NC Trails - Great State Trails Coalition

SCNP: Trails Day - Birding on the Trails @ Flat Branch
2026-06-06 09:00 - 10:30 UTC
Celebrate National Trails Day with a birding hike on the trails of Flat Branch Nature Preserve. Nature preserves are critical habitat for wildlife including our feathered friends, and a great place for observing the natural world! Stroll with an educator along 1.5 miles of trails as we identify different species and appreciate the beauty of the preserve. Beginners welcome; binoculars provided or BYO.
Pre-registration required. This program takes place along the trails of Flat Branch Nature Preserve. We will be meeting at the pavilion on 11833 Tom Short Rd, Charlotte, NC 28277, where there are picnic tables, water fountains, and bathrooms. Expect to walk about a mile along Shagbark loop, an easy, flat natural surface trail with areas of boardwalk. This hike qualifies for the 100 Mile Hike Club.
This program is for Ages 16 and up and it is Free.

Stevens Creek Nature Preserve and Center

Location:

Stevens Creek Nature Preserve, 15700 Thompson Road, Mint Hill, NC 28227, United States

Meet the Faces of the Forest National Trails Day Self Guided Trail Walk
2026-06-06 08:00 - 20:00
Grab a friend or member of your family for a Self-Guided Trail walk and discover the “Faces of the Forest” a public art installation on our very own Pritchard Park Trail in Chapel Hill. A 1-mile trail, made up of both paved and natural surface, and part of Pritchard Park, a 34-acre park and open space adjacent to the Chapel Hill Public Library.
Installed on twelve trees scattered throughout Pritchard Park, “Faces of the Forest” is designed to be explored at your own pace. Walking the trails to see all of the faces typically takes around 30–45 minutes.

Download the Map and make your plans for National Trails Day in Chapel Hill.
The clay faces and masks were created by Chapel Hill-based ceramic artist Levi Yakubu, a fifth-generation Nigerian potter. The pieces were inspired by Yakubu’s Nigerian heritage and the storytelling traditions of West African ceramics.
As visitors walk the park trails, they’ll encounter unexpected art and get acquainted with some of the native trees that make up our local landscape.
Location
Pritchard Park is 34 acres of rolling woodland in the middle of Chapel Hill and the site of Chapel Hill Public Library.
Pritchard Park, Chapel Hill, NC

Jordan Lake Trail Day
2026-06-06 08:00 - 11:30
Join the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at at the Jordan Tailrace on June 6th from 8am-11:30 am for a morning of trail maintenance and litter removal!

Volunteers will help improve trails near the Jordan Dam. We will be picking up trash, cutting back grass, shrubs, and low-hanging branches, widening the trail, and blazing a new section of trail. Volunteers must be 15 or older to use simple hand tools, and participants under age 18 must be accompanied by a guardian. Please prepared for outdoor conditions by wearing long pants, close-toed shoes, and bringing water, sunscreen, and bug spray. WoodmenLife Chapter 390 will be providing lunch for volunteers beginning at 11:30.
RSVP here: https://forms.osi.apps.mil/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=unZN_HzxUEy5p48xY9J1glrjf1X_F2lNlkWVJ4b-ZXNUMzcyT1A2WUc1MEdXV1hZRE5aQTRBTTc3Ry4u&origin=lprLink&route=shorturl

Old Fort Trails and Trains Festival Weekend!
2026-06-05 12:00 - 2026-06-06 14:00
National Trails Day Weekend! – Gateway
Jun 05, 2026, 12:00 PM – 4:30 PM
Gateway Meadows Parking – Meetup, 1501 State Rd 1227, Old Fort, NC 28762, USA

National Trails Day Weekend! – Hickory Branch

Jun 06, 2026, 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Curtis Creek Campground, 3799 State Rd 1227, Old Fort, NC 28762

Old Fort Trails and Trains Festival Weekend! Come celebrate National Trails Day Weekend and see the Old Highway turned Greenway. Once the gateway road from North Carolina’s Piedmont region to the Mountains and City of Asheville. We will be working together in pruning, blowing leaves, cutting back kudzu, and cleaning drains out of this popular recreation trail! Bring your picnic for a scenic lunch on the trail! Wear long pants and sturdy closed toed shoes. Bring a backpack with water, snacks, any meds you might need, and extra layers for weather protection. We will provide safety equipment, tools, and project guidance.

Cheoah-Tusquitte Ranger District Trail Maintenance Workshop
2026-06-05 10:00 - 16:00
We will demonstrate basic trail maintenance methods including brushing, crosscut logout, digging drains, re-benching, and other treadwork. Please bring a lunch, two to four liters of water, and work gloves/eye protection if you have them. Helmets, gloves, and eye protection will be provided to all who need them. Recommended age is 12+. Space is limited to 22 volunteers due to Wilderness regulations.
Park in the Memorial Loop parking lot and meet at the covered pavilion at 10am.
Ryanstoyer@wildernessstewards.org

Stream Walk and Talk
2026-06-04 17:30 - 19:30
Explore the stream restoration with Laine Roberts and the Downtown Greenway on Thursday, June 4 from 5:30-7:00 pm along our Western Branch at Cairn’s Course (501 Guilford Ave) and learn about the life the stream supports, its importance to the environment, and simple ways you can help care for it.

There are no public restrooms at this site.

NC Trail Days
2026-06-04 09:00 - 2026-06-07 22:00
NC Trail Days!
Come hike, bike, paddle, and explore during the four-day North Carolina Trail Days Festival in Elkin and Jonesville—two vibrant trail towns nestled between Stone Mountain and Pilot Mountain State Parks and linked by the scenic Yadkin River.
This festival highlights local trails, Segment 6 of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail, and a full weekend of outdoor fun in the foothills of North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains. Bring your boots, bikes, and boats (kayaks welcome!) and connect with fellow trail lovers from near and far. Enjoy themed and self-guided hikes, river cleanups and Yadkin paddles, group rock climbing, a Thursday night kickoff, and a Friday evening block party. The weekend also includes free live music, and a vendor village packed with outdoor gear, demos, and an overland vehicle showcase.
Parking is free and available in the vicinity of Downtown Elkin. We recommend arriving early each day.

NC Trail Days 2026
2026-06-04 09:00 - 2026-06-07 13:00
NC Trail Days welcomes visitors and locals back for its 7th year celebrating local trails, Segment 6 of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail, and the recreation opportunities that abound in the foothills! Bring your boots, bikes, kayaks, canoes, overland rigs, dogs and kids because there’s something for everyone to connect with fellow trail lovers from near and far. From themed hikes and paddles on the Yadkin River, to vendors and live music everyday, our schedule is packed but allows you to take in the outdoor-inspired character of this area. Explore Elkin and Discover Jonesville, and then see why we celebrate the Great Trails State!

Tune In & Tune Up
2026-05-28 18:00 - 20:00
We’re celebrating Bike Month, and invite you to come hang out along the Downtown Greenway at Carin’s Course (501 Guilford Avenue). We’ll have Community Bike Shop and other bike mechanics provide simple bicycle tune-ups. Learn about the “ABC Quick Check” and some basic bike maintenance, while enjoying the company of other folks who like to ride.

SPCA on the Greenway
2026-05-27 17:30 - 19:00
Join us for a walk along the Greenway with the SPCA on Saturday, May 27, from 5:30-7:00 pm! The SPCA is a local animal rescue non-profit dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of abused, neglected, and injured animals. Individuals will have a dog that they can walk along the greenway to socialize and get their energy out in a positive way! The hike will consist of only about 1-2 miles and begin at the Freedom Cornerstone. Register Now at: https://tinyurl.com/DGspcawalks

Will You Bee Their Neighbor?
2026-05-26 17:30 - 19:00
Take your first steps into the world of beekeeping with the Downtown Greenway on Tuesday, May 26, from 5:30-7 pm at our Pollinator Garden in Woven Works Park. Learn about the life of bees, how hives work, and how you can keep a hive of your own. Register Now at: https://tinyurl.com/DGbee26

Spring in the Streams
2026-05-18 17:30 - 18:30
Explore the stream with Laine Roberts and the Downtown Greenway on Monday, May 18, from 5:30-6:30 pm at our Western Branch and learn about the life it supports, the importance to the environment, and simple ways you can help care for it. Register Now at: https://tinyurl.com/DGstreamclean

Wildlife on the Greenway
2026-05-13 17:30 - 18:30
Discover the animals that call the Downtown Greenway home on Wednesday, May 13, from 5:30-6:30 pm at Meeting Place. We’ll show you how they interact with each other and how they live in our community. Parking is located along Prescott Street. There are no public restrooms at this site.
Register Now at: https://tinyurl.com/DGwildlife

Speaker Series: East Coast Greenway
2026-05-07 17:30 - 19:00
Join us for the second date in the Downtown Greenway Speaker Series, this time with a focus on the East Coast Greenway. Learn about the vision, impact, and future of the 3,000-mile trail during a public talk by ECG Executive Director Dennis Markatos-Soriano. This free event is open to the public and will take place May 7 from 5:30-7 pm at the Greensboro History Museum. Come discover how regional trail networks connect communities and support healthier, more active lifestyles. You will also gain insight into how long-distance trail systems drive economic development, tourism, and environmental stewardship in the communities they serve. Learn how the East Coast Greenway is working to create a safe, accessible route for people of all ages and abilities to walk, bike, and explore.

Growing A Pollinator Garden
2026-05-04 17:30 - 18:30
Join us Monday, May 4, from 5:30-6:30 pm at Woven Works Park for our Growing A Pollinator Garden! Whether you have a backyard or a patio, you’ll discover how to plant a garden that attracts and supports our local pollinators. Register Now at: https://tinyurl.com/DGpollinatorgarden

Wheels on the Greenway
2026-05-02 09:00 - 13:00
Our 11th Annual Wheels on the Greenway event is back! This growing Greensboro tradition is a FREE community event that celebrates wheels of all kinds and encourages people of all ages to get out on the Downtown Greenway for a morning of fun! The main event will take place at our Innovation Cornerstone, Woven Works Park, located at the corner of Murrow Boulevard and Lindsay Street. Street parking is available at 401 Cumberland St. There are no public restrooms at this location!

Urban Foraging
2026-04-27 17:30 - 18:30
Discover the hidden flavors of the city! Join us on Monday, April 27, from 5:30 – 6:30 pm for an outdoor urban foraging class at the local public orchard, Meeting Place at the Public Orchard, where we’ll explore edible plants right off the greenway and learn sustainable foraging techniques by a local professor.
Register Now at: https://tinyurl.com/urbanforaging25

Pisgah Project Day
2026-04-25 08:00 - 16:00
Pisgah Project Day (PPD) is Pisgah’s largest volunteer day. Each spring, hundreds of community volunteers join forces with The Pisgah Conservancy, our event sponsors and partners, and the Forest Service to complete dozens of improvement projects throughout the Pisgah Ranger District.
Join us for this year’s event on Saturday, April 25th.
Volunteer registration is now open! Pre-registration on the event page is required for all volunteers.
Thank you to our Lead Sponsor, the Transylvania County Tourism Development Authority, and to all of our event sponsors and partners.
For full event details, registration, and to see all of our sponsors and partners, please visit:
https://pisgahconservancy.org/pisgah-project-day/

Take it to the Trails 101: Trail Safety
2026-04-20 16:00 - 17:00
Learn how to tie essential knots and build new outdoor skills that prepare you for anything.

Downtown Greenway Walking Tour
2026-04-18 09:00 - 12:00
Explore the Downtown Greenway with us! Join our guided walking tours on Saturday, April 18, from 9 am to 12 noon to experience the full 4-mile loop, public art, local history, and more. Tours begin and end at LoFi Park (500 N. Eugene Street). Drop-ins welcome, as space allows!
Pre-register now at http://tinyurl.com/DGWalkTours

Greenway Glow Party
2026-04-17 18:00 - 20:00
Light up the night with us at the Greenway Glow Party in Morehead Trailhead Park at “Over. Under. Pass” on Friday, April 17, from 6-8 pm! We will provide glow paint, glow sticks, music, and good vibes—let’s make the Downtown Greenway shine together! Register Now at: https://tinyurl.com/DGGlowparty

Geocaching 101
2026-04-15 17:30 - 18:30
Do you enjoy adventure and exploring outside? Come learn a new hobby that’s fun for all ages and a great way to get outdoors: Geocaching. We’ll teach you the basics of this “modern day treasure hunt” activity, and show you how to find caches locally – and around the world!
Register Now at: https://tinyurl.com/DGGeo2026

Spring Into Motion: Outdoor Fitness Classes
2026-04-07 18:00 - 2026-06-23 19:00
Spring into Motion – Every Tuesday from 6 -7 pm!
Join us for free outdoor fitness classes this spring on the Downtown Greenway for April: Freedom Cornerstone, May: Morhead Park Trailhead, and June: Carin’s Course, proudly presented in partnership with the YMCA of Greensboro.
For 9 weeks, we’re hosting a fun, all-levels fitness class at a different Downtown Greenway location. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to stay active with a community, there’s something for everyone!
All abilities are welcome. No registration required – Just drop in!

Bird ID Walk
2026-04-06 17:30 - 19:00
Curious about what is flying overhead? Join the Piedmont Bird Club for a leisurely walk through Morehead Park Trailhead on the Downtown Greenway to learn all about the basics of birding on Monday, April 6 from 5:30-7 pm.
Register online here: https://tinyurl.com/DGbirdwatch

Open Mic Night on the Greenway
2026-03-29 17:00 - 19:00
Downtown Greenway is hosting our first Open Mic night on Sunday, March 29 from 5-7 pm on Bragg St. in collaboration with Back Table. We opened spots for local artists and performers and are inviting you onto the Downtown Greenway to experience their passions. From live music to spoken word poetry, this program is not to miss! Register Now at: https://tinyurl.com/DGopenmic

SPCA on the Greenway
2026-03-28 09:00 - 11:00
Join us for a walk along the Greenway with the SPCA on Saturday, March 28, from 9-11 am! The SPCA is a local animal rescue non-profit dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of abused, neglected, and injured animals. Individuals will have a dog that they can walk along the greenway to socialize and get their energy out in a positive way! The hike will consist of only about 1-2 miles and begin at the Freedom Cornerstone. Register Now at: https://tinyurl.com/DGspcawalks

Welcome Home Birdie: Birdhouse Workshop
2026-03-15 14:00 - 16:00
Get creative with your hands! Join us and Forge Greensboro to build your very own birdhouse Sunday, March 15 from 2-4 pm at Morehead Park Trailhead. A fun, hands-on way to learn new skills and give our feathered friends a place to call home! Register Now at: https://tinyurl.com/DGBirdie

Walking Tour
2026-03-14 09:00 - 12:00
Explore the Downtown Greenway with us! Join our guided walking tours on Saturday, March 14, from 9 am to 12 noon to experience the full 4-mile loop, public art, local history, and more. Tours begin and end at LoFi Park (500 N. Eugene Street). Pre-register now at http://tinyurl.com/DGWalkTours
Drop-ins welcome, as space allows!

Calligraphy 101
2026-02-28 14:00 - 16:00
Take time for yourself through the art of calligraphy on Saturday, February 28 from 2-4 pm at Meeting Place! In this beautiful handwriting class, you will learn the basics of the lowercase Italic alphabet in pencil—the skeleton of each letterform—from calligrapher Pat Levitin. All supplies will be provided.
Pat’s calligraphic work includes resolutions, poems, and certificates for local universities and private clients. Her work has been exhibited throughout North Carolina and at international conferences.

Greenway History Series: Honoring the Black Patriots of the Battle at Guilford Courthouse
2026-02-21 14:00 - 15:00
Celebrate Black History Month with an engaging, family-friendly exploration of the contributions of Black Patriots during the pivotal Battle of Guilford Courthouse. Led by knowledgeable staff from the National Park Service, this program brings history to life through interactive activities and storytelling suitable for all ages. Discover the bravery, resilience, and critical role of these soldiers in shaping the American Revolution, right here in our community. Come ready to ask questions, participate, and connect with history in a meaningful way!
