough. The mountain itself is claimed to be the very best peak between Hillsborough and the shoreline to the east, standing at 350 feet above the Eno River.
The longest, and my most popular hike right here, is the Mountain Loop Trail, which at 2.2 miles and a comparatively flat terrain is a simple to medium hike that I’ve seen all ages and skills taking over. Simply be cautious of occasional massive tree roots that may have an effect on the paths. My recommendation is to move off counterclockwise as this can get you nearer to the overlook.
Because the identify suggests, this loop path begins and finishes on the similar place -the car parking zone, the place you’ll discover loads of free-to-park areas. This can be a notably lovely hike in the course of the fall when the leaves start to vary however is equally fulfilling any time of yr.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: 625 Virginia Cates Rd, Hillsborough, NC 27278, United States. Click here for directions to the trailhead.
Size: 2.2 miles / 3.54 km
Period: 1.5-2 hours
Sort of Path: Round
Elevation Achieve: 100 meters
3. Trinity Park to Duke Gardens
For me, top-of-the-line treks in Durham is the hike from Trinity Park to Duke Gardens. That is extra of an city hike of my very own creation however I feel it deserves a spot on this record.
The route begins and finishes in Trinity Park however incorporates a minimize instantly by means of the middle of the Duke East Campus, turning left at 9th Street, earlier than veering off in direction of Duke Gardens.
When you arrive at Duke Gardens, you’ll must think about how a lot vitality you may have in your legs, as you may simply rack up a great few miles strolling round right here. So, regardless of being a really flat, well-maintained stroll, I might class this hike as being of medium issue because of the distances concerned in a there and again journey.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: 410 Watts St, Durham, NC 27701, United States. Click here for directions to the starting point.
Size: 4.2 miles / 6.8 km + 1 lap of Duke Gardens is approx. 1 mile / 1.61 km
Period: 3.5-4.5 hours
Sort of Path: Out and Again
Elevation Achieve: Predominantly flat
4. Hanging Rock Path
Heading a little bit additional out of city, top-of-the-line hikes close to Durham is the Hanging Rock Trail. You’ll need a car to get to this one because it’s a few hours away from Durham, however it’s completely well worth the journey. The massive quartzite rock formation that you simply’ll discover on the finish provides the path its identify. There are additionally beautiful panoramic views of the Piedmont area from right here.
It’s a comparatively brief stroll at 1.3 miles (2.6 miles out and again) however it has some steep elevation features that shouldn’t be taken flippantly. It’s a well-liked strolling route so can get fairly busy at weekends and on holidays however there’s ample parking on the customer’s middle the place the path begins.
One other bonus of the Hanging Rock Path is the hotter temperatures in the course of the colder seasons. Attributable to its geographical location, you may hike year-round. It’s top-of-the-line winter hikes in Durham and the encircling areas.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: 1790 Hanging Rock Park Rd, Danbury, NC 27016, United States. Click here for directions to the trailhead.
Size: 2.6 miles / 4.2 km
Period: 2-3 hours
Sort of Path: Out and Again
Elevation Achieve: 182 meters
5. Hemlock Bluffs
Simply to the south of Durham is Hemlock Bluffs, a novel and ecologically important space because of the uncommon Hemlock trees that develop there. The steep bluffs are north-facing, which protects the bushes from larger temperatures permitting them to develop in a area the place they need to now not be. Round 250 remain, although fossils present traditionally they as soon as thrived on this space.
It’s a well-liked spot for hen watching, enjoyable, or taking light walks, and Hemlock Bluffs gives a number of brief trails and hikes close to Durham. You can make a lengthier hike by combining a few of these easy-to-moderate loop trails.
The longest of the routes is the Chestnut Oak Loop Trail at 1.2 miles, which cuts by means of woods, alongside streams, and previous the massive Hemlock bushes. There are a variety of different shorter trails too, all of which start on the Stevens Nature Center, which offers quite a lot of data on the native space and wildlife.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: 2616 Kildaire Farm Rd, Cary, NC 27518, United States. Click here for directions to the trailhead.
Size: Chestnut Oak Loop Path – 1.2 miles / 1.9km
Period: 25-35 minutes
Sort of Path: Round
Elevation Achieve: 28 meters
6. Holden’s Mill at Eno State Park
Again to Eno State Park for one among my favourite strolling trails in Durham. Taking in some historic buildings, in addition to the water rapids of the Eno River, the Holden’s Mill Trail is a 3.9-mile reasonable hike. Throughout the hotter months, there are additionally good accessible spots for swimming and different water-sport actions alongside the route.
Holden Mill performed a part in the history of the area and was based as a corn, flour, and sawmill in 1811. It might have been a central level for grain manufacturing and a spot for group development and growth. The ruins of the previous water-powered mill, in addition to a couple of smaller barns, add a pleasant historic and academic aspect to this hike which I actually get pleasure from.
As with most trails at Eno State Park, there’s ample parking accessible and clear bathroom amenities on the customer’s middle. The paths are well-maintained and dog-friendly making it an ideal possibility for hikes in Durham with a four-legged good friend.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: Eno State Park, Durham, NC 27705, United States. Click here for directions to the trailhead.
Size: 3.9 miles / 6.3 km
Period: 1.5-2.5 hours
Sort of Path: Round
Elevation Achieve: 112 meters
7. Weymouth Woods
If you happen to’re in search of some straightforward hikes round Durham, then head to Weymouth Woods. Simply 25 minutes to the south is the 900-acre nature reserve dominated by the Long Leaf Pines for which central North Carolina is legendary. Weymouth Woods incorporates a community of predominantly flat trails that permit guests to discover the pine forests.
The Lighter Stump, Pine Barren, and Holly Road Loop path is a well-liked hike at 3.8 miles that mixes three trails to make for a very fulfilling trek. It takes you thru secluded pine forests and near the world’s swamp lands, and also you’ll come throughout varied watering holes alongside the best way.
The thick cover of tall pines offers numerous shade, making this top-of-the-line summer time hikes in Durham. The pines additionally shield you from any sudden rain showers which will all of a sudden seem too – nature positively appears to be like out for you right here!
Path Particulars and Info
Location: Weymouth Woods Sandhills Nature Protect, Apex, NC 27502, USA. Click here for directions to the trailhead.
Size: 3.8 miles / 6.1 km
Period: 1.5-2.5 hours
Sort of Path: Round
Elevation Achieve: 69 meters
8. Piney Mountain to Ms. Browns Loop at Duke Forest
One of many tougher mountaineering trails in Durham is the Piney Moutain to Ms. Brown’s Loop. The mix of two trails makes for a 3.5-mile stroll that takes on some sometimes tough terrain. A part of the route could also be unpassable at sure occasions of the yr resulting from excessive water ranges and must be rigorously thought of throughout or after heavy rainfall.
That being stated, it’s a phenomenal path that leads you thru Duke Forest, an space owned and managed by Duke University. The 7,000-acre website contains varied forest varieties, wetlands, wildlife, streams, and pure areas that make for a really scenic hike.
The Piney Mountain a part of the path entails extra elevation features, whereas Ms. Brown’s Loop is significantly flatter. The routes could be divided to make two shorter walks, however even mixed, I’d think about them solely a reasonable hike. I had no points with bugs however you’ll want to pack bug spray simply in case as I’ve heard Duke Forest could be unhealthy for critters typically.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: Whitfield Rd, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, United States. Click here for directions to the trailhead.
Size: 3.5 miles / 5.6 km
Period: 2-3 hours
Sort of Path: Round
Elevation Achieve: 84 meters
9. Duke East Campus
One of many Durham treks I’m most conversant in is the Duke East Campus Loop. It was actually on my doorstep from where I was staying in Durham. Since I used to be dog-sitting, I walked this loop each different day for 3 months with my Airedale companion, Ladybug. The 1.7-mile lap takes you across the complete circumference of the East Campus and it’s one among my favourite things to do in Durham.
It’s a well-liked strolling and jogging route and the terrain is just about utterly flat. It’s a well-maintained, stone path all the best way round making it straightforward for all types of trekkers. The historic college campus is full of large bushes, open inexperienced areas, immaculate lawns, beautiful structure, and pleasant faces.
Ranging from Trinity Park, I might at all times cease midway round and cross the road for a espresso at one among my favorite cafes in Durham, just like the Mad Hatter Cafe. You can too make the path so long as you want by chopping in at any variety of alcoves or junctures and exploring the well-known campus which dates again to 1925.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: 712 Broad St, Durham, NC 27705, United States. Click here for directions to the trailhead.
Size: 1.7 miles / 2.7 km
Period: 40 mins-1 hour
Sort of Path: Round
Elevation Achieve: Predominantly flat
10. American Tobacco Path
A number of the greatest Durham day hikes could be discovered on the American Tobacco Trail. This 22-mile-long multi-use path runs from central Durham to the smaller city of Apex to the south. It connects quite a few counties and communities alongside the best way with a combination of paved and unpaved paths.
The path will get its identify from its historical past as a tobacco railroad hall. Initially constructed by the American Tobacco Company for the usage of transport tobacco merchandise, the rail fell into disuse and was repurposed as a leisure path.
There are a number of entry factors, so that you don’t should do the entire thing. However you might actually rack up the miles for those who needed to. I’d counsel strolling from the beginning in central Durham to the Hillside entry 2.9 miles away. It gives some lovely surroundings alongside nice terrain and is an effective way to discover a few of Durham’s latest historical past.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: American Tobacco Path, Durham, NC 27701, United States. Click here for directions to the trailhead.
Size: 5.8 miles / 9.33 km
Period: 3-4 hours
Sort of Path: Out and Again
Elevation Achieve: Predominantly flat
11. Falls Lake and Beaver Dam Lake
One other hike of my very own design now, however one that comes with two lovely seashores, two beautiful lakes, and two state recreation areas. Durham strolling trails don’t get a lot nicer than those you’ll discover at Falls Lake and Beaver Dam Lake. My suggestion can be to pack a picnic and permit for normal stops alongside the best way to actually take within the views.
Parking up at Sandling Beach Recreation Area, you can begin by exploring the woodland areas that encompass the gorgeous Sandling Seashore. There are a number of, brief out-and-back paths and trails to get pleasure from. Both sit at one of many many picnic benches right here or start your stroll over to Beaver Dam Lake, which is a smaller expanse of water however equally as spectacular.
The stroll is alongside the principle entrance street to each seashores however site visitors is managed and gradual. Aside from crossing the principle junction between the 2 recreation areas, (a small two-lane nation street), you shouldn’t have any considerations with autos.
Parking is free at sure occasions of the yr in the course of the week. It’s $5-$7 per automobile at weekends and weekdays throughout peak season.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: 14605 Creedmoor Rd, Wake Forest, NC 27587, United States. Click here for directions to the trailhead.
Size: 4 miles / 6.44 km
Period: 1.5-2.5 hours
Sort of Path: Out and Again
Elevation Achieve: Predominantly flat
12. Decrease Cascade Falls
If you happen to’re in search of waterfall hikes close to Durham, then take a look at Lower Cascade Falls. A comparatively straightforward and brief stroll that leads you to some improbable falls on the finish of the path. At round 20 ft tall, it’s not the biggest waterfall in North Carolina by any stretch, however its magnificence and tranquil environment are nicely well worth the journey.
The 20-minute stroll from the parking space is usually flat and pretty simple however does embody fairly a couple of stairs. The water across the Falls additionally makes for an ideal swimming spot, particularly in the course of the summer time months. It’s a brief however serene hike that can make you glad you may have a digicam in your cellphone!
Parking can typically be tough, so I like to recommend you head out early if attainable. Weekdays are at all times prone to be quieter and are my advisable occasions to go to the Falls.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: Cascades Rd, Walnut Cove, NC 27052, United States. Click here for directions to the trailhead.
Size: 0.7 miles / 1.1 km
Period: 15-20 minutes
Sort of Path: Out and Again
Elevation Achieve: 28 meters
13. Wilmington Riverwalk
A few hours’ drive to the east of Durham is the great metropolis of Wilmington, NC. It’s identified for its historic downtown space, cultural points of interest, and proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. Located on the Cape Fear River it’s a very nice metropolis and is value touring out to for a number of the greatest day hikes round Durham.
Beginning in downtown Wilmington and operating alongside the Cape Concern River is a scenic promenade that provides beautiful views of the river, boats, and the historic district of town. The pedestrian walkway has loads of locations to chop again into city for refreshments. It’s additionally lined with benches excellent for fast stops and people-watching.
Whereas in a roundabout way on the riverwalk, the World Battle II battleship USS North Carolina is positioned close by and could be simply accessed from the waterfront. It’s a well-liked vacationer attraction and a pleasant piece of historical past that may simply be added to the stroll. The Wilmington Riverwalk, although not overly difficult is among the greatest hikes round Durham.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: Wilmington Downtown Riverwalk, Wilmington, NC 28401, United States. Click here for directions to the trailhead.
Size: 3.5 miles / 5.6 km
Period: 2-2.5 hours
Sort of Path: Out and Again
Elevation Achieve: Predominantly flat
14. Brumley Forest Nature Protect North
A few my favourite mountaineering trails close to Durham are discovered at Brumley Forest Nature Reserve, only a brief hop to the south of Durham. The character reserve has a few nice trails that soak up lovely woodlands, streams, and native North Carolina vegetation.
The north route is a reasonable stroll over well-maintained paths, nonetheless, they’ll get fairly muddy after heavy rain. It’s advisable to put on good strolling boots or plan forward primarily based on the climate.
The route is well-signposted all through and gives some great wildlife-spotting alternatives. Although I didn’t see any, buddies have reported seeing deer on the stroll beforehand – preserve a glance out!
There’s not a lot of an elevation achieve alongside the route, making it an accessible stroll for many ranges of health. Alongside the best way, you’ll discover loads of picnic benches and locations to relaxation weary legs ought to you might want to.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: 3055 New Hope Church Rd, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, United States. Click here for directions to the trailhead.
Size: 3.2 miles / 5.1 km
Period: 1.5-2.5 hours
Sort of Path: Round
Elevation Achieve: 35 meters
15. Buckquarter Creek Path
There’s a great deal of good mountaineering in Durham and on most trails, you’ll discover the choice to take a shorter route or make your hike tougher. Eno State Park is actually top-of-the-line locations to go for Durham mountaineering so it’s been fairly prevalent on my record. The Buckquarter Creek Trail is one other nice instance of a phenomenal scenic forest and river stroll.
With reasonable elevation features and a route that’s just about half forest and half riverside, this 1.5-mile round route is a pleasant possibility for getting some contemporary air and train. It might simply be mixed with any variety of Eno River walks to cowl a larger distance.
At sure occasions of the yr, you’re even in a position to stroll throughout the Eno River because the water degree is so low. It’s an ideal place to dip your ft within the mighty river however be cautious and observe any warning indicators.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: 6101 Cole Mill Rd, Durham, NC 27705, United States. Click here for directions to the trailhead.
Size: 1.5 miles / 2.4 km
Period: 45 mins-1.5 hours
Sort of Path: Round
Elevation Achieve: 43 meters
The place to Keep in Durham for Mountaineering
These are a couple of of the best neighborhoods and areas in and around Durham, which make for excellent bases when mountaineering across the metropolis:
Downtown Durham
Downtown Durham is a superb place to remain for those who like having loads of bars and excellent restaurants in your doorstep. It’s a very vigorous space that’s house to quite a few iconic Durham institutions akin to The Blue Note Grill and Kings Sandwich Shop. In every single place is definitely walkable and it’s a safe and pleasant place that additionally has an arcade, coffee shops, and breweries.
Right here, you’ll additionally discover the Historic Durham Bulls Athletic Park, the previous house of the Durham Bulls baseball group and an iconic landmark for town. It was used because the setting for the 80’s cult movie Bull Durham starring Kevin Costner and Susan Sarandon.
Take a look at this great apartment. It’s ideally positioned near every thing Downtown and even features a swimming pool. Click here to find out more.
Trinity Park
Trinity Park is predominantly a residential space however is located completely for all Durham has to supply. A ten-minute stroll from Downtown and near the historic Warehouse District, residents and visitors have a little bit of every thing in Trinity Park. Duke East Campus is just some minutes’ stroll away too, so there’s loads of historical past and tradition on this space.
The quiet, tree-lined streets and spectacular homes create an actual group vibe. There are additionally quite a few church buildings, faculties, and parks.
There are lots of nice cottages, residences, and houses to hire in Trinity Park however for those who’re in search of a lodge, take a look at this nice possibility and condominium advanced by Marriott. Click here to find out more.
Southpoint
Southpoint is located round 6 miles exterior of central Durham however is one other nice space to remain. Not solely is it so near The Streets at Southpoint, an enormous shopping center advanced and hub for eating places and occasions, however it’s additionally positioned for a number of the greatest mountaineering in Durham.
With nice entry to RDU International Airport, and Research Triangle Park, there are lots of causes to think about staying a little bit additional out of city.
There are some nice lodge choices in Southpoint, one among which is the Hilton Garden Inn which has a health middle, indoor pool, and free parking. Click here to learn more.
Mountaineering in Durham: FAQs
Listed here are some solutions to generally requested questions on the perfect hikes in Durham:
The Cox Mountain Loop Trail is arguably one of the crucial widespread hikes in Durham. Positioned on the lovely Eno River State Park, it’s each a river and forest hike that’s understandably widespread with guests. There are quite a few nice trails to be discovered across the Eno River.
Weymouth Woods is a superb place to go for some well-maintained and regular trails with minimal elevation features. Right here, you’ll discover many brief routes that may be added collectively to make longer hikes if you want. Weymouth Woods is house to round 250 Lengthy Leaf Pines, a uncommon tree for this space of North Carolina.
Lower Cascade Falls is a superb spot to see a waterfall throughout a hike. The Falls are round 20 ft tall and aren’t the most important in North Carolina, however are a spectacular sight that makes for a wonderful addition to any outing. Decrease Cascade Falls could be reached by a reasonably simple 20-minute stroll that features quite a few steps.
All the time put on sturdy mountaineering sneakers as the vast majority of the favored trails, though well-maintained, are nonetheless usually rugged, muddy, and have uneven terrain. Pay attention to the climate and admire that issues can change rapidly. Waterproofs and heat clothes are a necessity if climbing any critical elevation or mountaineering an extended distance.
Durham mountaineering gives so many lovely trails. Nevertheless it’s powerful to beat the fantastic thing about Eno River State Park which ranked in my record of high issues to do in Durham general. The majestic river and beautiful landscapes round it provide many trails and hikes that cater to all ranges of health and skill, making it one of the crucial lovely hikes in Durham.
All mountaineering presents parts of hazard and Durham mountaineering is not any exception. Climate patterns can change rapidly on this a part of North Carolina, and storms can blow in with minimal discover. Paths can turn into un-walkable and visibility can diminish quick.
The warmth may also be an issue as temperatures can attain as excessive as 97°F in the summertime months. All the time plan forward, know your route, persist with designated trails, and pack accordingly on your hike.
One of many greatest hikes in Durham is the American Tobacco Trail. What was as soon as an previous railroad hall, constructed primarily for the motion of tobacco merchandise, is now repurposed as a multi-use path and historic leisure walkway. It begins in central Durham and continues over 22 miles with many entry factors alongside the best way.
The American Tobacco Trail is roughly 22.6 miles lengthy. Beginning in central Durham and resulting in Apex, NC to the south. The path takes in quite a few counties alongside the best way and has a number of entry factors for hikers and leisure guests.
Initially constructed as a railroad hall, the American Tobacco Path was utilized by American Tobacco for the transport of tobacco merchandise.
Durham has a rich history with tobacco and most of the warehouses and factories that after performed an enormous position in tobacco manufacturing nonetheless stay right now. They’ve principally been repurposed as bars, eating places, workplaces, and housing.
The path doesn’t have set opening or closing occasions because it’s a public path that runs by means of many counties and entry factors. It’s advisable to stroll in the course of the day when it’s most secure and there’s good mild to benefit from the surroundings.
In Closing
Durham mountaineering is a number of the greatest I’ve but to expertise. It has a mixture of trails to go well with each means and a various panorama that presents new delights each time you head out. From waterfalls to mountain peaks, and forest paths to river walks, Durham and the encircling areas have trails for everybody to get pleasure from.
I personally love having a component of historical past and tradition throughout a hike and Durham has this in abundance. With a wealthy industrial previous, and the massive Duke College within the metropolis, the choice for city walks in addition to rural hikes is a significant profit to Durham.
I actually loved mountaineering in Durham and I’m certain you’ll discover loads of nice trails to maintain you busy too.
