The best walks and hikes in Durham County

Yes, many trails in Durham County are dog-friendly, provided your dog is kept on a leash. Popular areas like Eno River State Park and Duke Forest welcome leashed dogs. The Eagle Trail — West Point on the Eno is a great option, offering a relatively flat path along the river that's perfect for a walk with your canine companion.

Durham County has numerous trails suitable for families and casual walkers. For a straightforward and scenic walk, consider the Al Buehler loop — Chapel Hill. It's a well-maintained gravel path that circles a golf course, offering plenty of shade and gentle terrain for hikers of all ages.

Yes, the American Tobacco Trail is a major multi-use path that is paved through Durham. It's ideal for a long, flat walk or bike ride. The section from Downtown Durham to Elmira Park provides an excellent urban greenway experience, connecting different parts of the city.

Absolutely. For a quick but rewarding loop, the Penny's Bend Nature Preserve loop — Durham is an excellent choice. This easy trail is under 2 miles (3 km) and takes you through a unique botanical area on a peninsula of the Eno River.

Hikers in the region have several favorite spots. Eno River State Park is a cornerstone of local hiking, highly regarded for its rugged trails along the scenic river. Duke Forest is another popular choice, offering an extensive network of gravel roads and dirt paths through managed woodlands. For a unique experience, many visit the Eno Quarry Trailhead, which leads to a beautiful, historic quarry that is now a popular swimming hole.

Hiking in Eno River State Park is characterized by trails that follow the river, often involving moderate climbs up and down the bluffs. The paths are typically dirt and can be rocky and rooted in places. A great example is the Bobbitt Hole Trail to Cole Mill Trail loop, which showcases the classic Eno terrain with river views and quiet woodland sections.

While the region isn't known for large waterfalls, you can find beautiful rapids and small cascades along the Eno River. Bobbitt Hole, accessible via trails in Eno River State Park, is a popular spot where the river tumbles over rocks, creating a scenic, waterfall-like effect.

The Mountains-to-Sea Trail (MST) passes through Durham County, primarily following the shoreline of Falls Lake and the course of the Eno River. This section offers some of the area's most scenic and continuous hiking. It connects several parks and natural areas, allowing for long-distance treks through mature forests with frequent water views.

Duke Forest is a favorite among local trail runners due to its extensive network of well-maintained gravel roads and softer dirt trails. The varied terrain offers options for both flat, fast runs and more challenging hilly routes. The American Tobacco Trail is another excellent choice for runners looking for a flat, paved surface over long distances.

There are over 50 hiking routes in Durham County mapped on komoot, ranging from short, easy walks to more challenging day hikes. The area offers a great variety, with 33 easy trails and 15 rated as moderate, ensuring options for every fitness level.

The trails in Durham County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths, the serene beauty of the Eno River, and the peaceful atmosphere of the region's extensive woodlands.

The Pump Station Trail — Eno River State Park is a short, easy hike that follows the river and leads to the remains of Durham's first water pumping station. It's a fantastic choice for a quick walk that combines nature with a bit of local history.