3 Best Hiking Trails in Winston Salem, NC

“Salem Lake Trail is a hub for fitness activities, where equestrians, cyclists, walkers, and bikers share the scenic pathways, making it a vibrant destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The mile markers on the Salem Lake Trail run counterclockwise from the parking lot of Stage, located near the playground and picnic area. The trail's elevation gain is 236 feet, and the time taken to complete the total trail is approximately approximately 2 hours and 16 mins. Lake Trail stretches almost 7 miles, rounding Salem Lake in Winston-Salem city park. The park has a 365-acre lake, and the trail provides panoramic views over the water. Water fountains at the Point car park and Linville Road run between April and October. Linville's parking area has bathrooms and a fun playground near the marina center. Salem Lake offers fishing from the pier or a boat. There are also some canoes and paddle boarders. Salem Lake Trail has plenty of nature to explore.”

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“Pilot Mountain State Park is a 2,400-foot pilot mountain with a separate riverfront area. The park is iconic for hiking and rock climbing. Pilot Mountain State Park covers 3,872 acres of forest area. The park has 14 miles of hiking, and the trail is generally considered easy to moderately challenging. The park provides camping, canoeing, fishing, rock climbing, picnicking, hiking, and environmental education as year-round activities. This park also features three picnic areas, tables, and grills for the visitors. The trails are open for hiking and horseback riding. The trails are within walking distance of the camping area. There are also some learning exhibits in the visitor center. Pilot Mountain State Park has a beautiful gift shop. Visitors can explore the stunning views of the mountain.”

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“Muddy Creek Greenway operates from Country Club Road to three miles along Muddy Creek. This 6.2-mile out-and-back trail is near Pfafftown, North Carolina. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 1 hour 48 min to complete. The parkway links five communities and runs through farm fields, soccer fields, and a horse pasture. The park is located near Winston Salem, a moderately trafficked out-and-back trail of 5.7 miles. The variety of habitats makes the trail a paradise for birdwatchers. Cardinals, bluebirds, chickadees, and woodpeckers are also found in the trees along the trail. Visitors can see the blackbirds, meadowlarks, and wild turkeys. They have a shelter for picnics, a dog park, a playground, and more. Jamison Park off Meadowlark Drive has parking available.”

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