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Best Hiking In The Raleigh-Durham Triangle Area

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Embrace the beauty of nature and explore the great outdoors with the best hiking trails in the Raleigh-Durham Triangle area.

From scenic overlooks and cascading waterfalls to lush forests and rolling hills, these trails offer a variety of landscapes and difficulty levels for hikers of all experience levels to enjoy.

RankNC's Top Picks

Lace up your hiking boots, pack a picnic, and embark on an adventure to discover the natural beauty of the Triangle.

1. Eno River State Park

Durham

Explore the tranquil beauty of the Eno River State Park, with over 28 miles of hiking trails winding along the scenic Eno River. 

This park offers diverse trails, from riverside strolls to challenging hikes, including the renowned Cox Mountain and Fews Ford Loop trails.

2. Umstead State Park

Raleigh

Discover the natural beauty of Umstead State Park, with over 20 miles of hiking trails nestled amidst lush forests and tranquil lakes. 

Hikers can enjoy scenic views and wildlife sightings on trails like Sycamore, Company Mill, and Loblolly.

3. Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area

Hillsborough

Embark on a scenic hike to the highest point in Orange County at Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area. 

Hikers can explore panoramic views and winding trails through forests, bluffs, and streams at Occoneechee Mountain.

4. Jordan Lake State Recreation Area

Apex

Discover the natural beauty of Jordan Lake State Recreation Area with over 14 miles of hiking trails winding along the shores of the picturesque Jordan Lake. 

Hikers can explore scenic trails like New Hope Overlook, Seaforth Loop, and Blue Loop, ideal for birdwatching and wildlife viewing.

5. Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve

Cary

Experience the beauty of a rare mountain-like ecosystem at Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve in Cary.

Hikers can explore trails through hemlock trees, rocky bluffs, and lush ravines, enjoying scenic overlooks and educational exhibits on flora and fauna.

6. Lake Johnson Park

Raleigh

Enjoy a leisurely hike along the scenic trails of Lake Johnson Park in Raleigh.

With over 5 miles of hiking trails winding around the picturesque lake, hikers can enjoy tranquil views, abundant wildlife, and fishing, boating, and picnicking opportunities.

7. American Tobacco Trail

Durham

Embark on a scenic journey along the American Tobacco Trail, a multi-use trail over 22 miles from Durham to Apex.

Hikers can explore a variety of landscapes, including wooded areas, open fields, and wetlands, and enjoy opportunities for birdwatching, wildlife viewing, and outdoor recreation along the trail.

8. Carolina North Forest

Chapel Hill

Discover the natural beauty of Carolina North Forest, a 750-acre nature preserve located just north of Chapel Hill. 

Hikers can explore a network of trails winding through mature forests, meadows, and creeks and enjoy scenic overlooks, wildlife sightings, and opportunities for outdoor recreation throughout the preserve.

9. Falls Lake State Recreation Area

Durham

Escape to the serene shores of Falls Lake State Recreation Area and explore over 30 miles of hiking trails winding through scenic woodlands and along the picturesque lake.

Hikers can enjoy a variety of trails, including the Falls Lake Trail, Rolling View Trail, and Mountains-to-Sea Trail, each offering stunning views and opportunities for outdoor adventure.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Raleigh-Durham Triangle area offers many hiking opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to explore and enjoy.

Whether you prefer strolls along tranquil rivers or challenging hikes to scenic overlooks, these top 10 hiking trails provide the perfect opportunity to connect with nature and discover the natural beauty of the Triangle.

Lace up your hiking boots, pack a water bottle, and embark on an adventure to discover the wonders of the great outdoors in the Raleigh-Durham Triangle area.

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