The best walks and hikes around Winston-Salem

The Black Walnut Bottoms Trail offers a delightful escape into nature, winding through diverse landscapes that feel far removed from urban bustle. You'll follow the gentle curves of Muddy Creek, traverse peaceful bottomland forests, and cross five charming footbridges, all while enjoying views of historic agricultural fields and the impressive Black Walnut Bluffs. Keep an eye out for the serene pine grove and the mowed path by the community garden, adding to the varied scenery of this natural surface route.

Planning your visit is simple, with ample parking available at the Bethania Visitor's Center, making access easy for everyone. This easy 2.1-mile (3.3 km) hike, with a minimal 49 feet (15 metres) of elevation gain, takes approximately 51 minutes to complete, making it ideal for a quick outing. The trail is rarely crowded, ensuring a tranquil experience, and is suitable for all seasons, though spring and autumn provide particularly pleasant conditions.

This trail is not just a walk in the woods; it's a journey through a managed conservation area within the historic Bethania National Historic Landmark District, a Moravian village established in 1759. It's also a renowned spot for wildlife viewing, especially birdwatching, with potential sightings of woodpeckers, Red-shouldered Hawks, and various warblers. The Forsyth Audubon Society actively works to maintain the area, removing invasive plants and planting native species, enhancing its ecological value and making it a prime location for nature enthusiasts.

The Silas Creek Greenway offers a delightful and accessible natural escape right in Winston-Salem. This easy 1.2-mile (1.9 km) hiking trail primarily features an 8-foot wide paved surface, making it suitable for a wide range of users. As you follow the path along Silas Creek, you'll enjoy shaded areas and the potential to observe local wildlife, providing a peaceful and rejuvenating experience away from city bustle.

With a minimal 21 feet (6 metres) of elevation gain and an estimated duration of just 28 minutes, this route is perfect for a quick, refreshing walk. You can access the greenway from various points, including Shaffner Park and connections near Silas Creek Parkway. While the main greenway is generally dog-friendly, it's wise to check local signage, as some related trails in the area, like the "Silas Creek Loop," have specific restrictions against dogs.

This greenway is a fantastic option for beginners or anyone seeking a convenient dose of nature without a strenuous commitment. Its consistent "easy" difficulty and short length make it ideal for a leisurely stroll, providing a quiet, natural environment that feels surprisingly secluded despite its urban setting. It's a great way to enjoy the outdoors when you're short on time.

The Long Creek Park Trail offers a distinctive hiking experience, winding through a landscape reimagined from a former golf course. You'll navigate mostly paved paths, remnants of old golf-cart routes, interspersed with dirt sections and rolling hills that include some steep inclines. Enjoy open fields, wooded edges, and scenic water views, with bridges crossing over creeks, all while keeping an eye out for diverse wildlife in this rewilding natural area.

Planning your visit to Long Creek Park is straightforward; it's a popular and dog-friendly trail, so you'll likely share the path with others. The 4.5-mile (7.3 km) route, with its 254 feet (77 metres) of elevation gain, is rated moderate and typically takes about 2 hours and 22 minutes to complete. The park also features amenities like a swimming pool and picnic shelters, making it suitable for a longer stay.

What truly sets this trail apart is its unique origin as a golf course, now transformed into a tranquil natural space. Despite its urban surroundings in Winston-Salem, it provides a surprising sense of seclusion and is recognized as an excellent spot for birdwatching. The park also preserves remnants of a 1784 grist mill site, adding a layer of historical interest to your outdoor adventure.

The Muddy Creek Greenway offers a wonderfully accessible and scenic escape, winding along the tranquil Muddy Creek through a mix of woodlands, open meadows, and even past horse pastures. This easy 2.8-mile (4.5 km) hike, taking about 1 hour and 8 minutes with only 33 feet (10 metres) of elevation gain, is entirely paved and flat, making it a perfect choice for a relaxed outing. You'll find plenty of shade in sections, particularly between Meadowlark Drive and Country Club Road, providing a comfortable experience even on sunny days.

Planning your visit is simple, with multiple access points and ample parking available, including at Robinhood Road near Jefferson Elementary and directly at Jamison Park. While the trail is generally in excellent condition, it's worth noting that some sections, especially north of Robinhood Road, can accumulate standing water and mud after significant rainfall, so checking Muddy Creek Greenway conditions today might be wise. Its gentle nature makes it an ideal option for families, those with strollers, or anyone seeking a leisurely walk.

Beyond its easy accessibility, the Muddy Creek Greenway is a haven for wildlife, often described as a birdwatcher's paradise where you might spot cardinals, herons, or even wild turkeys, alongside deer and turtles. The trail seamlessly integrates with community amenities near Jamison Park Winston-Salem, which features a nature-themed playground and a dog park, extending your outing options. Well-marked mileage posts and benches along the route enhance the experience for all users.