The De Hart Botanical Gardens Has a Hidden Trail in North Carolina Worthy of a Day Hike

What we find important enough to scribble in our planners should include a day hike in North Carolina. It's so easy to schedule such delightful outings at the end of our weeks or even months, but remember, we owe it to ourselves to pencil in a walk on a hidden trail more frequently. Imagine how the flow of our days might improve with a little fresh air at lunchtime. Louisburg College's De Hart Botanical Gardens offers plenty of places to get away, some of which you may not be acquainted with.

The lovely De Hart Botanical Gardens in Louisburg are open to the public from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., offering plenty of time for a quick day hike in North Carolina. The property includes preserved forestation and this open area with an extraordinary lake that protects a wide range of interesting botanical species. One of the trails inside the garden is the Franklin County Nature Preserve Trail, which is only a mile and a half long.

The property borders U.S. Route 401 on the east side, five and a half miles south of Louisburg. It's a pleasing respite near the city to relax and unwind, only taking a half-hour commitment. In addition to colorful butterflies, some interesting highlights include remnants of a former homestead—the De Hart Botanical Gardens is part of the former Myrtle Timberlake Plantation estate.

Look for mysterious foundations of the Myrtle Timberlake home on a spur trail for the Waterfall Trail. The Waterfall Trail is to the left, and while most North Carolina waterfalls are known for their height and grandeur, don't underestimate the power this pretty little waterfall has for adding to the ambiance!

The gardens are also available for community concerts, picnicking, 5K runs, weddings, and educational sessions. And lots of inspiration any time of year. Ninety-two pretty acres in all house a museum, a residence, and other structures.

Here's what one recent traveler had to share about this peaceful North Carolina day hike: "Small pocket of nature with many well-maintained and interesting trails. The lake outlook is a special view you don’t get often. We explored the park for about an hour and a half and enjoyed every minute!"

A couple of things to know before you go: Admission into the gardens is free. Dogs are welcome, but must remain on leash throughout the visit.

Discover more about this day hike in North Carolina on the De Hart Botanical Gardens web page. If you like to hike, consider a free trial of AllTrails+. If you feel so inspired, be sure to share this article with a fellow hiking enthusiast and begin planning your next adventure! For a fantastic and imaginative meal, drive about 15 minutes to Rustic Roots in Bunn.