Winston-Salem Trails: Your Ultimate Guide To Walking, Biking, And Outdoor Adventures

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Are you looking for a place to stretch your legs, walk the dog, or hop on your bike for a bit of fresh air? You’re in the right place. You don’t have to travel far in Winston-Salem to find a beautiful trail. Whether you’re chasing a sunrise around Salem Lake, biking along a leafy greenway, or strolling through the gardens at Reynolda, the perfect outdoor escape is right in your backyard.

From quick strolls to more challenging treks, you’ll find a variety of trails to match your pace and mood and enjoy the outdoors at your own pace. So, lace up your shoes, grab your water bottle, and discover the perfect Winston-Salem trail for you!

In Winston-Salem, Wandering Is Part of the Journey

There’s something special about exploring Winston-Salem. Trails here can slip quietly from busy streets into shaded woods, winding past creeks, gardens, and historic landmarks that feel hidden in plain sight. A simple bike ride might lead you to an art museum or an old tobacco road turned into a vibrant greenway. Walking through a quiet park might end with a view you didn’t expect: a lake, a waterfall, or a grove of towering trees you’d never guessed was tucked behind the city.

Every path tells a story, and every turn offers the chance to see a different side of Winston-Salem — one that blends nature, history, and adventure into something uniquely its own. Out here, the outdoors isn’t a destination. They’re part of the everyday magic that makes this city so easy to fall in love with.

A Local’s Favorite Trails and Outdoor Treasures

Our lovely city has lots of accessible trails, regardless of where you live. Reynolda Gardens and Village, located just minutes from downtown, features miles of beautiful trails and gardens, spanning across meadows and forests. If you want a little more altitude, the iconic Pilot Mountain is only 20 minutes away.

– Alex Schenker, Resident & Co-Founder of MyWinston-Salem.com

Walking Trails: Peaceful Paths Through Nature

Sometimes, you just want to leave the busy streets behind and find a quiet place to walk — a path where the only sounds are birds overhead and the gentle splash of water nearby. Luckily, Winston-Salem has no shortage of beautiful walking trails that offer just that.

Here are a few favorite spots to start your next stroll:

• Salem Lake Trail: Salem Lake Trail features a shady, 7-mile loop around the lake. It offers peaceful water views and plenty of chances to spot wildlife like frogs and birds. This lovely lakeside trail is located at 815 Salem Lake Road; you can enter at either Marina or Linville Road.
• Reynolda Gardens: Reynolda Gardens invites visitors to explore paved and natural trails through historic gardens. Seasonal blooms, wooded pathways, and open fields create a picturesque setting. The Reynolda Walking Trail is located at 2250 Reynolda Road, Winston-Salem.
• The Quarry at Grant Park Trails: The Quarry’s short, paved trails lead to breathtaking overlooks of the old quarry. This is one of the best places in Winston-Salem for scenic views and sunset walks. You can find this local gem at 1790 Quarry Road, Winston-Salem. Visitors can walk or bike in through the Waughtown Connector Greenway.

You might even catch a glimpse of deer, turtles, or owls along the way, so keep your eyes open!

Shops, Trails, and Gardens: Our Personal Experience at Reynolda Village

One of my favorite places to explore is Reynolda Village and its beautiful grounds. You’ll find charming boutiques like Monkee’s, which is a must-visit for women’s fashion, along with cozy shops and some excellent dining spots — The Village Tavern is a Winston-Salem staple, especially if you can grab a table on the patio for fantastic outdoor dining.

Beyond the shops and restaurants, there’s a peaceful walking path that winds through the woods, past wetlands, a small waterfall, and a few quiet lakes (one of them is even home to a family of beavers). The formal gardens are stunning, too, especially when everything is in bloom. It’s the perfect spot to slow down and enjoy the quieter side of the city.

– Sally Jones, – Frequent Reynolda Village Visitor

Want even more places to explore? Check out our Walking Trails guide for a complete list, including greenways and city park trails across Winston-Salem.

Running Trails: Hit Your Stride in Winston-Salem

Winston-Salem is proud to be recognized as a “Runner Friendly Community.” This means it offers the infrastructure, community support, and safe environments runners need to thrive. Across the city, you’ll find a variety of trails perfect for every kind of run.

Some trails are fully paved, ideal for a smooth, steady pace. Others wind through forests, historic neighborhoods, or alongside lakes for a more natural experience. Whatever your running style, there’s a trail that fits.

Here are a few top spots for runners in Winston-Salem:

• Long Branch Trail: This fully paved urban greenway connects downtown Winston-Salem to the Salem Creek Greenway. It’s an easy route for city runs with parks, murals, and skyline views.
• Salem Creek Greenway: Stretching over five miles, the Salem Creek Greenway offers a mostly flat, paved surface perfect for long, uninterrupted runs through wooded areas and past parks. Salem Lake Greenway is the most centrally located off-road trail in Winston-Salem. It connects Washington Park to the scenic shores of Salem Lake.
• Mudlick Creek Greenway: A quieter, lesser-known option, this greenway offers a flat, paved trail ideal for steady runs without heavy foot traffic. You can access the trail at the intersection of Jefferson School Road and Robinhood Road or near Meadowlark Middle and Elementary Schools at 301 Meadowlark Drive in Winston-Salem.

Wherever you run, Winston-Salem’s trails are ready to meet you at your pace. Check out our Running Trails guide for even more routes to explore. If you’re interested in participating in local races, check out our comprehensive guide to upcoming running events in Winston-Salem.

Hiking Trails: Scenic Adventures Just Minutes Away

If you’re ready to pack a backpack and set out for breathtaking views, mountain climbs, wildflower meadows, or peaceful waterfalls, Winston-Salem is the perfect place to start. Some of the region’s most incredible escapes are just minutes from the city, offering a quick getaway into nature whenever you need it.

Whether you want to scramble up rocky cliffs, wander shaded forest paths, or cool off by a hidden waterfall, the trails around Winston-Salem offer adventures for every skill level and style.

Here are a few favorite hiking destinations near Winston-Salem:

• Pilot Mountain State Park: Just 30 minutes from downtown, Pilot Mountain offers dramatic views, rugged cliffside trails, and a range of hikes from easy loops to strenuous climbs to the summit.
• Hanging Rock State Park: Known for its waterfalls, rock outcroppings, and sweeping mountain views, Hanging Rock features more than 20 miles of trails that range from relaxed strolls to steep, rewarding hikes.
• Doughton Park: Located along the Blue Ridge Parkway, Doughton Park offers some of the most scenic hiking near Winston-Salem, with open meadows, mountain streams, and challenging backcountry trails.

Looking for something even closer? Tanglewood Park also offers wooded nature trails right in town — perfect for a quick escape into the outdoors.

Ready to find your next great hike? Explore our full Hiking Trails guide for more trails, tips, and outdoor adventures waiting just a short drive away.

Bike Trails: Explore Winston-Salem on Two Wheels

Biking is a great way to get outside, stay active, and have a little fun along the way. In Winston-Salem, it’s also an alternate way to travel across the city, whether commuting, exploring parks, or heading out for a family weekend ride.

The city offers plenty of off-road routes that keep cyclists safe and comfortable, including miles of connected Greenways and trails through city parks. On-street biking is also supported here. Bike lanes and shared roadways in many areas make riding easier and safer for everyone.

You’ll find the perfect trail to match your ride from coasting, cruising, or racing the kids to the next bend. And mountain bikers, don’t worry, we didn’t forget you. Some incredible trails are nearby just waiting for your next off-road ride. Here are a few favorite spots to ride:

Pleasure and Recreational Biking Trails:

• Greenway Loop: A smooth, easy-to-navigate network of paved Greenways that loops through parks, neighborhoods, and natural areas across Winston-Salem.
• Bowen Branch Greenway: A peaceful, mostly flat trail ideal for a relaxed ride, connecting through neighborhoods and offering plenty of shade.
• Cascades Preserve Loop: A scenic 1.2-mile trail perfect for beginner cyclists or families, with gentle terrain and wooded views in a quiet nature preserve.

Mountain Biking Trails

• Hobby Park: Hobby Park features some of the area’s best mountain biking trails, with options ranging from beginner loops to more technical, challenging tracks.
• Horizons Park: Horizons Park offers off-road mountain biking trails with rolling hills, wooded paths, and fun elevation changes for all skill levels.
• Tanglewood Park: In addition to its paved paths, Tanglewood has wooded trails where mountain bikers can enjoy a more rugged, off-road ride surrounded by nature.

Ready to ride? Check out our full Best Bike Trails guide for more easy-to-expert routes across Winston-Salem and beyond. Our full guide includes even more details on the Greenways and City Bike Routes around Winston-Salem.

Yadkin Valley Wine Trail: Sip, Savor, and Explore

Just a short drive from Winston-Salem, the Yadkin Valley Wine Trail offers an unforgettable experience. This one is perfect for wine lovers and weekend adventurers alike. This beautiful region is home to vineyards that produce world-class, award-winning wines. Many host welcoming tasting rooms, on-site restaurants, and special events throughout the year.

Whether you’re planning a leisurely afternoon at a single winery or a full day of exploring, there’s no shortage of places to sip and savor. Live music, festivals, and seasonal celebrations are common at many vineyards, adding even more charm to your visit.

Yadkin Valley Wineries to Visit

• Adagio Vineyards: Located in Elkin, Adagio Vineyards offers a welcoming atmosphere with guided wine tastings featuring nine handcrafted wines. The vineyard is both child- and pet-friendly, making it a relaxed spot for families and casual visitors.
• Brandon Hills Vineyard: A small, family-owned vineyard in Yadkinville, Brandon Hills Vineyard has won multiple awards, including a Double Gold Medal for their Raptor Red. Visitors can enjoy a cozy tasting room experience and bring their pets along, too.
• Cellar 4201 Vineyard: Just 15 minutes from Winston-Salem, Cellar 4201 is a boutique, family-owned vineyard known for its Sangiovese and other varietals. It’s part of the Yadkin River Wine Trail and offers a more intimate tasting experience away from the crowds.

Be sure to check individual winery websites for details on hours, events, and winter schedules. Ready to plan your trip? Check out our Best Yadkin Valley Wineries guide for our favorite spots to taste, tour, and enjoy.

What trails do you use in Winston-Salem? Tell us in the comments.

Hidden Trails and Local Secrets to Explore

Beyond the well-known parks and greenways, Winston-Salem has even more hidden trails for those willing to explore a little deeper. The Salem Lake Dam Trail offers a quieter path with wide-open views across the lake, providing a respite from the busier main loop. The Little Creek Greenway winds along a peaceful creek through quiet neighborhoods. It’s perfect for a low-key ride or walk. In Washington Park, small wooded trails branch away from the open spaces, providing shady, secluded pockets to explore. In the Ardmore neighborhood, Miller Park offers winding, wooded trails behind its recreation center, providing a surprising natural escape right in the heart of town.

Ready for Even More Adventures?

Winston-Salem’s trails are just the beginning. Once you’ve explored the city’s parks, greenways, and hidden gems, there’s a whole world of outdoor adventures waiting nearby. Plan a day trip to hike the Blue Ridge Mountains or explore the waterfalls at Hanging Rock. You can also explore historic sites like Old Salem and Bethabara Park, where nature and history meet. Whether you’re looking for scenic drives, paddling trips, winery tours, farmer’s markets, or mountain hikes, you’ll find plenty of ways to keep your outdoor adventures going just beyond the city limits.