The Best Hiking Near Winston-Salem
Winston-Salem is not only walkable, vibrant, and bursting with delicious cuisine, but it also offers much in the way of hiking and outdoor adventure. There are plenty of nearby parks and greenways for those who love to get out on the hiking trails just as much as they enjoy exploring downtown art galleries. Hit these trails for some of the best hiking near Winston-Salem.
1. Pilot Mountain State Park
Just 20 miles northwest of the city, Pilot Mountain State Park offers some of the most beautiful hiking near Winston-Salem. The iconic geologic knob is impossible to miss, and it now serves as a symbol of outdoor recreation and fun for locals and visitors alike. There are trails within this park for every level of hiker, and the views are well worth even the most strenuous of routes. Easy hikes within the park include the .4-mile Fiddlehead Trail and the Little Pinnacle Overlook, which flaunts incredible views that span up to 3,000 square miles.
More strenuous hikes include the one-mile Ledge Spring Trail, the 3.5-mile Grindstone Trail, and the 12.6-mile Mountains-to-Sea State Trail. Regardless of the trail you choose, Pilot Mountain State Park promises sweeping views, abundant wildlife, and plenty of fresh air for every hiker.
Where to Stay: Jomeokee Campground
Jomeokee Campground awaits just five minutes outside of Pilot Mountain State Park. Take in a breathtaking view of Pilot Mountain from throughout this sprawling campground. Whether you prefer a tent and a primitive site or your RV at a full hookup site, this campground has an option for you. This peaceful campground provides all the shade trees and wide open space you need to recuperate from your hiking adventures. Plus, check for upcoming musical events right on the grounds and enjoy some tunes after the trail.
2. Salem Lake Trail
Get a breath of fresh air without the long trek to a faraway park. Conveniently located right in the heart of Winston-Salem, the Salem Lake Trail is seven miles long and encircles the beautiful Salem Lake. Beginners and families can enjoy this low-stakes, low elevation-gain trail as a stress-free way to get outside and take in the stunning scenery.
3. Morrow Mountain State Park
This scenic mountain park is full of fun hiking near Winston-Salem for every experience level. Located about 60 miles south of Winston-Salem, this park draws geology buffs with its rhyodacite and argillite. Hiking routes range from gradual .6-mile loops like the Laurel Trail to the strenuous Sugarloaf Mountain trail, a 2.8-mile loop. Gain some elevation to bask in the panoramic views of the surrounding hills and forests.
Where to Stay: Cobble Hill Campground
Situated less than an hour away from Morrow Mountain State Park, Cobble Hill Campground offers all the amenities you need for a fun family vacation. From the swimming pool to the fishing pond, there are plenty of activities for travelers of all ages to enjoy. Cabins, tent sites, and RV sites welcome weary hikers for a fun-filled and relaxing stay.
4. Eagle Point Nature Preserve
Eagle Point Trail at Eagle Point Nature Preserve is another low-key, family-friendly option for building a hiking habit. This 3.2-mile route only involves 62 feet of elevation gain, making it ideal for younger children or beginner hikers. Birders especially love this trail thanks to the presence of bald eagles, great blue herons, egrets, owls, and more. Pack a picnic and take your time exploring this 100-acre oasis.
Where to Stay: Cross Winds Family Campground
RV campers, rejoice! This campground is only 23 minutes away from the stunning Eagle Point Nature Preserve and it features a whopping 96 full hookup RV sites. Each one is equipped with a fire ring, a picnic table, cable, and Wi-Fi for a truly seamless experience. The playground and swimming pool offer endless fun for kids of all ages, and the bathrooms and laundry facilities keep every camper comfortable. A booking at Cross Winds Family Campground promises brand new memories and plenty of fresh air.
5. Hanging Rock State Park
Want to go chasing waterfalls? Head to Hanging Rock State Park for an ideal mix of panoramic views, waterfalls, a mountain cave, and more. With over 48 miles of hiking trails, this park offers some of the most gorgeous hiking near Winston-Salem.
This park’s namesake is a quartzite rock formation that juts out over the landscape, which hikers can trek to on a 1.3-mile one-way trail. The moderate hike offers a huge payoff in the form of sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. For a longer climb, strong hikers can set out on the Hike to Five Peaks, a 10-mile loop that summits the park’s five peaks. This strenuous hike involves stairs and creek crossings. Plenty of hikes within the park fall somewhere in between, like the 2.4-mile Tory’s Den Trail.
Where to Stay: Oak Hollow Campground
Stay an hour away from Hanging Rock State Park at the serene Oak Hollow Campground. This waterside campground offers various lakefront sites along Oak Hollow Lake for both tents and RVs. Enjoy a day on the water between hiking adventures by using the boat launch or heading out on a canoe or kayak. The well-kept playground and swimming pool help kids create new campground memories, and the breathtaking views over the water will have the whole family awestruck.
Hiking near Winston-Salem is an endless delight with so many stunning trails to enjoy in the area. Make a multi-day trip of your hiking adventure by staying at serene campgrounds with the whole family. Book your Campspot today and head to your outdoor adventure!
Libby Thompson is a freelance writer living in Denver, Colorado. Having grown up in the shadow of the Rocky Mountains, hiking and camping have been cornerstones of her life since childhood. Rain, snow, or shine, you can usually find her outdoors on a paddle board, a hiking trail, or a pair of skis. Libby can be reached via email at libby@libbywrites.com.
Image credits: Adobe Stock – jonbilous