The best city hikes and walks in New Hanover County

The Smith Creek Park Trail offers a delightful blend of paved and natural paths, circling a picturesque 35-acre spring-fed lake often framed by tall pines. You'll find yourself immersed in a serene natural environment, with opportunities to spot waterbirds and native plants, and even alligators. This easy 1.3-mile (2.1 km) loop has a minimal 27 feet (8 metres) of elevation gain, making it a perfect, quick hike that takes around 32 minutes.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with ample parking available at Smith Creek Park. While generally quiet, the park can become busy on weekends, so an early start is recommended for a more peaceful experience. Dogs are permitted on the trail, and the paved sections are ADA compliant, ensuring accessibility for nearly everyone.

Beyond the trail, Smith Creek Park is a comprehensive recreational destination, featuring a playground, picnic shelters, and a canoe/kayak launch on the stocked lake. This makes it an excellent choice for families or anyone looking to combine a gentle hike with other outdoor activities in Wilmington, North Carolina.

The Ogden Park Loop offers a delightful, easy escape into nature, perfect for when you need a quick refresh. This 1.1-mile (1.8 km) hiking trail winds through lush, well-maintained paths, providing a serene experience with virtually no elevation gain, just 9 feet (3 metres) over its 26-minute duration. You'll find yourself surrounded by greenery, with wooded sections and scenic ponds creating a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for a relaxed walk or a gentle jog.

Planning your visit to this Wilmington, North Carolina gem is straightforward. The park provides ample parking right at the trailhead, along with convenient amenities like restrooms, picnic shelters, and even an off-leash dog park, making it a great spot for families and pet owners. Given its short length and easy difficulty, you can comfortably tackle this loop at any time of day, though a morning or late afternoon visit might offer the most tranquil setting.

This accessible loop is a highlight of Ogden Park, a 165.3-acre green space known for its versatility. Beyond the main loop, the park features an accessible paved walking trail and is a haven for local wildlife, including various birds, squirrels, and rabbits. It's a fantastic option for beginner hikers or anyone looking for a low-impact outdoor activity in a beautiful, well-equipped community park.

Enjoy an easy 0.8-mile paved loop around Carolina Beach Lake, offering scenic views and wildlife spotting just steps from the ocean.

The Wrightsville Beach trail, known locally as "The Loop," offers an easy 4.5-mile (7.2 km) paved route that's perfect for a relaxed coastal walk. With a minimal 3 feet (1 metres) of elevation gain, you'll enjoy continuous scenic views along the Intracoastal Waterway, Banks Channel, and salt marshes. This route provides a pleasant blend of urban charm and natural beauty, passing through the town center, local gardens, and the marina, making it one of the best walking routes in Wrightsville Beach for a casual outing. Expect a smooth, flat surface suitable for all ages and even your furry friends. The estimated time to complete the loop is around 1 hour and 47 minutes, offering a rewarding experience without a significant time commitment.

This popular path is accessible year-round thanks to Wrightsville Beach's mild climate, so you can plan your visit whenever suits you best. Key amenities are conveniently located along the route, especially at Wrightsville Beach Park, where you'll find restrooms, water fountains, and even pet-friendly facilities. Parking is generally available in the area, though it can get busy during peak seasons, so an early start is always a good idea. No permits or fees are required for this public access trail, making it a hassle-free option for a spontaneous stroll.

Beyond its scenic appeal, the Wrightsville Beach trail is a beloved community fixture, regularly used by locals and visitors alike for exercise and recreation. Its unique urban-coastal blend and accessibility set it apart, offering a different experience than typical wilderness hikes. For those interested in the area's heritage, a self-guided "Loop Through History" tour is occasionally available, featuring signs that share the island's past. This trail is an excellent choice for families and dog-friendly hiking, providing a welcoming environment for everyone to enjoy the natural features and landmarks of Wrightsville Beach.