The best walks and hikes around Winston-Salem
5.0
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164
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Hiking around Winston-Salem offers diverse outdoor experiences, blending urban green spaces with state parks. The region features iconic natural landmarks such as Pilot Mountain's granite dome and Hanging Rock's waterfalls, alongside serene lake loops and historic park trails. These landscapes provide a variety of terrain, including forested paths, paved greenways, and rocky outcrops, with significant elevation changes in some areas. The area provides options from accessible urban greenways to challenging mountain trails.
Best hiking trails around Winston-Salem
- The most popular hiking route is Salem Lake Trail loop — Winston-Salem, a 7.2 miles (11.5 km) trail that takes 2 hours 58 minutes to complete. This moderate route offers picturesque views of the lake.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Waughtown Connector Greenway — Winston-Salem, an easy 2.2 miles (3.6 km) path. This greenway provides an accessible urban walking experience.
- Local hikers also love the Long Creek Park Trail, a 4.5 miles (7.3 km) trail leading through parkland, often completed in about 2 hours 22 minutes.
- Hiking around Winston-Salem is defined by iconic mountain peaks, cascading waterfalls, and serene lake loops. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy greenway strolls to more challenging climbs in nearby state parks.
- The routes in Winston-Salem are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from 1 review. More than 122 hikers have used komoot to explore Winston-Salem's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 12, 2026
4
hikers
3.33km
00:51
20m
20m
Embark on an easy hike along the Black Walnut Bottoms Trail, a peaceful route that winds through protected natural areas. You will cross several footbridges as the path leads you toward Muddy Creek, offering glimpses of a diverse landscape. This gentle journey spans 2.1 miles (3.3 km) with a modest elevation gain of 49 feet (15 metres), making it accessible for nearly everyone. Plan for about 51 minutes to complete the loop at a comfortable pace. As you walk, you will pass colonial-era agricultural fields and follow the base of the distinctive hardwood-covered Black Walnut Bluffs.
Accessing the Black Walnut Bottoms Trail is straightforward, with convenient parking available at the Bethania Town Hall and Visitors Center. This location also serves as the primary starting point for your hike. The trail welcomes visitors year-round, providing a consistent opportunity for a peaceful outdoor experience. If you plan to bring your dog, please ensure they remain on a leash throughout your visit to protect the natural environment and other trail users.
This trail is nestled within the historic Bethania National Historic Landmark District, adding a unique cultural layer to your outdoor adventure. The Black Walnut Bluffs themselves are a notable feature, giving the trail its name and contributing to the area's natural beauty. The setting within a historic Moravian village provides a distinct atmosphere, making your walk more than just a simple hike. It's an opportunity to connect with both nature and local heritage.
3
hikers
1.86km
00:29
10m
10m
Enjoy an easy 1.2-mile paved hike along Silas Creek in Winston-Salem, connecting parks and residential areas, suitable for all ages.
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1
hikers
7.26km
02:22
80m
80m
Explore the Long Creek Park Trail, a moderate hiking route that winds through a unique landscape in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. This 4.5-mile (7.3 km) trail, once a golf course, now offers peaceful natural surroundings. You will follow old golf-cart paths through rolling hills, enjoying scenic water views and open spaces. Expect to gain around 254 feet (77 metres) in elevation, with most hikers completing the route in about 2 hours and 22 minutes.
When planning your visit, you will find parking typically available at the park entrance. The Long Creek Park Trail is a popular spot for dog walking, so feel free to bring your leashed companion along for the hike. While the route is generally well-maintained, be aware that some sections might have potholes or overgrown weeds, so watch your step.
What makes this trail special is its transformation from a golf course into a secluded natural area, even though it is near houses. The route's design along former golf-cart paths creates a distinct experience, offering glimpses of wildlife like birds and squirrels. In colder months, you might even see frozen ponds, adding to the scenic charm of this repurposed landscape.
1
hikers
4.50km
01:08
10m
10m
Hike the easy 2.8-mile Muddy Creek Greenway in Winston-Salem, offering paved paths, creek views, and abundant wildlife.
2.67km
00:43
60m
0m
The Winston-Salem Strollway offers an easy 1.7-mile hike connecting downtown to historic Old Salem, featuring paved paths and urban views.
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Tips from the Community
Although this foot bridge was build in 1998 it looks like something out of the past. It connects the Strollway to the south end of Old Salem. It is not the main entrance to Old Salem, but it is a nice entrance and is reminisce of something from that time period.
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This is a really nice wooden bridge for bikes, walking and running. It allows you to stay off the road and stay on trails. It is dedicated to a former City Counsel Member who was very influential in this area. There is a plaque explaining more at the beginning of the bridge. The entrance to the YWCA is right across the bridge.
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Although this foot bridge was built in 1998 it looks like something out of the past. It connects the Strollway to the south end of Old Salem. It is not the main entrance to Old Salem, but it is a nice entrance and is reminiscent of something from that time period.
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Although this foot bridge was build in 1998 it looks like something out of the past. It connects the Strollway to the south end of Old Salem. It is not the main entrance to Old Salem but it is a nice entrance and is reminisce of something from that time period.
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This is a really nice wooden bridge for bikes, walking and running. It allows you to stay off the road and stay on trails. It is dedicated to a former City Counsel Member who was very influential in this area. There is a plaque explaining more at the beginning of the bridge. The entrance to the YWCA is right across the bridge.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Winston-Salem?
There are over 15 hiking trails around Winston-Salem, ranging from easy urban greenways to more challenging routes in nearby state parks. You'll find options for various skill levels and preferences.
Are there any easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or casual walkers?
Yes, Winston-Salem offers several easy trails. The Waughtown Connector Greenway — Winston-Salem is an easy 2.2-mile path perfect for a relaxed stroll. Another accessible option is the Historic Bethabara Park loop — Winston-Salem, which offers a pleasant 2.5-mile walk through a historic area.
Where can I find trails with scenic views or natural landmarks near Winston-Salem?
For breathtaking views, consider a short drive to Pilot Mountain State Park, known for its iconic 600-foot granite dome, Big Pinnacle. Hanging Rock State Park also offers 'jaw-dropping vistas' and rock outcrops. Within the city, the Quarry at Grant Park provides panoramic views of an old quarry. You can also explore Reynolda Gardens for beautiful walking paths through woodlands and wetlands.
Are there any hiking trails with waterfalls near Winston-Salem?
Yes, Hanging Rock State Park, about 40-45 minutes from downtown, is famous for its 'cascading waterfalls,' including Lower Cascades Falls. Stone Mountain State Park, less than an hour away, also features a impressive 200-foot waterfall along its signature loop trail.
What are some good options for family-friendly hikes?
Many of the urban greenways and park loops are excellent for families. The Salem Lake Trail loop — Winston-Salem is a popular nearly 7-mile loop that's great for walking with kids, offering picturesque lake views. Tanglewood Park in nearby Clemmons also features rolling trails and other family amenities.
Are there any circular or loop hiking trails in the area?
Yes, several trails offer a loop experience. The Salem Lake Trail loop — Winston-Salem is a well-known nearly 7-mile circular route. The Horizons Park loop — Germanton, North Carolina is another popular 2.5-mile loop through parkland. In nearby state parks, the Jomeokee Trail at Pilot Mountain and the Stone Mountain Loop Trail are also circular options.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Winston-Salem?
The hiking routes in Winston-Salem are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Hikers often praise the diverse terrain, from serene lake loops to challenging climbs in state parks, and the accessibility of urban greenways. The variety of natural features, including iconic mountain peaks and waterfalls, is also frequently highlighted.
Can I find longer, more challenging hikes near Winston-Salem?
For more challenging hikes, consider the state parks. Pilot Mountain State Park offers the strenuous Ledge Spring Trail, which connects to the Grindstone Trail. Hanging Rock State Park has over 20 miles of trails, including the moderate 2.6-mile roundtrip Hanging Rock Trail and Moore's Wall Trail. Stone Mountain State Park's 4.5-mile Stone Mountain Loop Trail is considered moderately strenuous.
Are there any historic sites or landmarks I can explore while hiking?
Absolutely. The Historic Bethabara Park loop — Winston-Salem allows you to walk through a significant historic area. At Stone Mountain State Park, the Stone Mountain Loop Trail passes by the historic Hutchinson Homestead, a restored mid-19th-century mountain farm. You can also find highlights like the Old Salem Covered Wooden Bridge and Lowery Mill Creek Crossing and Old Railway Bridge (Salem Lake Trail) along various routes.
What are the options for urban hiking or greenways in Winston-Salem?
Winston-Salem has an excellent network of urban greenways. The Salem Creek Greenway from Salem Lake — Winston-Salem is a moderate 5.2-mile paved path linking downtown to Salem Lake. The Bethabara Greenway at Historic Bethabara Park also offers paved, gravel, and single-track sections. These provide accessible walking experiences within the city.
Is there parking available at the trailheads?
Most major parks and greenways in and around Winston-Salem, including Salem Lake, Historic Bethabara Park, and the state parks (Pilot Mountain, Hanging Rock, Stone Mountain), offer designated parking areas for hikers. Specific parking details can often be found on individual park websites or komoot tour pages.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Winston-Salem?
Winston-Salem offers enjoyable hiking year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while autumn showcases vibrant fall foliage, especially in the state parks. Summer is popular, but it can be warm and humid, so early mornings or late afternoons are best. Winter hiking is also possible, with cooler temperatures and often clearer views, particularly from mountain peaks.
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