I’ve put collectively a listing of 15 of the perfect hikes in Durham, North Carolina. I lately spent a variety of time within the area, and being an enormous fan of the outside, I acquired to know a number of the greatest trekking that Durham and the encompassing 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 super gateway for mountaineering adventures. Time spent in and round Durham mountaineering is a good way to benefit from the area’s gorgeous 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 searching for a leisurely stroll or a more difficult climb, Durham’s mountaineering trails gained’t disappoint.
Finest Hikes in Durham, NC
I really like the outside and have hiked in international locations all world wide. From the gorgeous vineyards of Florence to the plush 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 should be a mega climb to the highest of a mountain, so I’ve compiled my listing based mostly on a lot of components. I’ve thought of features similar to pure magnificence, the standard of the paths, issues to see and do on the way in which, ranges of problem, and even how simple it’s to park. I’m positive 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 standard locations to go to in Durham is Eno State Park, which can seem a couple of instances on this listing. It gives a number of scenic trails with various ranges of problem and size and a number of the most gorgeous surroundings. The Cox Mountain Path is an efficient place to kick issues off. A average to exhausting 4-mile roundtrip that showcases the great thing about the Eno River.
My husband and I walked by a mixture of dense inexperienced woodland areas, in addition to some rocky terrain, and have been rewarded with gorgeous views of the Eno River. The elevation is usually a problem in locations, so is maybe higher suited to these looking for extra of a exercise than a stroll. However the well-maintained trails imply it’s on no account out of attain for average hikers.
The Cox Mountain Path is one in all my favourite locations to hike in Durham due to the Eno River suspension bridge that options alongside the way in which. The 124-foot picket bridge will not be for the faint-hearted because it strikes a bit of 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 on right here for instructions to the trailhead.
Size: 4 miles / 6.6 km
Period: 2-2.5 hours
Kind of Path: Round
Elevation Acquire: 123 meters
2. Occoneechee Mountain Loop Path
Many mountaineering trails close to Durham are only a quick drive away. The Occoneechee Mountain State Pure Space gives some unbelievable trails and is simply 20 minutes away in neighboring Hillsborough. The mountain itself is alleged to be the best peak between Hillsborough and the shoreline to the east, standing at 350 toes above the Eno River.
The longest, and my most well-liked hike right here, is the Mountain Loop Path, which at 2.2 miles and a comparatively flat terrain is a simple to medium hike that I’ve seen all ages and talents taking over. Simply be cautious of occasional massive tree roots that may have an effect on the paths. My recommendation is to go off counterclockwise as this may get you nearer to the overlook.
Because the title suggests, this loop path begins and finishes on the similar place -the parking zone, the place you’ll discover loads of free-to-park areas. This can be a significantly stunning hike throughout the fall when the leaves start to alter however is equally pleasurable any time of 12 months.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: 625 Virginia Cates Rd, Hillsborough, NC 27278, United States. Click on right here for instructions to the trailhead.
Size: 2.2 miles / 3.54 km
Period: 1.5-2 hours
Kind of Path: Round
Elevation Acquire: 100 meters
3. Trinity Park to Duke Gardens
For me, the most effective 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 listing.
The route begins and finishes in Trinity Park however incorporates a lower immediately by the middle of the Duke East Campus, turning left at ninth Avenue, earlier than veering off in direction of Duke Gardens.
When you arrive at Duke Gardens, you’ll must consider how a lot vitality you could have in your legs, as you’ll be able to simply rack up an excellent few miles strolling round right here. So, regardless of being a really flat, well-maintained stroll, I’d class this hike as being of medium problem as a result of distances concerned in a there and again journey.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: 410 Watts St, Durham, NC 27701, United States. Click on right here for instructions to the place to begin.
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
Kind of Path: Out and Again
Elevation Acquire: Predominantly flat
4. Hanging Rock Path
Heading a bit of additional out of city, the most effective hikes close to Durham is the Hanging Rock Path. You’ll want a automotive to get to this one because it’s a few hours away from Durham, but it surely’s completely well worth the journey. The big quartzite rock formation that you simply’ll discover on the finish provides the path its title. There are additionally gorgeous panoramic views of the Piedmont area from right here.
It’s a comparatively quick stroll at 1.3 miles (2.6 miles out and again) but it surely has some steep elevation beneficial properties 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 throughout the colder seasons. Because of its geographical location, you’ll be able to hike year-round. It’s the most effective winter hikes in Durham and the encompassing areas.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: 1790 Hanging Rock Park Rd, Danbury, NC 27016, United States. Click on right here for instructions to the trailhead.
Size: 2.6 miles / 4.2 km
Period: 2-3 hours
Kind of Path: Out and Again
Elevation Acquire: 182 meters
5. Hemlock Bluffs
Simply to the south of Durham is Hemlock Bluffs, a singular and ecologically important space as a result of uncommon Hemlock bushes that develop there. The steep bluffs are north-facing, which protects the bushes from increased temperatures permitting them to develop in a area the place they need to not be. Round 250 stay, although fossils present traditionally they as soon as thrived on this space.
It’s a well-liked spot for chicken watching, enjoyable, or taking light walks, and Hemlock Bluffs gives a number of quick trails and hikes close to Durham. You would 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 Path at 1.2 miles, which cuts by woods, alongside streams, and previous the massive Hemlock bushes. There are a selection of different shorter trails too, all of which start on the Stevens Nature Heart, which supplies an excessive amount of data on the native space and wildlife.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: 2616 Kildaire Farm Rd, Cary, NC 27518, United States. Click on right here for instructions to the trailhead.
Size: Chestnut Oak Loop Path – 1.2 miles / 1.9km
Period: 25-35 minutes
Kind of Path: Round
Elevation Acquire: 28 meters
6. Holden’s Mill at Eno State Park
Again to Eno State Park for one in all 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 Path is a 3.9-mile average hike. In the course of the hotter months, there are additionally good accessible spots for swimming and different water-sport actions alongside the route.
Holden Mill performed a component within the historical past 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 neighborhood development and improvement. The ruins of the outdated water-powered mill, in addition to a couple of smaller barns, add a pleasant historic and academic factor to this hike which I actually get pleasure from.
As with most trails at Eno State Park, there’s ample parking out there and clear bathroom services on the customer’s middle. The paths are well-maintained and dog-friendly making it a fantastic possibility for hikes in Durham with a four-legged pal.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: Eno State Park, Durham, NC 27705, United States. Click on right here for instructions to the trailhead.
Size: 3.9 miles / 6.3 km
Period: 1.5-2.5 hours
Kind of Path: Round
Elevation Acquire: 112 meters
7. Weymouth Woods
If you happen to’re searching for some simple hikes round Durham, then head to Weymouth Woods. Simply 25 minutes to the south is the 900-acre nature reserve dominated by the Lengthy Leaf Pines for which central North Carolina is known. Weymouth Woods includes a community of predominantly flat trails that enable guests to discover the pine forests.
The Lighter Stump, Pine Barren, and Holly Street Loop path is a well-liked hike at 3.8 miles that mixes three trails to make for a very pleasurable 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 way in which.
The thick cover of tall pines supplies a lot of shade, making this the most effective summer season hikes in Durham. The pines additionally defend you from any sudden rain showers which will immediately 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 on right here for instructions to the trailhead.
Size: 3.8 miles / 6.1 km
Period: 1.5-2.5 hours
Kind of Path: Round
Elevation Acquire: 69 meters
8. Piney Mountain to Ms. Browns Loop at Duke Forest
One of many more difficult mountaineering trails in Durham is the Piney Moutain to Ms. Brown’s Loop. The mixture of two trails makes for a 3.5-mile stroll that takes on some sometimes troublesome terrain. A part of the route could also be unpassable at sure instances of the 12 months as a consequence of excessive water ranges and must be rigorously thought of throughout or after heavy rainfall.
That being mentioned, it’s a phenomenal path that leads you thru Duke Forest, an space owned and managed by Duke College. The 7,000-acre website contains varied forest sorts, wetlands, wildlife, streams, and pure areas that make for a really scenic hike.
The Piney Mountain a part of the path includes extra elevation beneficial properties, whereas Ms. Brown’s Loop is significantly flatter. The routes might be divided to make two shorter walks, however even mixed, I’d contemplate them solely a average hike. I had no points with bugs however make sure you pack bug spray simply in case as I’ve heard Duke Forest might be dangerous for critters generally.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: Whitfield Rd, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, United States. Click on right here for instructions to the trailhead.
Size: 3.5 miles / 5.6 km
Period: 2-3 hours
Kind of Path: Round
Elevation Acquire: 84 meters
9. Duke East Campus
One of many Durham treks I’m most aware of is the Duke East Campus Loop. It was actually on my doorstep from the place I used to be 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 in all my favourite issues 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 way in which round making it simple for all types of trekkers. The historic college campus is full of enormous bushes, open inexperienced areas, immaculate lawns, beautiful structure, and pleasant faces.
Ranging from Trinity Park, I’d at all times cease midway round and cross the road for a espresso at one in all my favourite cafes in Durham, just like the Mad Hatter Cafe. You can even 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 on right here for instructions to the trailhead.
Size: 1.7 miles / 2.7 km
Period: 40 mins-1 hour
Kind of Path: Round
Elevation Acquire: Predominantly flat
10. American Tobacco Path
Among the greatest Durham day hikes might be discovered on the American Tobacco Path. 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 way in which with a combination of paved and unpaved paths.
The path will get its title from its historical past as a tobacco railroad hall. Initially constructed by the American Tobacco Firm 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 need to do the entire thing. However you might actually rack up the miles for those who wished to. I’d recommend strolling from the beginning in central Durham to the Hillside entry 2.9 miles away. It gives some stunning surroundings alongside nice terrain and is a good 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 on right here for instructions to the trailhead.
Size: 5.8 miles / 9.33 km
Period: 3-4 hours
Kind of Path: Out and Again
Elevation Acquire: Predominantly flat
11. Falls Lake and Beaver Dam Lake
One other hike of my very own design now, however one that includes two stunning seashores, two gorgeous 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 could be to pack a picnic and permit for normal stops alongside the way in which to actually take within the views.
Parking up at Sandling Seaside Recreation Space, you can begin by exploring the woodland areas that encompass the gorgeous Sandling Seaside. There are a number of, quick 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 visitors is managed and gradual. Apart from crossing the principle junction between the 2 recreation areas, (a small two-lane nation street), you shouldn’t have any issues with automobiles.
Parking is free at sure instances of the 12 months throughout the week. It’s $5-$7 per automotive at weekends and weekdays throughout peak season.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: 14605 Creedmoor Rd, Wake Forest, NC 27587, United States. Click on right here for instructions to the trailhead.
Size: 4 miles / 6.44 km
Period: 1.5-2.5 hours
Kind of Path: Out and Again
Elevation Acquire: Predominantly flat
12. Decrease Cascade Falls
If you happen to’re searching for waterfall hikes close to Durham, then take a look at Decrease Cascade Falls. A comparatively simple and quick stroll that leads you to some unbelievable falls on the finish of the path. At round 20 toes tall, it’s not the largest waterfall in North Carolina by any stretch, however its magnificence and tranquil environment are effectively 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 a fantastic swimming spot, particularly throughout the summer season months. It’s a brief however serene hike that may make you glad you could have a digital camera in your cellphone!
Parking can generally be tough, so I like to recommend you head out early if potential. Weekdays are at all times prone to be quieter and are my beneficial instances to go to the Falls.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: Cascades Rd, Walnut Cove, NC 27052, United States. Click on right here for instructions to the trailhead.
Size: 0.7 miles / 1.1 km
Period: 15-20 minutes
Kind of Path: Out and Again
Elevation Acquire: 28 meters
13. Wilmington Riverwalk
A few hours’ drive to the east of Durham is the fantastic metropolis of Wilmington, NC. It’s recognized for its historic downtown space, cultural sights, and proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. Located on the Cape Concern River it’s a very nice metropolis and is price touring out to for a number of the greatest day hikes round Durham.
Beginning in downtown Wilmington and working alongside the Cape Concern River is a scenic promenade that gives gorgeous 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 Struggle II battleship USS North Carolina is situated close by and might 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 on right here for instructions to the trailhead.
Size: 3.5 miles / 5.6 km
Period: 2-2.5 hours
Kind of Path: Out and Again
Elevation Acquire: 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 quick hop to the south of Durham. The character reserve has a few nice trails that absorb stunning woodlands, streams, and native North Carolina plants.
The north route is a average stroll over well-maintained paths, nonetheless, they will get fairly muddy after heavy rain. It’s advisable to put on good strolling boots or plan forward based mostly on the climate.
The route is well-signposted all through and gives some large 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 way in which, you’ll discover loads of picnic benches and locations to relaxation weary legs ought to it is advisable to.
Path Particulars and Info
Location: 3055 New Hope Church Rd, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, United States. Click on right here for instructions to the trailhead.
Size: 3.2 miles / 5.1 km
Period: 1.5-2.5 hours
Kind of Path: Round
Elevation Acquire: 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 more difficult. Eno State Park is actually the most effective locations to go for Durham mountaineering so it’s been fairly prevalent on my listing. The Buckquarter Creek Path is one other nice instance of a phenomenal scenic forest and river stroll.
With average elevation beneficial properties 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 recent air and train. It might simply be mixed with any variety of Eno River walks to cowl a better distance.
At sure instances of the 12 months, you’re even capable of stroll throughout the Eno River because the water degree is so low. It’s a fantastic place to dip your toes 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 on right here for instructions to the trailhead.
Size: 1.5 miles / 2.4 km
Period: 45 mins-1.5 hours
Kind of Path: Round
Elevation Acquire: 43 meters
The place to Keep in Durham for Mountaineering
These are a couple of of the perfect neighborhoods and areas in and round Durham, which make for nice bases when mountaineering across the metropolis:
Downtown Durham
Downtown Durham is a good place to remain for those who like having loads of bars and wonderful eating places in your doorstep. It’s a very vigorous space that’s dwelling to a lot of iconic Durham institutions similar to The Blue Notice Grill and Kings Sandwich Store. All over the place is definitely walkable and it’s a secure and pleasant place that additionally has an arcade, espresso retailers, and breweries.
Right here, you’ll additionally discover the Historic Durham Bulls Athletic Park, the previous dwelling of the Durham Bulls baseball crew 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 nice house. It’s ideally situated near all the pieces Downtown and even features a swimming pool. Click on right here to seek out out extra.
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 friends have a little bit of all the pieces in Trinity Park. Duke East Campus is only a few 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 neighborhood vibe. There are additionally a lot of church buildings, colleges, and parks.
There are lots of nice cottages, residences, and houses to hire in Trinity Park however for those who’re searching for a resort, take a look at this nice possibility and house advanced by Marriott. Click on right here to seek out out extra.
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, but it surely’s additionally positioned for a number of the greatest mountaineering in Durham.
With nice entry to RDU Worldwide Airport, and Analysis Triangle Park, there are lots of causes to think about staying a bit of additional out of city.
There are some nice resort choices in Southpoint, one in all which is the Hilton Backyard Inn which has a health middle, indoor pool, and free parking. Click on right here to study extra.
Mountaineering in Durham: FAQs
Listed below are some solutions to generally requested questions on the perfect hikes in Durham:
The Cox Mountain Loop Path is arguably one of the crucial standard hikes in Durham. Positioned on the stunning Eno River State Park, it’s each a river and forest hike that’s understandably standard with guests. There are quite a few nice trails to be discovered across the Eno River.
Weymouth Woods is a good place to go for some well-maintained and regular trails with minimal elevation beneficial properties. Right here, you’ll discover many quick routes that may be added collectively to make longer hikes if you want. Weymouth Woods is dwelling to round 250 Lengthy Leaf Pines, a uncommon tree for this space of North Carolina.
Decrease Cascade Falls is a good spot to see a waterfall throughout a hike. The Falls are round 20 toes tall and aren’t the largest in North Carolina, however are a spectacular sight that makes for a wonderful addition to any outing. Decrease Cascade Falls might be reached by a reasonably simple 20-minute stroll that features a lot of steps.
All the time put on sturdy mountaineering footwear as nearly all of the favored trails, though well-maintained, are nonetheless usually rugged, muddy, and have uneven terrain. Pay attention to the climate and recognize that issues can change shortly. Waterproofs and heat clothes are a necessity if climbing any severe elevation or mountaineering an extended distance.
Durham mountaineering gives so many stunning trails. However it’s robust to beat the great thing about Eno River State Park which ranked in my listing of prime issues to do in Durham total. The majestic river and gorgeous landscapes round it supply many trails and hikes that cater to all ranges of health and talent, making it one of the crucial stunning hikes in Durham.
All mountaineering presents components of hazard and Durham mountaineering isn’t any exception. Climate patterns can change shortly on this a part of North Carolina, and storms can blow in with minimal discover. Paths can change 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, follow designated trails, and pack accordingly to your hike.
One of many largest hikes in Durham is the American Tobacco Path. What was as soon as an outdated 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 way in which.
The American Tobacco Path 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 way in which 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 wealthy historical past with tobacco and most of the warehouses and factories that when performed an enormous function in tobacco manufacturing nonetheless stay right now. They’ve principally been repurposed as bars, eating places, places of work, and housing.
The path doesn’t have set opening or closing instances because it’s a public path that runs by many counties and entry factors. It’s advisable to stroll throughout 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 potential 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 encompassing 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 positive you’ll discover loads of nice trails to maintain you busy too.
