The deeply historic town of Hillsborough, North Carolina features many scenic walking trails. Natural and hard surface paths crisscross through the town, passing through wetlands, woodlands, and neighborhoods. We have walked all of the trails on the following list. Exploring trails in Hillsborough is a great way to spend the day. If you find yourself in the area, which one will you try?
Hillsborough Riverwalk
You’ll love stretching your legs on the just under 2-mile greenway. The paved trail stretches from Gold Park in West Hillsborough to adjacent trails in Eastern Hillsborough. Along the way, you’ll pass over boardwalks and through mixed hardwoods as you meander along the banks of the Eno River. Apply bug spray before departing!
Location: Main Entrance is by the Eno River Parking Deck at the end of Nash and Kollock Street, adjacent to the Gateway Center.Hillsborough, NC 27278 Hours: 8 a.m. until a half hour after sunset.
Poets Walk at Ayr Mount
.In 1815, William Kirkland built his historic home in honor of his birthplace, Ayr, Scotland. Take a guided tour or stick to the 1 mile moderately trafficked loop trail. Poets Walk is a peaceful walk past gardens, the Scottish homestead, and a hardwoods forest. You’ll meander past a serene pond and past the old trading route before returning to the parking lot.
Location: 376 Saint Marys Road, Hillsborough, NC 27278 Hours: Vary
Occoneechee Speedway
What a treat to walk along an extinct speedway! The original track was a half-mile horse track which was later expanded and used by NASCAR. In fact, the 1-mile Occoneechee/Orange Speedway was in use from 1948-68 and attracted thousands of spectators. Today the 44-acre site is enjoyed by walkers and joggers. Note: The site was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in May 2002.
Location: 320 Elizabeth Brady Rd., Hillsborough, NC 27278 Hours: 7:00AM – 7:00PM
Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area
The well-loved, beautiful State Area covers 221 acres. Visit and you’ll have a chance to explore the trails of Occoneechee Mountain, the highest point in the county. Its three miles of challenging trails also take you through riverside forests before reaching a summit overlook, fishing ponds, an old quarry, and the Eno River. At the right time of year, you’ll also be treated to views of mountain laurel and rhododendron. Overall, the park boasts four trails with distances of .10 miles to 2.20 miles. The Mountain Loop is certainly the longest and most challenging
Location: 625 Virginia Cates Road, Hillsborough, NC 27278 Hours: Vary
Blackwood Farm Park
Blackwood Farm Park is my favorite hiking location in the area. The park features 152 acres of land with a historic farmhouse, barn, smokehouse, picnic shelter and area, restroom, pond, and of course, 4 miles of hiking trails. I think what I love best about the park is that it offers such a varied, natural landscape. One moment you are gazing at a farmhouse or pond, and the next, you are hiking through meadows or a forest. Tip: By now, you’re probably wondering about the name Occoneechee. The “Occoneechee” were Native Americans who lived in the area in the 17th century. In 1676, the tribe was attacked by militias and decimated. Above is an Occoneechee tribe burial ground found within the Blackwood Farm Park.
Location: 4215 NC 86 South | Hillsborough, NC 27278 Hours: Vary (weekends)
Considerations
Prepare for your walk. Review the safety advice of the managing land agency before you start. Stick to the trails and do not disturb wildlife. Trails may have poison ivy nearby, be buggy, and can be close to vegetation with harmful ticks. Bring bug spray and sunscreen, and keep all skin areas covered. Check for closures, conditions, hours of operation, and other information, before you start out.
References
Classical American Homes: Poet’s Walk
North Carolina State Parks: Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area
Orange County NC: Blackwood Farm Park
Visit Hillsborough NC: Home
https://obsn.org/
For information on the Occoneeche tribe that remains here today.
Thanks for this info! Great site!