Day Trips from Winston-Salem
← All Winston-Salem day tripsDay Trips from Winston-Salem: Hiking Trails & Nature
Find the best hiking trails and nature destinations within driving distance of Winston-Salem, NC. From easy lakeside walks to challenging ridge hikes, these day trip trails deliver real scenery without the plane ticket. Drive times, ratings, and trail info included.
12 hiking trails near Winston-Salem
Stevens Creek Nature Preserve
Mint Hill, NC 28227
Just 1 hr 17 min from Winston-Salem, rated 4.9 stars by 265 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
South Mountains State Park
Connelly Springs, NC 28612
Just 1 hr 34 min from Winston-Salem, rated 4.9 stars by 2,909 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Mount Mitchell State Park
Burnsville, NC 28714
Just 2 hrs 57 min from Winston-Salem, rated 4.9 stars by 5,295 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
New River Gorge National Park & Preserve
USA
Just 2 hrs 45 min from Winston-Salem, rated 4.9 stars by 5,921 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve
Cary, NC 27518
Just 1 hr 38 min from Winston-Salem, rated 4.8 stars by 1,422 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
The Channels
VA 24280, USA
Just 2 hrs 52 min from Winston-Salem, rated 4.8 stars by 340 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Linville Falls - Trail and Waterfall
NC 28657, USA
Just 2 hrs 7 min from Winston-Salem, rated 4.8 stars by 1,830 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Natural Bridge State Park
Natural Bridge, VA 24578
Just 2 hrs 38 min from Winston-Salem, rated 4.8 stars by 8,139 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Raven Rock State Park
Lillington, NC 27546
Just 1 hr 37 min from Winston-Salem, rated 4.8 stars by 3,682 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Grandfather Mountain State Park
Banner Elk, NC 28604
Just 1 hr 58 min from Winston-Salem, rated 4.8 stars by 6,617 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Weymouth Woods - Sandhills Nature Preserve
Southern Pines, NC 28387
Just 1 hr 44 min from Winston-Salem, rated 4.8 stars by 689 visitors, rich in history and well worth exploring.
Best time to visit: Year-round. Indoor museums and historic sites are great rainy-day options.
Eno River State Park
NC 27705, USA
Just 1 hr 12 min from Winston-Salem, rated 4.8 stars by 2,633 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hiking Trails Day Trips from Winston-Salem
What are the best hiking trails near Winston-Salem, NC?
The best hikes near Winston-Salem range from easy nature preserve loops to challenging state park trails with waterfalls, overlooks, and canyon scenery. Check the cards above for top-rated options with real drive times.
Are there easy hikes near Winston-Salem?
Yes. Many state parks and nature preserves near Winston-Salem offer well-maintained, beginner-friendly trails under 3 miles. Look for "Nature" tagged destinations above for the most accessible options.
What should I bring on a day hike from Winston-Salem?
Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and layers. Most trails near Winston-Salem are well-marked but cell service can be spotty in state parks. Download trail maps before you leave and wear sturdy shoes.
When is the best time to hike near Winston-Salem?
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the best hiking weather and scenery near Winston-Salem. Fall foliage is spectacular at most destinations. Summer works but can be hot and buggy. Winter hiking is possible at many parks with proper gear.
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