McDowell Nature Preserve

Want some outdoor time in the Charlotte area? This guide has the best hiking trails within 90 minutes of Charlotte, NC. Check out what the Piedmont region of North + South Carolina can offer. (And yes, there ARE actual hikes, with elevation!!⛰) I've hiked in or on every single one of these parks/forests/trails, so they have all been ✅APPROVED✅ by me. Trails range from just under 2 miles to 5+ miles. Some hikes offer high elevation exchanges, others are more level. All hikes offer LOTS of outdoor time!! Each trail includes: -Distance from CLT: drive-time to trailhead -Trail Length: miles per hike -Elevation gain: how many feet you’ll climb -Route type: loop or out & back ✨Trail magic✨ may include: -mountain vistas -waterfalls -skyline views of CLT -lake, river, and stream views -granite domes -climbing opportunities -historical ruins -seasonal displays of rare flowers Each location has AllTrails links to trails. Download the FREE app at: www.alltrails.com ‼️HOT TIP: Each hike is usually only one of many hikes available in the park or recreation area. Be sure to check out additional trails on the All Trails app. This guide is ongoing and will be updated as I conquer more trails in the Charlotte, NC area. So come back for future hikes! Thanks for your support and Hike On! 🥾