Charlotte, North Carolina, certainly fits the bill as a major urban city, with a population just shy of one million. However, while hiking may seem like an unlikely pastime, residents and visitors can easily trade the concrete jungle for happy trails.
Pockets of natural spaces abound inside the city limits, providing ample opportunities for outdoor adventures. Moreover, with its location in the state’s central Piedmont region, Charlotte offers easy access to some of the state’s most beautiful hiking locations.
The Piedmont’s rolling hills are the gateway to mountainous terrain and more secluded open spaces. Therefore, lace up your hiking boots, grab the sunscreen, and prepare to explore. Here are eight of the area’s best hiking trails.
Little Sugar Creek Greenway: 7th St to Morehead St
Best easy urban hike
2.64 miles round trip, 1-2 hours, easy
This pedestrian walking path winds along a waterway through the heart of the city. For the past decade, the area has been the focus of massive beautification and restoration efforts, leading to the creation of this scenic greenway.
This short portion is paved and relatively flat, making it accessible to people of all ages and abilities. It is also part of the Carolina Thread Trail and the Trail of History.
Public parking is available, and the segment passes through four parks. Thanks to a now healthy and thriving natural habitat, an array of birds, grasses, and wildflowers can be seen along the creek.
U.S. Whitewater Center: Channel Loop
Best hike for groups/families
0.8 miles one-way, 30 mins to 1 hour, easy
Combining your hike with a visit to this sprawling recreational facility (about a half-hour drive from Charlotte) provides loads of fun – even more so if you’re with a group. Parking is $6 for the whole day, but all of the trails are free.
The Channel Loop is one of the shortest, yet it has the potential to be action-packed. On its own, it’s a nice way to get a feel for what the U.S. Whitewater Center offers. However, the best way to enjoy the day is to incorporate mountain biking and other activities like the Deep Water Solo climbing complex or the ropes course.
McDowell Nature Preserve: Kingfisher Trail
Best hike for bird watching
1.1 miles one-way, easy
Nature-lovers will appreciate the McDowell Nature Preserve (18 miles southwest of Charlotte) for its abundant wildlife and unspoiled scenery around Lake Wylie. Loons, ospreys, salamanders, and snakes make this hike an exciting opportunity to observe diverse wildlife.
The Kingfisher Trail follows the coastline, offering waterfront stops where you can enjoy the view or have a snack. It’s free to enter the preserve, although there are fees associated with RV and tent camping and certain programs at the nature center.
Morrow Mountain: Bridle Trail (Long Loop)
Best hike for a weekend getaway
9.3 miles, 4-5 hours, moderate
Among the various hiking spots at Morrow Mountain in Albemarle (just over 40 miles from Charlotte), the Bridle Trail is one of several horse trails available.
It’s broken up into three loops: Short, Middle, and Long. For those on foot, the starting point is an easy walk from the main entrance, and much of the path is flat gravel, though there are some water crossings along the way.
If you’re looking to extend your adventure, there are multiple lodging options available, from rustic cabins to primitive backpack camping. An attraction worth checking out is the historic Kron house. Francis Kron was among the first doctors in the county and lived in the area in the 1800s.
Crowders Mountain State Park: Rocktop Trail
Best pet-friendly hike
5.9 miles one-way, 2-4 hours, moderate to hard
Four-legged trail companions will enjoy the chance to leap and bound at Crowders in Kings Mountain, approximately 33 miles west of Charlotte. On leash, pets are allowed on all trails and in the campgrounds.
The Rocktop Trail is well-managed and easy to navigate, marked by a “red square” trail blaze. However, the terrain can be challenging in places and may be better suited for more experienced hikers.
As a popular park for weekend hikers and climbers, be prepared for fellow foot traffic and potentially crowded parking lots.
Lake Norman: Itusi Trail
Best moderate hike
30.5 miles, multi-day, moderate to hard
This expansive “inland sea” was constructed in the late 1950s as part of a larger dam project. The Itusi Trail lies to its north, inside Lake Norman State Park (40 miles north of Charlotte). This 30-mile trail is divided into eight smaller loops, allowing you to customize your hiking experience. Take your time and enjoy the scenery over several days, or tackle the entire journey in one go.
Parking is free, and there are additional amenities – including swimming and fishing – to enjoy before or after your trek. Cabins, tent, and trailer campsites are also available for rent.
Linville Gorge: Mountains-To-Sea Trail
Best strenuous hike
75.2 miles one-way, multi-day, difficult
The 1,000-mile Mountains-To-Sea Trail spans the length of North Carolina, and completing a thorough hike can take months. Segment 4 (of 18) runs through the Linville Gorge Wilderness, located two hours northwest of Charlotte in the Pisgah National Forest.
The area was named after William Linville, the uncle of the famed explorer Daniel Boone; however, the Cherokee referred to it as Eeseeoh, which means “river of the cliffs.”
The rocky terrain is blanketed with pine forests and rhododendrons, offering steep challenges, but the spectacular views are well worth the effort. Furthermore, the MST intersects with the Blue Ridge Parkway and the primary Linville Gorge Trail, leading to the popular Linville Falls.
Uwharrie National Forest: Dickey Bell
Best hike for off-roaders
3.5 miles one-way, hours, difficult
If you’re looking to blend some 4×4 excitement with your hike, Dickey Bell (approximately 49 miles east of Charlotte) is the place to go. Part of the larger Badin Lake Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Trail Complex, this area welcomes dirt bikes, ATVs, and various trail vehicles, featuring 16 miles of trails accessible via six trailheads.
Trail users should be aware that while hikers do not need a permit, riders do. Available trails range from easy to extremely difficult, showcasing a variety of challenging terrains.
Passes are $5 for a full day. This seasonal trail is closed during the winter months, so check the park’s website before your visit.
