The best walks and hikes in Forsyth County
4.8
(13)
424
hikers
35
hikes
Hiking in Forsyth County offers a variety of trails primarily located within parks and along greenways. The landscape features include established parkland, lakeside paths, and connector greenways, providing accessible outdoor experiences. These areas often incorporate gentle elevation changes and natural settings within an urban and suburban environment. The region's hiking trails cater to various skill levels, from easy strolls to moderate excursions.
Best hiking trails in Forsyth County
- The most popular hiking route is Salem Lake Trail loop — Winston-Salem…
Last updated: April 26, 2026
4
hikers
3.33km
00:51
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
1.86km
00:29
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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2
hikers
5.05km
01:20
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
5.05km
01:20
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
7.26km
02:22
80m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
1
hikers
4.50km
01:08
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
1.73km
00:27
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1.84km
00:28
0m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1.61km
00:28
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2.67km
00:43
60m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
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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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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Tanglewood Park is a great place to visit and get outdoors. The park is located next to the Yadkin River. There are trails all around the golf course for bikes, horses and hiking. There are also some mountain bike specific trails with berms, jumps and platforms. There are fishing ponds and a swimming pool area.
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Bethabara was the first European settlement in the North Carolina Piedmont district being founded way back in 1753 and is a National Historic Landmark. It is now a public designated park that encompasses 183 acres of preserved wildlife, historic buildings and grounds. There are walking and birding trails and protected wetlands for everybody to enjoy.
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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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The Historic Bethabara Park in Winston-Salem holds significance as the site of the first European settlement in the region. Established in 1753, the park allows visitors to step back in time and take a nice walk through the area.
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Bethabara was the first European settlement in the North Carolina Piedmont district being founded way back in 1753 and is a National Historic Landmark. It is now a public designated park that encompasses 183 acres of preserved wildlife, historic buildings and grounds. There are walking and birding trails and protected wetlands for everybody to enjoy.
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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.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Forsyth County?
Forsyth County offers a selection of 15 hiking trails, catering to various preferences. These routes are primarily located within parks and along greenways, providing accessible outdoor experiences.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners in Forsyth County?
Yes, Forsyth County has plenty of easy trails perfect for beginners. Out of the 15 available routes, 10 are classified as easy. A good option is the Waughtown Connector Greenway — Winston-Salem, which is a straightforward 2.2-mile path through urban green spaces.
What are some moderate hiking options in Forsyth County?
For those seeking a moderate challenge, Forsyth County offers 5 trails. The Salem Lake Trail loop — Winston-Salem is a popular moderate route, covering 7.2 miles around Salem Lake. Another option is the Horizons Park loop — Germanton, North Carolina, a 2.5-mile trail through parkland.
Are there any long-distance hiking opportunities in Forsyth County?
While most trails are shorter, the Salem Creek Greenway from Salem Lake — Winston-Salem offers a longer experience, stretching over 9.5 miles (15.3 km). This route provides an extended journey along the greenway.
Can I find loop trails in Forsyth County?
Yes, many trails in Forsyth County are designed as loops, offering convenient starting and ending points. Examples include the popular Salem Lake Trail loop — Winston-Salem and the Tanglewood Park loop — Clemmons, North Carolina.
What kind of natural features or attractions can I see along the trails?
Hiking in Forsyth County allows you to explore various natural and historical points of interest. You can discover highlights like the Lowery Mill Creek Crossing and Old Railway Bridge along the Salem Lake Trail, or visit Reynolda Gardens. Many trails also feature scenic lake views, such as those around Kernersville Lake Park.
Are the hiking trails in Forsyth County suitable for families?
Many trails in Forsyth County are family-friendly, particularly the easy-rated routes. These often feature gentle terrain and well-maintained paths, making them suitable for all ages. The greenways and park loops are generally good choices for a family outing.
What do other hikers enjoy the most about hiking in Forsyth County?
The komoot community highly rates the hiking experience in Forsyth County, with an average score of 4.75 stars. Hikers often praise the well-maintained greenways, the scenic lakeside paths, and the accessibility of trails within park settings.
Are there any trails that pass by historical landmarks?
Yes, you can explore historical sites while hiking. The Historic Bethabara Park loop — Winston-Salem is a great example, offering a walk through a significant historical area. Additionally, highlights like the Old Salem Covered Wooden Bridge can be found near some routes.
What types of landscapes can I expect to see while hiking in Forsyth County?
Forsyth County's hiking landscape primarily features established parkland, serene lakeside paths, and connecting greenways. You'll find natural settings integrated within urban and suburban environments, often with gentle elevation changes.
Are there any trails that offer views of lakes or rivers?
Absolutely. The Salem Lake Trail loop — Winston-Salem provides continuous views of Salem Lake. Another option is the Yadkin River Trail — Tanglewood Park, which offers scenic perspectives along the river.
Most popular routes in Forsyth County
Most popular attractions in Forsyth County
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