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Best wildlife hikes in Randolph County
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Best wildlife hikes in Randolph County

Calling all nature lovers! These wildlife-rich hikes give you the chance to spot some of the forest's cutest inhabitants.

Here are some great hikes to explore in Randolph County.

Most popular hikes

1

Easy

Coolers Knob Mountain - Birkhead Mountain Trail

Randolph County, North Carolina · star 4.5 (19) · 17.7 km · Est. 4 hrs 8 min

2

Easy

Robbins Branch, Birkhead Mountain and Hannah's Creek Loop Trail

Randolph County, North Carolina · star 4.5 (20) · 10.8 km · Est. 2 hrs 32 min

3

Medium

Coolers Knob Mountain via Birkhead Mountain Trail

Randolph County, North Carolina · star 4.4 (16) · 3.8 km · Est. 57 min

4

Easy

Purgatory Mountain

Randolph County, North Carolina · star 4.8 (16) · 3.0 km · Est. 43 min

5

Easy

Uwharrie Trail from High Pine Church Road - South

Randolph County, North Carolina · star 5.0 (10) · 12.3 km · Est. 3 hrs 10 min

6

Easy

Thornburg Trail

Randolph County, North Carolina · star 4.5 (18) · 5.5 km · Est. 1 hrs 19 min

7

Easy

Robbins Branch via Robbins Branch Trail

Randolph County, North Carolina · star 4.6 (18) · 5.9 km · Est. 1 hrs 22 min

8

Easy

Purgatory Trail Out and Back

Randolph County, North Carolina · star 4.3 (8) · 948 m · Est. 13 min

9

Easy

Blue-Green Loop

Randolph County, North Carolina · star 4.6 (18) · 2.1 km · Est. 29 min

10

Easy

Middle Mountain Trail

Randolph County, North Carolina · star 4.5 (15) · 4.8 km · Est. 1 hrs 12 min

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Reviews for wildlife hikes in Randolph County

Kimbra Harber avatar

Coolers Knob Mountain - Birkhead Mountain Trail

ClimberRidgechaser13 路 reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Velda Rowe avatar

Robbins Branch, Birkhead Mountain and Hannah's Creek Loop Trail

CliffTundrarunner37 路 reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Jackson Kunze DDS avatar

Coolers Knob Mountain via Birkhead Mountain Trail

ClimberClimber47 路 reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Darrell Latham avatar

Purgatory Mountain

Darrell1968 路 reviewed 10 days ago

star star star star star

Nice little trail. It's very rocky in some portions, be careful.

Marion Brakus avatar

Uwharrie Trail from High Pine Church Road - South

HighlandHuntsman85 路 reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hikes in Randolph County

What is the climate like for hiking in North Carolina?

North Carolina's climate varies greatly from the coastal plains to the mountainous regions. Coastal and Piedmont areas experience hot summers and mild winters, while the mountains can be significantly cooler. However, extreme temperatures can make summer hiking challenging and winter hiking risky due to icy trails and potential snowfall.
Spring and fall offer the most comfortable hiking conditions, with moderate temperatures and lower humidity. Fall is particularly attractive as the forests explode with autumn colors.
The best time to hike in North Carolina generally spans from March to May and September to November. Regardless of the season, check weather forecasts before setting out, and visit the North Carolina State Parks website (https://www.ncparks.gov/) for trail conditions and closures.

Do I need a permit to hike in North Carolina?

Most hiking trails in North Carolina are free and open to the public without a permit. Certain areas, like state parks or wildlife refuges, might require entrance fees or permits. Contact North Carolina State Parks (https://www.ncparks.gov/) for specific information.

Is wild camping allowed in North Carolina?

Wild camping in North Carolina is allowed in many national forest areas, though restrictions apply, such as maintaining distance from water sources. Always follow "Leave No Trace" principles. For specifics, consult the U.S. Forest Service's website for the region (https://www.fs.usda.gov/main/nfsnc/home).

Are there mountain rescue services in North Carolina?

In case of emergencies while hiking in North Carolina, dial 911. Local law enforcement coordinates with voluntary organizations for Search and Rescue operations. For safety tips and emergency information, consult the North Carolina State Parks website (https://www.ncparks.gov/).

Are there dangerous plants in North Carolina?

North Carolina's flora is richly diverse, from coastal pines to mountain rhododendrons. While hiking, you might encounter blooming dogwoods in spring or fiery maples in fall. For a deeper understanding of the region's flora, visit the North Carolina Botanical Garden's website (https://ncbg.unc.edu/).

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in North Carolina?

In North Carolina, hikers may encounter wildlife ranging from deer and squirrels to black bears, especially in the mountains. Insects like ticks and mosquitoes are common in warmer months. Always respect wildlife and consider insect repellent. For more information, consult the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission https://a-z-animals.com/animals/location/north-america/united-states/north-carolina/

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