Looking to hike near Charlotte, North Carolina, or in the Charlotte metro? I’ve got you covered with seven of my favorite trails in the area. These spots are quick to get to and provide some nature away from the city.
These trails can vary from simple to strenuous for a hike near Charlotte. I’ll mention the difficulty rating, but I’d recommend doing some additional research if you’re concerned. Given Charlotte’s location in the Piedmont, there is usually a variety of terrain that fits most people.
For those looking to get a detailed look at the outdoors in and around Charlotte, I built this guide to prepare and inform you. Hiking near Charlotte or in the city generally is simple. But, it’s always good to be prepared. Now, let me get into the trails themselves for a hike near Charlotte.
1. Founders & Masons Bend Trails
Both these trails that run along the Catawba River make a great hike near Charlotte. They are fairly flat, so they are great for walking more than hiking. But, the scenery on the Catawba River is special. Additionally, the rocks around Masons Bend are unique to see. This trail is located near Fort Mill, SC. Learn more about it here.
2. Forney Creek Trail
Another beautiful trail near Charlotte. Located in Denver, NC, Forney Creek is a short drive from Charlotte’s metro. This trail features flat terrain with some hilly sections. Along the trail, you will get taken back to a swampy landscape tucked behind the foliage. Learn more about it here.
3. Big Oak, Umbrella, and Dragonfly Loop in Reedy Creek
Reedy Creek Nature Preserve offers a big chunk of natural acreage so close to the city center. This loop will take you through the forests of Reedy Creek Nature Preserve. You can also venture off to Robinsons Rockhouse Trail to see the ruins of an old house made of stone.
4. Mountain Creek Loop
Mountain Creek Park in Sherrills Ford, NC is my favorite mountain biking park. But that doesn’t mean you can’t hike there. Mountain Creek Loop in the very back of the park is great for an intermediate, mile-intensive hike. Just watch out for bikers. You can learn more about the park here.
5. Uwharrie National Recreation Trail
About an hour’s drive east of Charlotte is the Uwharrie National Forest. Here, you can find this 40-mile, strenuous trail. You’ll cover the rolling mountain range of the Uwharries and experience a landscape unique to that area. Learn more about the national forest here.
6. Ridgeline Trail in Kings Mountain
Near the popular Crowders Mountain State Park is the Ridgeline Trail. It covers quite a few miles from Crowders to Kings Mountain State Park in South Carolina. Another great option for a strenuous hike.
7. Cove Trail in Latta Nature Preserve
Latta Nature Preserve offers a great place to explore Mountain Island Lake. Cove Trail, an intermediate hike, offers a great way to explore the lakeshore. Be sure to check out the cool rock formations along other trails at Latta Nature Preserve. You can learn more about Mountain Island Lake here.
I truly love being in this area because of the many local spots to get outside. Trails like these make it great to enjoy a hike near Charlotte. Especially all of the trails with water features. Those bring out the calmness in me.
If you’re looking for more outdoor information, Just Chillin Outdoors has you covered. I cover a variety of topics, from environmental data to places for great outdoor activities. Please check out some of my other posts in the blogs section to see where the fun is. Now go get outdoors!
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