Top 10 Trails and Hikes in Durham, NC
Nestled in the heart of North Carolina, Durham is a city that boasts not only vibrant urban culture but also a plethora of natural beauty waiting to be explored. From scenic riverbanks to lush forests, hikes in Durham provide a diverse range of outdoor experiences. If you’re an adventure enthusiast or just someone looking to get away from the hustle and bustle, the trails and hikes in Durham, NC are a must-visit. In this article, we will introduce you to the top 10 trails and hikes that will help you discover the stunning natural landscapes Durham has to offer.
Before we dive into these exciting outdoor destinations, we want to highlight a unique way to experience Durham’s natural beauty – RV travel.
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Durham is not only a city of captivating trails and hikes but also an excellent place to explore with an RV. RVnGO, a trusted online platform for RV rentals, offers you the perfect opportunity to blend comfort and adventure. Whether you’re a local looking for a staycation or an out-of-towner exploring the area, RVnGO provides a convenient and comfortable way to experience the beauty of Durham and its surroundings.
Let’s explore both the magnificent trails and RV travel possibilities with Durham RV rentals from RVnGO:
1. Cox Mountain Trail Loop
Trail Length: 4 miles
Hike Difficulty: Moderate
Terrain: Mostly wooded, some elevation changes
Trail Description: Located in Eno River State Park, the Cox Mountain Trail Loop is a 4-mile trek that will thrill hiking enthusiasts. This trail offers breathtaking views of the Eno River and the surrounding wilderness, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore Durham’s natural beauty.
Driving Directions to Cox Mountain Trail Loop: From downtown Durham, take I-85 N. Take exit 173 for Cole Mill Rd. Turn left onto Cole Mill Rd and follow it to the Eno River State Park, where the trail is located.
2. Cabelands Trail to Eno Quarry Trail
Trail Length: 1.9 miles
Hike Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Terrain: Wooded, rocky, leads to a quarry
Trail Description: Another gem in Eno River State Park, this 1.9-mile trail leads to the serene Eno Quarry. It’s an ideal destination for a refreshing swim, perfect for cooling off on a hot North Carolina day. This spot is a hidden oasis in the heart of Durham.
Driving Directions to Cabelands Trail To Eno Quarry Trail: Start at the intersection of N Roxboro St and E Geer St in downtown Durham. Head north on N Roxboro St, and then turn right onto Infinity Rd. Follow Infinity Rd to the Eno River State Park, where the trail begins.
3. Cole Mill Trail Loop to Bobbitt Hole Trail
Trail Length: 2.4 miles
Hike Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Terrain: Wooded, along the river
Trail Description: This 2.4-mile trail in Eno River State Park takes you through a historic site, offering a glimpse into Durham’s past. It concludes at Bobbitt Hole, a picturesque swimming spot, allowing you to unwind amidst nature’s beauty.
Driving Directions to Cole Mill Trail Loop to Bobbitt Hole Trail: From Durham, take I-85 N and take exit 173 for Cole Mill Rd. Head north on Cole Mill Rd, and you’ll find the trailhead in the Eno River State Park.
4. Pump Station Trail to Laurel Bluffs Trail
Trail Length: 5 miles
Hike Difficulty: Moderate
Terrain: Riverside, wooded, some elevation changes
Trail Description: Eno River State Park boasts yet another scenic treasure, the Pump Station Trail to Laurel Bluffs Trail. This 5-mile route is a dream for birdwatchers, providing plenty of opportunities to observe the local avian population in their natural habitat.
Driving Directions to Pump Station Trail to Laurel Bluffs Trail: Starting from downtown Durham, take I-85 N and take exit 173 for Cole Mill Rd. Head north on Cole Mill Rd and you’ll arrive at the Eno River State Park, where the trail begins.
5. Laurel Bluffs to Eno Quarry and Cabe Lands Trail
Trail Length: 4.8 miles
Hike Difficulty: Moderate
Terrain: Wooded, scenic views
Trail Description: Spanning 4.8 miles, this trail takes you through a lush forest before culminating at a stunning quarry. As you make your way through the woods, you’ll be captivated by the natural beauty that surrounds you.
Driving Directions to Laurel Bluffs to Eno Quarry and Cabe Lands Trail: From downtown Durham, take N Roxboro St north, and then turn right onto Infinity Rd. Follow Infinity Rd to the Eno River State Park, where the trail is located.
6. Buckquarter Creek Trail
Trail Length: 1.5 miles
Hike Difficulty: Easy
Terrain: Wooded, family-friendly
Trail Description: Perfect for families with young children, this 1.5-mile trail in Eno River State Park offers a gentle introduction to the wonders of nature. It’s a great option for a relaxing outing with your loved ones.
Driving Directions to Buckquarter Creek Trail: Start at N Roxboro St and E Geer St in downtown Durham. Head north on N Roxboro St and follow signs to Eno River State Park, where the trail can be found.
7. Brumley Forest Nature Preserve North
Trail Length: 3.2 miles
Hike Difficulty: Moderate
Terrain: Forested, scenic views
Trail Description: Venture out of Eno River State Park and explore Brumley Forest Nature Preserve. The 3.2-mile trail here offers panoramic views of the forest, providing nature lovers with an opportunity to immerse themselves in the beauty of Durham’s natural landscapes.
Driving Directions to Brumley Forest Nature Preserve North: Head south on N Roxboro St from downtown Durham, then turn left onto Mineral Springs Rd. Follow the road to reach the Brumley Forest Nature Preserve.
8. American Tobacco Trail from Durham
Trail Length: 21.9 miles
Hike Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Terrain: Former railway line, scenic countryside
Trail Description: Stretching an impressive 21.9 miles, the American Tobacco Trail commences in Durham and takes you on a journey southward, offering scenic views of the North Carolina countryside. This trail is perfect for those who prefer long-distance hikes and cycling adventures.
Driving Directions to American Tobacco Trail from Durham: Begin your journey from downtown Durham. The American Tobacco Trail starts in the city and continues southward, following the old railway line.
9. Eno Trace Trail
Trail Length: 2.7 miles
Hike Difficulty: Easy
Terrain: Forested, riverbank
Trail Description: This 2.7-mile trail in West Point on the Eno guides you through a picturesque forest before leading you to the peaceful banks of the Eno River. It’s a serene path, ideal for those seeking tranquility in the outdoors.
Driving Directions to Eno Trace Trail: Start your journey in Durham and head north on N Roxboro St. Turn right onto Infinity Rd and follow the signs to West Point on the Eno, where you can access the trail.
10. Duke Forest Korstian Division
Trail Length: 7 miles
Hike Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Terrain: Wooded, hilly, scenic vistas
Trail Description: For those who crave longer trails and epic views, the 7-mile trail in Duke Forest Korstian Division is a perfect choice. It’s a challenging path that rewards hikers with breathtaking vistas of the forest, making it a favorite among hiking enthusiasts.
Driving Directions to Duke Forest Korstian Division: Begin your journey in Durham and head west on US-70 W. Follow the road to reach the Duke Forest Korstian Division, where you can embark on this invigorating hike.
Discover Durham RV Rentals with RVnGO
To summarize, these trails offer a wide range of experiences, from peaceful strolls to strenuous hikes, and each of them reveals the natural wonders of Durham, NC. We encourage you to get out and explore these amazing outdoor destinations. But before you set out on your adventure, consider the convenience and comfort of RV travel.
RVnGO is here to make your journey even more enjoyable. With RVnGO, you can rent an RV that suits your needs and preferences. This means you can travel to these incredible trails and hikes in style and comfort. It’s a unique way to experience the beauty of Durham and its natural surroundings.
So, whether you’re a local wanting to explore your city or a traveler in search of new experiences, RVnGO has you covered. Durham’s natural beauty is waiting to be discovered, and an RV adventure is the perfect way to do it. Rent an RV with RVnGO and embark on a memorable journey to these fantastic trails and hikes. The breathtaking landscapes of Durham, NC are calling. Don’t miss your chance to explore them. Start planning your adventure today!
