The next time you’re near the town of Matthews, which is a suburb to the southeast of Charlotte and very near the South Carolina border, head to Purser-Hulsey Park to explore an enchanted forest. As far as hikes go, this one is super easy and will keep everyone in the family entertained.

The 1.8-mile loop trail known as the Purser-Hulsey Main Loop Trail traverses a gorgeous forest setting. You'll be hard pressed to find a more inviting landscape to explore.
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The trail is also known as the Enchanted Forest Trail.
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Narrow pathways create a very intimate space to enjoy a break from sidewalks, cement, and pavement that tend to stifle our sense of adventure.
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You won't find much wide open space on this trail, but you won't want it.
Because the Enchanted Forest is home to hundreds of painted rocks!
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And you're encouraged to find them and then relocate them to other spots within the forest.

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You never know when you'll encounter a painted rock, whether on the Broad Boardwalk, on the dirt footpath, or on the stone-covered path.
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But when you do, it's sure to bring a smile to your face.
Google Maps/Olena Scarboro
The Purser-Hulsey Main Loop (a.k.a. Enchanted Forest) trail is open year-round and ideal for any members in the family.
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The hike doesn't have any challenging sections and features only minor elevation gains and losses.
If the idea of finding painted rocks in the Enchanted Forest piques your interest...
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Maybe think about painting your own rocks before you go... so you can leave them behind for others to find!

Purser-Halsey Park is open from dawn to dusk, 365 days a year. Admission is free. Learn more on the official website for the park, here.

For another enchanted hike in North Carolina, check out the Fairy Trail at Bullington Gardens!

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