Worthwhile Walking Spots and Trails

By: Emily LeBaron

Whether you are looking for a challenging workout or a leisurely stroll, Winston-Salem has an overabundance of excellent destinations for walking. We have gathered some of our personal favorites below.

Reynolda 

  • Location: 2250 Reynolda Rd, Winston-Salem, NC 27106
  • 170-acre estate; some trails paved and others packed dirt; flat and hilly at times
  • Accessible to strollers
  • Incredibly beautiful scenery- from the well-kept gardens, stunning Reynolda house, sprawling magnolia trees, and lofty woods 
  • Like a ‘Pick Your Own Adventure’ story, there are many options.  You can start at the bottom lot in Reynolda Village and take a walk up the hill towards Wake Forest University, through the paved trail in the woods, past the waterfall and creek. You could also head in the other direction, past Reynolda House and the open front lawn, crossing over Reynolda Rd. and walking onto the stunning Graylyn estates.  You can even choose to be more adventurous, walking on the dirt trails through the woods of Reynolda. If you are just wanting a short stroll, you can wander through the beautifully-maintained gardens.
  • Tip: So many fun reasons to stay after your walk- whether it be for coffee and doughnuts at Dough Joe’s or shop around at the many stores in Reynolda Village

Salem Lake

  • Location: 815 Salem Lake Road, Winston-Salem, NC 27107 (one of two access points; the other is in Kernersville)
  • 7 mile trail; mostly packed dirt and sand; primarily flat with a few hills.
  • Accessible to strollers
  • The serene water is at your side for the entire loop and nature is at your fingertips with sightings of deer, beavers, ducks and geese (to name a few).
  • Tip:  Make it educational for the kids with the Kids in Parks signs along the trail, which provide information about the local animals, plants, and more! 

Muddy Creek Greenway 

  • Location: 285 Meadowlark Dr, Winston-Salem, NC 27106 (one of several access points)
  • 3 miles long; paved and flat
  • Accessible to strollers
  • This walking trail feels tucked away and has lovely surroundings including woods, open fields with horses, and a unique bridge over a bustling creek.  
  • Tip: It’s fun to venture off the trail and into the woods- especially if you have a furry friend who wants a drink in the tiny creek or kids who want to dip their feet in the water.

Quarry Park

  • Location: 1790 Quarry Rd, Winston-Salem, NC 27107
  • Encompasses 200.34 acres; paved trail
  • Accessible to strollers
  • There are several stunning overlooks- especially the overlook pier, which has views of downtown and the quarry.
  • Tip: Stay late and watch the sunset!

Miller Park

  • Location: 400 Leisure Ln, Winston-Salem, NC 27103 (Miller Park parking lot; a few access points)
  • 1.4 miles; mostly paved and hilly
  • Accessible to strollers
  • Most locals know this location for its great playground area, but the trails that surround the playground are just as impressive! The hilly, wooded trails are great for a warm day thanks to the shade from all the trees. 
  • Tip: Pack a picnic and enjoy a bite under one of the shelters nestled amongst the trees (must reserve for events). If you want to make your walk longer, continue walking through the historic Ardmore neighborhood.

Bethabara Greenway

  • Location: 2147 Bethabara Rd, Winston-Salem, 27106 (Historic Bethabara Park Visitor Center parking lot)
  • 2.7 miles
  • Some spots not accessible to strollers
  • This unique trail connects the 300-year-old Moravian settlement of Bethabara to adjacent neighborhoods and shopping centers, with access to historical Bethabara Park. As you walk you will go through boardwalks, wetlands and woods.
  • Tip: Be on the lookout for one of the more than 126 bird species that live in this wildlife preserve.

Mentioned:

%d bloggers like this: