Embrace Nature: Top Hiking Trails You Can Enjoy Close to Your Pleasant Ridge Home
Greensboro, North Carolina is a vibrant city known not just for its culture and dining but for its rolling hills, woodlands, and abundance of scenic walking and hiking trails. One of the major benefits of living at Plantation at Pleasant Ridge is convenient access to some of the area’s most spectacular outdoor escapes. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful morning walk, a challenging weekend trek, or a place to bring your furry companion, you’ll find a trail that lives up to your expectations—all less than a 30-minute drive from your apartment home.
Why Outdoor Living Matters in Greensboro
Spending time outdoors offers countless benefits, including improved physical and mental health, decreased stress, and a deeper sense of connection with the community. For residents of Plantation at Pleasant Ridge, the blend of luxury living and proximity to beautiful green spaces creates an unrivaled lifestyle. Here’s a curated guide to the premier hiking trails near Pleasant Ridge that you’ll want to add to your weekend plans.
Top Hiking and Nature Trails Around Plantation at Pleasant Ridge
1. Piedmont Environmental Center Trails
Just a short drive from your home, the Piedmont Environmental Center offers nearly 11 miles of well-marked trails. Winding through mature forests, wetlands, and around the edge of High Point City Lake, these trails are loved for their peaceful setting and wildlife sightings. Choose the Bill Faver Lakeshore Trail for beautiful water views or explore the network for a longer, varied excursion.
- Distance from Plantation at Pleasant Ridge: ~20 minutes
- Ideal For: Leisure hikers, families, bird watchers
- Best Feature: Lakeside views and diverse flora and fauna
2. Guilford Courthouse National Military Park
Steeped in history, this park doesn’t just offer insight into important Revolutionary War events; it’s also a favorite for nature lovers. The nearly 2.25-mile historic trail is paved, making it accessible for all skill levels. Winding through wooded terrain with interpretive signs and monument stops, the path is popular with joggers, families, cyclists, and history enthusiasts alike.
- Distance: ~15 minutes
- Ideal For: History buffs, runners, families
- Best Feature: Combination of nature and national history
3. Bur-Mil Park
A regional favorite, Bur-Mil Park boasts 250 acres featuring nature trails, lakeside paths, and connector trails to the larger Atlantic & Yadkin Greenway. Some of the highlights include the Lake Brandt Greenway and Owl’s Roost Trail, a moderate loop with rolling hills and lake vistas. The park also offers fishing piers, picnic areas, and a dog park—perfect for pet lovers who want to combine exercise with a pet-friendly outing.
- Distance: ~18 minutes
- Ideal For: Hikers with dogs, cyclists, bird-watchers
- Best Feature: Versatile trails for all abilities and dog-friendly spaces
4. Atlantic & Yadkin Greenway
This scenic, multi-use greenway runs for over 7 miles along an old railway corridor from Greensboro’s northern edge into the heart of the city. The smoothly paved surface makes it accessible for strollers and bikes, as well as walking or running. The greenway connects to various lakes, parks, and nature preserves—including spots for rest, fishing, and even waterfront picnics.
- Distance: ~15-25 minutes (multiple access points)
- Ideal For: Cyclists, long-distance runners, families
- Best Feature: Connectivity to several regional green spaces and parks
5. Hagan-Stone Park
For those looking for a bit more adventure, head to Hagan-Stone Park in southeast Greensboro. With over 8 miles of nature trails crossin
- Distance: ~25 minutes
- Ideal For: Trail runners, hikers, nature enthusiasts
- Best Feature: Extensive trail network and tranquil, less-crowded scenery
6. Bicentennial Greenway
The Bicentennial Greenway spans more than 14 miles through neighborhoods, woodlands, and creekside areas between Greensboro and High Point. This paved, multi-use trail is especially beautiful during spring and autumn, offering glimpses of local wildlife and native wildflowers. Ample parking, rest stops, and trailheads make it easy to explore a new segment every weekend.
- Distance: ~10-20 minutes to nearest trailheads
- Ideal For: Leisure walkers, cyclists, weekend explorers
- Best Feature: Lengthy, interconnected route suitable for all fitness levels
Making the Most of Greensboro’s Trails
Tips for Trail Use:
- Some trails allow leashed dogs, making a morning hike perfect for you and your pet companion.
- Many parks feature picnic spots and playgrounds.
- Area greenways are bike-friendly and accessible, accommodating a wide range of abilities.
- Be sure to bring water, sunscreen, and observe all posted signs for safety and conservation.
Living at Plantation at Pleasant Ridge means you’re never far from a new adventure. With resort-style amenities such as a zero-entry pool, clubhouse with hot coffee, modern fitness center, and a leash-free pet park, your days can be as active or as relaxed as you want. After a morning on the trails, returning to your well-appointed apartment home—featuring gourmet kitchens, spacious balconies, and private patios—feels all the more rewarding.
Experience the Perfect Balance of Outdoor Recreation and Luxury Living
Plantation at Pleasant Ridge isn’t just a place to live—it’s a lifestyle. With a range of one, two, and three-bedroom modern apartment homes, you’ll enjoy cutting-edge amenities, lush landscaped grounds, and easy access to some of Greensboro’s best walking and hiking trails. If you desire pet-friendly living, resort-style features, and proximity to everything that makes North Carolina special, don’t miss your opportunity to join this vibrant community. Schedule your tour today and take your next step toward an active, enriching lifestyle at Plantation at Pleasant Ridge.
