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Looking to get outside in Charlotte? Despite its urban landscape, Charlotte is surrounded by trails, parks, and nature preserves where we can hike and enjoy nature. Learn some of the top trails in the Charlotte area, get hiking tips from Bill, and hear about upcoming hiking events!
Top Hikes in Charlotte:
- Lake Norman State Park: North of Charlotte in Troutman, find easy trails, great for families and dog walkers. There’s also a swimming area to cool down in Lake Norman on hot summer days!
- Reedy Creek Nature Preserve: This park has over 10 miles of trails, mostly flat and unmarked. This is a great destination for bird-watching. (Check out last week’s Carolina Outdoors episode on bird-watching with Judy Walker of the Mecklenburg Audobon Society).
- Crowder’s Mountain State Park: Just south of Charlotte, this is one of the most popular hikes in the area. The trail to the summit boasts 360-degree panoramic views, and you can see the Charlotte skyline on a clear day.
- Kings Mountain State Park: On the South Carolina side of Crowder’s Mountain, this state park offers multiple loop trails, as well as a Military National Park.
- South Mountain State Park: Check out the hike to High Shoals Falls, a beautiful waterfall in between Shelby and Morganton.
- Latta Nature Preserve: Next to Mountain Island Lake, find a variety of trails, as well as an equestrian center and raptor center.
Hiking Tips:
- Take more water than you think you need.
- Get proper and supportive footwear. Stop by Jesse Brown’s or shop online to find the best hiking shoe for you!
- Be prepared for the weather, whether it’s hot, freezing, or raining.
- Always let someone know when you go on a hike, especially if you’re going by yourself.
- Leave no trace: stay on the marked trail, pack out your trash, and be mindful of wildlife.
- Go early in the day to avoid crowds. If you hike in the evening, be mindful of sunset times.
Jesse Brown’s is hosting urban hikes on the SouthPark Loop on Saturday, April 25th and May 2nd. Learn more about the history of the SouthPark area from hike guide Drew Thrasher. Click HERE for more information!
Going on a spring adventure? Jesse Brown’s is Charlotte’s one-stop shop for all things adventure, from jackets to footwear to gear. Shop online HERE!
Check out all upcoming events at Jesse Brown’s HERE!
