Hiking Trails Near Fayetteville

Fayetteville offers 12+ scenic hiking trails from paved riverside paths to wooded nature walks—perfect for military families seeking outdoor exercise and natural beauty.

Top Hiking Trails

Cape Fear River Trail

Distance: 7+ miles paved Difficulty: Easy Width: 10 feet (wide, accessible)

Trail features:

• Paved entire length
• Follows Cape Fear River
• Elevation gain: 603 feet (highest in area)
• Scenic river views
• Multiple access points
• Bike-friendly
• Stroller accessible

Popular for: Walking, jogging, biking, inline skating

Clark Park Boardwalk Trail

Distance: 700-foot boardwalk Difficulty: Easy Terrain: Boardwalk through wetlands

Unique features:

• Elevated boardwalk
• Marsh and wetland views
• Wildlife viewing
• Educational experience
• Accessible
• Short, perfect for families

Lake Rim Park Trail

Distance: Multiple trail options Features: Scenic boardwalk to Bones Creek edge

Trail amenities:

• Loops through park
• Connects facilities
• Lake views
• Nature observation

Longleaf Pine, Fox Squirrel, and Turkey Oak Loop

Elevation gain: 367 feet Difficulty: Moderate Terrain: Natural surface

What to expect:

• Forest hiking
• Native NC ecology
• Longleaf pine habitat
• Wildlife observation

Trail Difficulty Levels

Easy trails:

• Paved or well-maintained
• Minimal elevation
• Accessible
• Family-friendly
• Good for beginners

Moderate trails:

• Some elevation change
• Natural surface
• May have roots/rocks
• Better for experienced hikers

What to Bring

Essential gear:

• Water (at least 16-20 oz per person)
• Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots
• Hat and sunscreen
• Bug spray (spring through fall)
• Phone (for emergencies, maps)
• Small first aid kit

Optional:

• Hiking poles
• Snacks
• Camera
• Binoculars for bird-watching

Best Times to Hike

Ideal seasons:

• Fall (September-November): Comfortable temps, beautiful colors
• Spring (March-May): Blooming, mild weather (high pollen)
• Winter (December-February): Mild, less crowded
• Summer (June-August): Early morning only (heat/humidity)

Time of day:

• Morning (cooler, wildlife active)
• Late afternoon (avoid midday heat)
• Avoid hiking after dark (trails not lit)

Trail Safety

Hiking safely:

• Tell someone your plans
• Stay on marked trails
• Watch for roots and rocks
• Bring enough water
• Check weather before going
• Wear appropriate footwear
• Use bug spray
• Be aware of surroundings

Wildlife:

• Snakes possible (warm months)
• Give wildlife space
• Don't feed animals
• Stay on trail

Finding Trails

Resources:

• AllTrails app/website
• Fayetteville Parks & Recreation
• TrailLink website
• Google Maps trail reviews

Trail maps: Download before hiking

Fayetteville hiking trails offer natural escapes from paved riverside walks to wooded paths—providing military families with free outdoor exercise and scenic North Carolina beauty.