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We've got the scoop on the best affordable places that still offer that amazing Pacific Northwest vibe. Whether you're dreaming of cozy mountain towns or vibrant city life, Washington's got a little something for everyone. This state's got a little bit of everything, from bustling cities to quiet, quaint towns. Whether you're after top-notch schools, vibrant cultural scenes, or just some stunning nature, Massachusetts delivers. This little gem of a state might be small, but it's packed with some of the best places to live on the East Coast. From cozy beach towns to bustling city life, Delaware's got a spot for everyone.
Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Virginia for Every Lifestyle
It shouldn't come as a surprise that there are a wide array of hiking trails around the major city of Charlotte. Whether you have young kids or you're an avid solo hiker, there are trails suitable for any level of experience. Sure, western North Carolina steals the show when it comes to mountains, but that doesn’t mean the area of east Charlotte is without its fun.
Hike Twelve Mile Creek Greenway, including a suspension bridge to South Carolina (26 miles south of Charlotte)
From the sunny beaches to the scenic mountains and bustling cities, there's a spot for every family's taste and budget. This state's got a mix of everything - from bustling city vibes in Baltimore to the laid-back, scenic beauty of its coastal towns. From bustling cities to quiet seaside towns, there's a spot for everyone. Whether you're dreaming of fresh seafood by the ocean or a fast-paced city vibe, we've got you covered. Thinking about moving to North Carolina but worried about the cost? North Carolina's got some hidden gems where you can enjoy the good life without breaking the bank.
Photo guide to hiking 12 North Carolina State Parks (updated with additional parks)
Or explore the list below for more of the best hikes, waterfalls, and campgrounds throughout the state. The Linville Gorge Trail, a 3-quarter mile strenuous hike is the other option here where you can explore the scenes from the base of Linville Falls. That’s much more challenging but allows you to experience the roar of the water from a lower vantage point. This trail has a lake and is ideal for runners, hikers, mountain bikers, and those just looking to escape into nature for a bit. One of the best day hikes near Charlotte is Mallard Creek Greenway, a 9.2-mile, heavily trafficked trail located near Charlotte. We highlighted the Hollow Rock Trail, but we suggest exploring all the trails here.
With its proximity to Mountain Island Lake, Latta Nature Preserve offers serene lake views along gravel paths that roll with gentle inclines and descents. Locals really enjoy this trail, but warn that it can get muddy after periods of rain. Check this website before you go for the latest trail status. Here are some suggestions for hikes within day-trip distance of Charlotte, including favorites from listeners who responded when we asked on social media. It’s worth pointing out that this is nowhere near an exhaustive list of hiking trails. It is, however, a starting point for places that a Charlotte resident could drive to in less than three hours, spend a few hours in the woods, and make it home by nightfall.
North Carolina
Just three miles in length, the RibbonWalk is the perfect trail when you are looking for a quick escape to enjoy nature and tranquility. Starting from Huntington Farms Park, the Little Sugar Creek Greenway trail is one of the best hiking trails in Charlotte for those looking for an easy to moderate day hike. The 5-mile Lake Shore Trail is amongst the most popular hiking trails at the park and is of moderate difficulty for those seeking a scenic hike around the lake’s picturesque shoreline. Lake Norman State Park, located in Iredell County, in Troutman, NC, lies 40 miles north of Charlotte and takes about 45-min to reach from Uptown Charlotte. For a scenic, moderate stroll around the lake’s beautiful shoreline, follow the white blazes, or red blazes for a shortcut, on the five-mile Lake Shore Trail hike.
Little Sugar Creek Greenway: 7th St to Morehead St
National Forests in North Carolina - Uwharrie National Forest - USDA Forest Service
National Forests in North Carolina - Uwharrie National Forest.
Posted: Thu, 21 Dec 2023 07:01:14 GMT [source]
Here’s a look at some great hikes within a two-hour drive of Uptown Charlotte, in order of closest to farthest. As you’re planning your hike, know that weekdays are best for less-crowded park experiences. Check out our guide for Accessible Pathways to Adventure in Charlotte for even more options. Going on a hike is really just a walk through the woods of varied length, intensities, and altitude changes. Exclamation Point is a short, moderate hike (less than 1 mile) to a viewpoint where you can see fantastic views of Chimney Rock and the nearby valley. For hikers who want a more strenuous challenge, head to Party Rock (2.3 miles) for absolutely spectacular views of the valley and nearby lakes.
Lake Norman State Park – Alder Trail
From .75 to 1.3 miles in length, the hiking trails at the North Carolina Arboretum are a great intro to hiking. Not only are they well-maintained and accessible, but you can take in some of the man-made beauty of the gardens post-hike. Each of the 3 trails winds through areas dense with wildflowers, ferns, and various tree species. You don’t have to have a killer hike to get killer views.
20+ of the Best Things to do in Elkin, North Carolina – Travel Bugged - Travel Bugged
20+ of the Best Things to do in Elkin, North Carolina – Travel Bugged.
Posted: Sat, 06 Nov 2021 07:00:00 GMT [source]
High Falls
It is a relatively moderate trail that winds around the 28-acre Lake Haigler. Your kids can also join in on the fun and get the opportunity to see wildlife. The trail can be quite strenuous thanks to the difficult and steep path. While the park offers several hiking trails, the most popular of them all is the Indian Creek Trail which leads to Window Falls. Located in Cleveland County, the Broad River Greenway trail cuts through 1,500 acres of protected land around the Broad River.
At only 1.3 miles long, the trail is situated in McDowell Nature Preserve, and dogs are permitted as long as they are on a leash. The Kingfisher Trail is one of the best out-and-back trails near Charlotte NC for all levels of hikers, even though the trail is classified as ‘moderate’ difficulty. This moderately trafficked trail near Charlotte is a perfect option for those who want to escape the city for a wilderness retreat. There are handicapped-accessible parking spaces at a parking lot located off Tyvola Road.
Shining Rock is also on this trail beyond Black Balsam and has a wilderness area as well as an overlook and rock outcropping. Topped with dazzling quartz formations that give the rock it’s name, this is a unique hiking destination and a great option for a day hike. South Mountains State Park offers 40 miles of trails and an 80 foot waterfall that are well worth the drive.
There is a $6 fee for parking but once you're inside the park, you have access to a variety of trails and you can easily spend an entire afternoon getting lost in nature. If you have younger kids, they could certainly handle this trail. There isn't much in the way of elevation gain and dogs must be kept on leashes. The Rocktop is well-managed and easy to navigate, with its clearly marked “red square” trail blaze. However, the terrain on this aptly-named trail can be formidable in places and may be better suited for more experienced hikers.
The trail is fully paved, smooth, and relatively flat, making it easy to traverse. Most visitors should cover its entirety in a short 13-minute hike. Moreover, the route is popular among the locals for walking, running, and biking and is open year-round for exploration.
It's an out-and-back trail, so you can cut it short by turning around partway through. This trail is located behind South Park, where there are bathrooms and picnic amenities for hikers to use before or after their trek. Before embarking on this quick hike, make sure you fill up your water bottles.
Get to these views in no time with its convenient location off Highway 64 and short walk from the parking area until you’re under them. You can extend your hike beyond the viewing platform and travel along the Foothills Trail to the Lower Falls for more spectacular views. Along the trail, you’ll walk alongside the Whitewater River which supplies all the water to both the roaring Upper and Lower Whitewater Falls. Get to the parking area early if you’re visiting during a busy time! It can fill up quickly and spots are hard to come by later in the day. Erwin’s View Trail is the upper trail and an easy 1.6 mile moderate hike that takes you to 3 different gorgeous viewpoints.
The U.S. National Whitewater Center has over 45 miles of trails on the property, giving hikers plenty of options to choose from. For the low price of a $6 entry fee, you can easily make a day of hiking and enjoying a picnic lunch in the shade. Explore the best hiking trails in Charlotte, NC, from rustic forest paths to scenic urban routes, perfect for all levels of hikers and outdoor lovers.
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