I’ve put collectively a listing of 15 of one of the best hikes in Durham, North Carolina. I not too long ago spent a variety of time within the area, and being an enormous fan of the outside, I received to know a few of the finest 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 on the lookout for 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 international locations all all over the world. From the beautiful vineyards of Florence to the plush forests of Catalunya and the attractive 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 all the time must be a mega climb to the highest of a mountain, so I’ve compiled my listing primarily based on numerous elements. I’ve thought of facets akin to pure magnificence, the standard of the paths, issues to see and do on the way in which, ranges of problem, and even how straightforward it’s to park. I’m positive you’ll uncover a number of new wonderful Durham trails to swimsuit you.
1. Cox Mountain Path at Eno State Park
One of the standard locations to go to in Durham is Eno State Park, which is able to seem a couple of occasions on this listing. It gives a number of scenic trails with various ranges of problem and size and a few of the most beautiful surroundings. The Cox Mountain Path is an effective place to kick issues off. A average 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 generally is a problem in locations, so is probably higher suited to these looking for extra of a exercise than a stroll. However the well-maintained trails imply it’s in no way 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 wood bridge is just not for the faint-hearted because it strikes a bit with each step as you cross the river. However after all, it’s protected and safe and is a tremendous addition to an already nice hike.
Path Particulars and Data
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
Length: 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 brief 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 claimed 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 popular 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 skills taking over. Simply be cautious of occasional huge tree roots that may have an effect on the paths. My recommendation is to move 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 car parking zone, the place you’ll discover loads of free-to-park areas. This can be a significantly lovely hike through the fall when the leaves start to alter however is equally pleasant any time of 12 months.
Path Particulars and Data
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
Length: 1.5-2 hours
Kind of Path: Round
Elevation Acquire: 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 believe it deserves a spot on this listing.
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 ninth Avenue, earlier than veering off in the direction of Duke Gardens.
When you arrive at Duke Gardens, you’ll have to consider how a lot power you could have in your legs, as you possibly can simply rack up a great 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 Data
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
Length: 3.5-4.5 hours
Kind of Path: Out and Again
Elevation Acquire: Predominantly flat
4. Hanging Rock Path
Heading a bit additional out of city, top-of-the-line 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, nevertheless it’s completely well worth the journey. The big quartzite rock formation that you just’ll discover on the finish provides the path its title. 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) nevertheless it has some steep elevation good points that shouldn’t be taken evenly. It’s a preferred 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 through the colder seasons. Attributable to its geographical location, you possibly can hike year-round. It’s top-of-the-line winter hikes in Durham and the encircling areas.
Path Particulars and Data
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
Length: 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 greater temperatures permitting them to develop in a area the place they need to now not be. Round 250 stay, although fossils present traditionally they as soon as thrived on this space.
It’s a preferred spot for chicken watching, stress-free, or taking mild 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 Path 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 Middle, which offers quite a lot of info on the native space and wildlife.
Path Particulars and Data
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
Length: 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 half within the historical past of the area and was based as a corn, flour, and sawmill in 1811. It will have been a central level for grain manufacturing and a spot for group development and improvement. The ruins of the previous 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 accessible and clear rest room services on the customer’s middle. The paths are well-maintained and dog-friendly making it an excellent choice for hikes in Durham with a four-legged pal.
Path Particulars and Data
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
Length: 1.5-2.5 hours
Kind of Path: Round
Elevation Acquire: 112 meters
7. Weymouth Woods
If you happen to’re on the lookout for 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 Lengthy Leaf Pines for which central North Carolina is known. Weymouth Woods encompasses a community of predominantly flat trails that permit guests to discover the pine forests.
The Lighter Stump, Pine Barren, and Holly Highway Loop path is a well-liked hike at 3.8 miles that mixes three trails to make for a very pleasant trek. It takes you thru secluded pine forests and near the world’s swamp lands, and also you’ll come throughout numerous watering holes alongside the way in which.
The thick cover of tall pines offers a number of shade, making this top-of-the-line summer time hikes in Durham. The pines additionally shield you from any sudden rain showers which will instantly seem too – nature positively seems out for you right here!
Path Particulars and Data
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
Length: 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 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 often troublesome terrain. A part of the route could also be unpassable at sure occasions of the 12 months on account of excessive water ranges and needs to be fastidiously thought of throughout or after heavy rainfall.
That being stated, it’s a wonderful path that leads you thru Duke Forest, an space owned and managed by Duke College. The 7,000-acre web site consists of numerous 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 good points, whereas Ms. Brown’s Loop is significantly flatter. The routes may be divided to make two shorter walks, however even mixed, I’d think about them solely a average hike. I had no points with bugs however remember to pack bug spray simply in case as I’ve heard Duke Forest may be dangerous for critters generally.
Path Particulars and Data
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
Length: 2-3 hours
Kind of Path: Round
Elevation Acquire: 84 meters
9. Duke East Campus
One of many Durham treks I’m most accustomed to 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 total circumference of the East Campus and it’s one in all my favourite issues to do in Durham.
It’s a preferred strolling and jogging route and the terrain is just about fully flat. It’s a well-maintained, stone path all the way in which round making it straightforward for all types of trekkers. The historic college campus is full of large bushes, open inexperienced areas, immaculate lawns, attractive structure, and pleasant faces.
Ranging from Trinity Park, I’d all the time 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 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 Data
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
Length: 40 mins-1 hour
Kind of Path: Round
Elevation Acquire: Predominantly flat
10. American Tobacco Path
Among the finest Durham day hikes may 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 using delivery 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 must do the entire thing. However you may definitely rack up the miles for those who needed to. I’d recommend 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 current historical past.
Path Particulars and Data
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
Length: 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 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 way in which to really take within the views.
Parking up at Sandling Seashore Recreation Space, you can begin by exploring the woodland areas that encompass the attractive 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 primary entrance street to each seashores however visitors is managed and sluggish. Aside from crossing the primary junction between the 2 recreation areas, (a small two-lane nation street), you shouldn’t have any considerations with automobiles.
Parking is free at sure occasions of the 12 months through the week. It’s $5-$7 per automotive at weekends and weekdays throughout peak season.
Path Particulars and Data
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
Length: 1.5-2.5 hours
Kind of Path: Out and Again
Elevation Acquire: Predominantly flat
12. Decrease Cascade Falls
If you happen to’re on the lookout for waterfall hikes close to Durham, then take a look at Decrease Cascade Falls. A comparatively straightforward and brief 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 generally flat and pretty simple however does embrace fairly a couple of stairs. The water across the Falls additionally makes for an excellent swimming spot, particularly through the summer time months. It’s a brief however serene hike that may make you glad you could have a digicam in your cellphone!
Parking can generally be difficult, so I like to recommend you head out early if potential. Weekdays are all the time more likely to be quieter and are my advisable occasions to go to the Falls.
Path Particulars and Data
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
Length: 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 Worry River it’s a very nice metropolis and is value touring out to for a few of the finest day hikes round Durham.
Beginning in downtown Wilmington and operating alongside the Cape Worry River is a scenic promenade that provides beautiful views of the river, boats, and the historic district of the 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 indirectly on the riverwalk, the World Battle II battleship USS North Carolina is situated close by and may be simply accessed from the waterfront. It’s a preferred 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 without doubt one of the finest hikes round Durham.
Path Particulars and Data
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
Length: 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 brief hop to the south of Durham. The character reserve has a few nice trails that absorb lovely woodlands, streams, and native North Carolina vegetation.
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 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 – hold 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’s essential to.
Path Particulars and Data
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
Length: 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 tougher. Eno State Park is definitely top-of-the-line 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 wonderful scenic forest and river stroll.
With average elevation good points and a route that’s just about half forest and half riverside, this 1.5-mile round route is a pleasant choice for getting some recent air and train. It might simply be mixed with any variety of Eno River walks to cowl a higher distance.
At sure occasions of the 12 months, you’re even in a position to stroll throughout the Eno River because the water stage is so low. It’s an excellent place to dip your toes within the mighty river however be cautious and comply with any warning indicators.
Path Particulars and Data
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
Length: 45 mins-1.5 hours
Kind of Path: Round
Elevation Acquire: 43 meters
The place to Keep in Durham for Mountain climbing
These are a couple of of the finest 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 energetic space that’s house to numerous iconic Durham institutions akin to The Blue Word Grill and Kings Sandwich Store. In every single place is definitely walkable and it’s a protected and pleasant place that additionally has an arcade, espresso outlets, 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 the 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 residence. It’s ideally situated near every part Downtown and even features a swimming pool. Click on right here to search 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 visitors have a little bit of every part 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 group vibe. There are additionally numerous church buildings, faculties, and parks.
There are various nice cottages, residences, and houses to lease in Trinity Park however for those who’re on the lookout for a resort, take a look at this nice choice and residence complicated by Marriott. Click on right here to search out out extra.
Southpoint
Southpoint is located round 6 miles outdoors 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 complicated and hub for eating places and occasions, nevertheless it’s additionally positioned for a few of the finest 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 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.
Mountain climbing in Durham: FAQs
Listed here are some solutions to generally requested questions on one of the best hikes in Durham:
The Cox Mountain Loop Path is arguably one of the crucial standard hikes in Durham. Situated on the lovely 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 good points. 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.
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 may be reached by a reasonably simple 20-minute stroll that features numerous steps.
All the time put on sturdy mountaineering footwear as nearly all of the favored trails, though well-maintained, are nonetheless typically rugged, muddy, and have uneven terrain. Concentrate on the climate and respect that issues can change rapidly. Waterproofs and heat clothes are a necessity if climbing any severe elevation or mountaineering an extended distance.
Durham mountaineering gives so many lovely trails. But it surely’s powerful to beat the fantastic thing about Eno River State Park which ranked in my listing of prime issues to do in Durham general. The majestic river and beautiful landscapes round it supply many trails and hikes that cater to all ranges of health and talent, 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 out to be 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 to your hike.
One of many largest hikes in Durham is the American Tobacco Path. 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 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 delivery of tobacco merchandise.
Durham has a wealthy historical past with tobacco and lots of the warehouses and factories that when performed an enormous position in tobacco manufacturing nonetheless stay at this time. They’ve principally been repurposed as bars, eating places, places of work, 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 through the day when it’s most secure and there’s good mild to benefit from the surroundings.
In Closing
Durham mountaineering is a few of the finest I’ve but to expertise. It has a mixture of trails to swimsuit each skill 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 positive you’ll discover loads of nice trails to maintain you busy too.
