A bird sitting on a nest of eggs.

Hiking Near Wingate, North Carolina

Shorter Routes icon

Shorter Routes

These hikes keep it under 5 miles and climb less than 1,500 feet, making them ideal for quicker outings or lower-key days. Perfect for a morning stretch, a casual afternoon, or getting outside without committing to a big push. Don’t let the stats fool you — many still pack in great views and rewarding moments.

Main Loop Trail

Hike Route

Main Loop Trail

Fall Colors
moderate
4.91 mi
+264 ft
McAlpine Creek Loop

Hike Route

McAlpine Creek Loop

Birding
easy
2.53 mi
+0 ft
Garden of the Waxhaws Trail

Hike Route

Garden of the Waxhaws Trail

Lake
easy
0.95 mi
+15 ft
Crawford Nature Trail

Hike Route

Crawford Nature Trail

easy
1.19 mi
+67 ft
Reedy Creek - Big Oak, Umbrella, and Dragonfly Loop

Hike Route

Reedy Creek - Big Oak, Umbrella, and Dragonfly Loop

Birding
moderate
1.06 mi
+65 ft
Buffalo Creek Preserve Trail

Hike Route

Buffalo Creek Preserve Trail

Birding
moderate
2.12 mi
+72 ft