I’ve put collectively an inventory of 15 of the perfect hikes in Durham, North Carolina. I just lately spent quite a lot 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 encircling areas have to supply.
Nestled within the coronary heart of North Carolina’s Piedmont area, Durham provides a mix of city sophistication and pure magnificence, making it an excellent gateway for mountaineering adventures. Time spent in and round Durham mountaineering is a good 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 ability ranges. Whether or not you’re in search of a leisurely stroll or a more difficult climb, Durham’s mountaineering trails received’t disappoint.
Greatest Hikes in Durham, NC
I really like the outside and have hiked in international locations all around the globe. From the beautiful vineyards of Florence to the plush forests of Catalunya and the gorgeous mountains of southern California, I adore 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 various elements. I’ve thought-about features comparable to pure magnificence, the standard of the paths, issues to see and do on the best way, 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 swimsuit you.
1. Cox Mountain Path at Eno State Park
Some of the common places to visit in Durham is Eno State Park, which is able to seem a number of occasions on this listing. It provides a number of scenic trails with various ranges of problem and size and a number of the most beautiful surroundings. The Cox Mountain Trail is an efficient 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 via 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 is usually 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 on no account out of attain for reasonable hikers.
The Cox Mountain Path is one in every of 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 somewhat with each step as you cross the river. However after all, it’s protected and safe and is an incredible addition to an already nice hike.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: 6095 State Rd 1569, Durham, NC 27705, United States. Click here for directions to the trailhead.
Size: 4 miles / 6.6 km
Length: 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 provides 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 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 up. Simply be cautious of occasional huge tree roots that may have an effect on the paths. My recommendation is to go off counterclockwise as this can 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 notably stunning hike through the fall when the leaves start to alter however is equally satisfying any time of yr.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: 625 Virginia Cates Rd, Hillsborough, NC 27278, United States. Click here for directions to the trailhead.
Size: 2.2 miles / 3.54 km
Length: 1.5-2 hours
Sort of Path: Round
Elevation Achieve: 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 believe it deserves a spot on this listing.
The route begins and finishes in Trinity Park however incorporates a minimize instantly via 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 have to consider how a lot power you might have in your legs, as you’ll be able to simply rack up a very good 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 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
Length: 3.5-4.5 hours
Sort of Path: Out and Again
Elevation Achieve: Predominantly flat
4. Hanging Rock Path
Heading somewhat additional out of city, the most effective 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 definitely 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) however it has some steep elevation positive factors 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 through the colder seasons. As a consequence of its geographical location, you’ll be able to hike year-round. It’s the most effective winter hikes in Durham and the encircling areas.
Path Particulars and Data
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
Length: 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 singular and ecologically vital space as a result of uncommon Hemlock trees that develop there. The steep bluffs are north-facing, which protects the timber from greater temperatures permitting them to develop in a area the place they need to 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, stress-free, or taking mild walks, and Hemlock Bluffs provides a number of brief 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 Trail at 1.2 miles, which cuts via woods, alongside streams, and previous the massive Hemlock timber. There are a variety of different shorter trails too, all of which start on the Stevens Nature Center, which supplies an excessive amount of data on the native space and wildlife.
Path Particulars and Data
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
Length: 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 in every of 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. Through 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 improvement. The ruins of the outdated water-powered mill, in addition to a number 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 obtainable and clear bathroom 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 good friend.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Eno State Park, Durham, NC 27705, United States. Click here for directions to the trailhead.
Size: 3.9 miles / 6.3 km
Length: 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 simple 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 known. 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 satisfying trek. It takes you thru secluded pine forests and near the realm’s swamp lands, and also you’ll come throughout numerous watering holes alongside the best way.
The thick cover of tall pines supplies a number of shade, making this the most effective summer season hikes in Durham. The pines additionally shield you from any sudden rain showers that will out of the blue seem too – nature positively seems to be out for you right here!
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Weymouth Woods Sandhills Nature Protect, Apex, NC 27502, USA. Click here for directions to the trailhead.
Size: 3.8 miles / 6.1 km
Length: 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 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 often troublesome terrain. A part of the route could also be unpassable at sure occasions of the yr because of excessive water ranges and needs to be fastidiously thought-about throughout or after heavy rainfall.
That being mentioned, it’s a good looking path that leads you thru Duke Forest, an space owned and managed by Duke University. The 7,000-acre website contains numerous forest sorts, wetlands, wildlife, streams, and pure areas that make for a really scenic hike.
The Piney Mountain a part of the path entails extra elevation positive factors, whereas Ms. Brown’s Loop is significantly flatter. The routes could be divided to make two shorter walks, however even mixed, I’d contemplate them solely a reasonable hike. I had no points with bugs however remember to pack bug spray simply in case as I’ve heard Duke Forest could be unhealthy for critters typically.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Whitfield Rd, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, United States. Click here for directions to the trailhead.
Size: 3.5 miles / 5.6 km
Length: 2-3 hours
Sort of Path: Round
Elevation Achieve: 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 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 total circumference of the East Campus and it’s one in every of my favourite things to do in Durham.
It’s a well-liked strolling and jogging route and the terrain is just about fully flat. It’s a well-maintained, stone path all the best way round making it simple for every kind of trekkers. The historic college campus is full of big timber, 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 every of my favorite cafes in Durham, just like the Mad Hatter Cafe. You may as well make the path so long as you want by slicing 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 here for directions to the trailhead.
Size: 1.7 miles / 2.7 km
Length: 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 mix 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 Company 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 need to do the entire thing. However you may actually rack up the miles in case you needed to. I’d recommend strolling from the beginning in central Durham to the Hillside entry 2.9 miles away. It provides some stunning surroundings alongside nice terrain and is a good way to discover a few of Durham’s latest historical past.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: American Tobacco Path, Durham, NC 27701, United States. Click here for directions to the trailhead.
Size: 5.8 miles / 9.33 km
Length: 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 includes two stunning 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 really 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 primary entrance highway to each seashores however site visitors is managed and gradual. Apart from crossing the primary junction between the 2 recreation areas, (a small two-lane nation highway), you shouldn’t have any considerations with autos.
Parking is free at sure occasions of the yr 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 here for directions to the trailhead.
Size: 4 miles / 6.44 km
Length: 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 simple 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 biggest waterfall in North Carolina by any stretch, however its magnificence and tranquil environment are effectively definitely worth the journey.
The 20-minute stroll from the parking space is generally flat and pretty easy however does embody fairly a number of stairs. The water across the Falls additionally makes for an excellent swimming spot, particularly through the summer season months. It’s a brief however serene hike that can make you glad you might have a digital camera in your cellphone!
Parking can typically be tough, so I like to recommend you head out early if attainable. Weekdays are at all times more likely to be quieter and are my really useful occasions to go to the Falls.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: Cascades Rd, Walnut Cove, NC 27052, United States. Click here for directions to the trailhead.
Size: 0.7 miles / 1.1 km
Length: 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 fantastic metropolis of Wilmington, NC. It’s identified for its historic downtown space, cultural sights, 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 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 in a roundabout way on the riverwalk, the World Conflict 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 Data
Location: Wilmington Downtown Riverwalk, Wilmington, NC 28401, United States. Click here for directions to the trailhead.
Size: 3.5 miles / 5.6 km
Length: 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 absorb stunning woodlands, streams, and native North Carolina flowers.
The north route is a reasonable stroll over well-maintained paths, nevertheless, 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 provides some super wildlife-spotting alternatives. Although I didn’t see any, associates have reported seeing deer on the stroll beforehand – maintain 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 it’s essential.
Path Particulars and Data
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
Length: 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 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 Trail is one other nice instance of a good looking scenic forest and river stroll.
With reasonable elevation positive factors 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 contemporary air and train. It may 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 excellent place to dip your toes within the mighty river however be cautious and observe any warning indicators.
Path Particulars and Data
Location: 6101 Cole Mill Rd, Durham, NC 27705, United States. Click here for directions to the trailhead.
Size: 1.5 miles / 2.4 km
Length: 45 mins-1.5 hours
Sort of Path: Round
Elevation Achieve: 43 meters
The place to Keep in Durham for Climbing
These are a number of of the best neighborhoods and areas in and around Durham, which make for nice bases when mountaineering across the metropolis:
Downtown Durham
Downtown Durham is a superb place to remain in case you like having loads of bars and excellent restaurants in your doorstep. It’s a very energetic space that’s dwelling to various iconic Durham institutions comparable to The Blue Note Grill and Kings Sandwich Shop. All over the place is well 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 dwelling 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.
Try 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 company 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 various church buildings, faculties, and parks.
There are lots of nice cottages, flats, and houses to lease in Trinity Park however in case you’re in search of a lodge, take a look at this nice choice and condominium complicated by Marriott. Click here to find out more.
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, 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 various causes to think about staying somewhat additional out of city.
There are some nice lodge choices in Southpoint, one in every of which is the Hilton Garden Inn which has a health middle, indoor pool, and free parking. Click here to learn more.
Climbing in Durham: FAQs
Listed below are some solutions to generally requested questions on the perfect hikes in Durham:
The Cox Mountain Loop Trail is arguably one of the crucial common hikes in Durham. Situated on the stunning Eno River State Park, it’s each a river and forest hike that’s understandably common 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 positive factors. Right here, you’ll discover many brief 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.
Lower Cascade Falls is a superb spot to see a waterfall throughout a hike. The Falls are round 20 toes 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 easy 20-minute stroll that features various steps.
At all times put on sturdy mountaineering footwear as the vast majority 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 shortly. Waterproofs and heat clothes are a necessity if climbing any critical elevation or mountaineering a protracted distance.
Durham mountaineering provides so many stunning trails. Nevertheless it’s robust 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 skill, 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 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. At all times plan forward, know your route, persist with designated trails, and pack accordingly in your hike.
One of many greatest hikes in Durham is the American Tobacco Trail. 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 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 delivery of tobacco merchandise.
Durham has a rich history with tobacco and most of the warehouses and factories that when performed an enormous position in tobacco manufacturing nonetheless stay right this moment. They’ve largely 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 via 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 number of the greatest I’ve but to expertise. It has a mixture of trails to swimsuit 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 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 serious 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.
