Nature Walks and Hiking Trails in Charlotte, NC

Some days you just want to get out, stretch your legs, and get a little fresh air. There comes a time when you get sick of the sidewalks! Whether you are a visitor to the city or a Charlotte local, you deserve a break from the noise and traffic. Use a few hours of your day to explore some of these Charlotte hiking trails or spend an afternoon in the nearby state parks.

Charlotte has 17 different greenways dotting the city with 38 miles of trails to explore. There are access points in nearly every corner of the city. You can find more information, including a map here.

But even beyond the greenways, there are pleny of spots to commune with nature and do a little forest bathing.

Big Rock Nature Preserve

The Big Rock Nature Preserve is a 22-acre wooded area with large granite rock formations and trails located in Ballantyne just 15 miles from the city center. The trail entrance is on a side street of a neighborhood. Note: Big Rock does not have any restroom facilities or parking (other than on the street). Do not park in the pool parking lot as towing is enforced.

McDowell Nature Center and Preserve

Head to the south side of the city, and you can spend the day walking the shores of Lake Wylie at the McDowell Nature Center and Preserve. There are several paths you can take for a stroll, and there are picnic tables with grills to make a day of it. Bird lovers should bring their binoculars as the park is home to 119 different species. Don't go picking any of the greenery, however. The preserve is home to some federally protected endangered plants.

Crowder’s Mountain State Park

Looking for something a bit more adventurous? Take a short drive south on 85 to King’s Mountain to spend a few hours hiking at Crowder’s Mountain. This 5,126-acre state park is located just 33 miles from the city center and boasts over 18 miles of hiking trails. There is also a visitor’s center with museum-quality exhibits, a picnic area with grills, campsites, canoe rentals, fishing, a bouldering field, and an area for rock climbing (a permit may be required).

U.S. National Whitewater Center

If you've read my post about the whitewater center, then you already know it is a good spot for hiking through the woods. The center has miles and miles of trails that can be used by hikers and mountain bikers. Plus, you get to cool off with a beverage from one of the many bars dotting the center after getting your steps in.

Ribbonwalk Nature Preserve

Located on Nevin Road in the North Charlotte neighborhood of Derita. It's only a little over 5 miles from city center. If you wanted to walk all of the available trails, you could get in just over 3 miles, and you'd travel through forest, wetlands, and around a pond. It isn't very stroller-friendly, but you and your dog will love wandering around the 188-acre urban forest.