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Caldwell County is widely known for the stunning natural beauty and well designed walking trails in western NC. To the NC mountain communities, the trails, greenways and parks offer the opportunity to experience nature at its best while staying fit. Whether you thrive on cardio or are a strolling enthusiast, the county offers numerous hiking trails in western NC to challenge hikers and walkers of all skill levels. The combination of the waterfalls at the Wilson Creek and its rugged terrain offers breathtaking scenery with over 20 hiking trails in the park that give you even more diversity in the county.

CALDWELL COUNTY HIKING TRAILS 

If you are looking for a challenging hiking experience, Wilson Creek’s rugged terrain is where you’ll find the serious hikers. In case you are new to the hiking trails in western NC, the trailheads contain signs with blazes on the trees meant to guide your adventure. You may consider using the map availed at the Wilson Creek Visitors Center. Some of the most frequented hiking trails at Wilson Creek include:

• Harper Creek Falls: the fall remains one of the most popular owing to the double waterfalls that are about 40 feet. It sits about 1.9 miles from the Wilson Creek visitor center and takes an hour to complete the trail blazed in orange.
• Waterfall on Thorpe’s Creek: the trailhead begins at Mortimer campground and runs 18 miles along Thorpe’s creek. The hiking trail is easy to cruise through and hence ideal for beginners.
• Hunt Fish Falls: the 0.7-mile trail ends to a 20-foot waterfall that is steep and hence perfect for the advanced hikers. At the hunt-fish falls, the trail traverses with Lost Cove Trail enabling hikers to access longer trails for longer hikes.
• Falls on Gragg Prong: when it comes to natural scenes, the path gives a magnificent view of the three falls that comes with varying hiking complexities. Marked with a white blaze, it part of the Mountain-to-Sea trail that accommodates beginners and advanced hikers.

CALDWELL COUNTY WALKING TRAILS 

There are numerous hiking trails where gentler walkers are likely to spend the bulk of their time in public parks and walking trails in close proximity to downtown. With more than 20 walking trails, one cannot miss the opportunity of walking on the interconnected walking trails in western NC  such as the Baton Ruritan Park, Buffalo Community Park, Davenport School Park, Collettsville Park, Lenoir Aquatic Trails, Lenoir Mall, Redwood Park, and West Lenoir School Track among others.

CALDWELL COUNTY GREENWAYS 

When it comes to public parks and greenways, the 0.5-mile 8th Street Greenway in Lenoir stands tall on the North Loop Road. The path is paved, flat, and wide and offers a peaceful experience for the visitors. Other favorite greenways include Catawba Creeks Greenway, Atlantic & Yadkin, Baker’s Creek, Beaver Creek, Brevard Bike, Black Creek, Briar Creek and Endor Iron Furnace greenways among others.

MORE FUN THINGS TO DO

While the county prides in being one of the most frequented for hiking, one cannot understate the myriad of events and activities available in Lenoir. Regardless of your interest, why not consider attending the regular musical talent on the lawn or the Friday motor speedway. Baseball games, kite flying, bike rides, exploring museums or clogging at the Sims Country Barbecue in shoals are just a few more fun things to do in Lenoir. The county Farmer’s Markets offers the ultimate farm to table shopping experience while J.E Broyhill Civic Center is known for the wide selection of entertainment that ranges from live concerts, drama, comedies, and music.

LIFE AT THE COVES MOUNTAIN RIVER CLUB

Our gated community in the mountains has the rare combination of stellar long range views and riverfront property along the Johns River. Elevations range from 1,040 to 1,700 feet. Residents frequently explore the 39 miles of hiking and walking trails within our gates. Additional amenities include four cascading waterfalls, four community parks, two community gardens, a mountaintop lodge and full service equestrian center. Of all the NC mountain communities, you won’t find anywhere like it. HOA fees are low at less than $1000 per year. Retirees often choose The Coves Mountain River Club because of the mild Lenoir weather found in the foothills NC.

We invite you to stop by and explore our trails as well as the trails and greenways in Lenoir.  If you’re exploring the area for the first time, ask for our 84 page Complimentary Magazine packed with helpful relocation information.