This Little-Known Trail Is Quite Possibly The Best Biking, Horseback Riding, and Walking Path In North Carolina

One of my favorite hiking trails in North Carolina is the Salem Lake Trail over at Salem Lake Park. Located just a short distance from downtown Winston-Salem, this beautiful park’s crown jewel is the 365-acre lake that’s a favorite spot for fishing. The seven-mile trail at the park weaves around the lake, offering beautiful waterfront views nearly every step of the way and endless opportunities for wildlife viewing. 

Relax your mind at this gorgeous, little-known path in North Carolina. Salem Lake Trail is a 7.1-mile loop that guides folks around the 365-acre Salem Lake in Winston-Salem. This journey is easy, allowing plenty of time to take in the pretty views of the water and the interesting birds, turtles, and other wildlife. And if you're into fishing, the lovely lake offers pier and boat fishing for bream, crappie, large-mouth bass, catfish, and others. Anyone 16 or older will need a North Carolina fishing license prior to dropping a line.

Parking spaces are available in the paved lot off Salem Lake Road at the west end of the trail, all of which are van-accessible.

Prior to starting the hike, be sure to visit the nature center to learn about the area. There are restrooms here, too.

The trail surface is flat, paved, or a mixture of gravel and dirt, and is about six feet wide. It's a multi-use trail, with hikers, cyclists, runners, and equestrians all using the trail.

And plenty of room is available for horseback riders too.

Bicyclists might want to watch out for rocks and tree roots which are often hidden under the leaves.

Whichever way you roll, be sure to stop and snap some photos of the peaceful, blue lake.

We love the variety of scenery through the limbs on this tree-covered path.

There are several picnic tables peppered around the park. Pack a lunch and enjoy a meal with a view!

Each season brings gorgeous gifts for the senses. It's a beautiful spot year-round, but each season brings something different. It's one of those places you'll want to visit throughout the year so you can watch the North Carolinian landscape change with the seasons.

For more information about the Salem Lake Trail, visit the AllTrails website.

While you're in Winston-Salem, explore the oldest hotel in North Carolina that is also one of the most haunted — the Brookstown Inn. Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.