We all love Winston-Salem – the lively downtown, funky arts district and plenty of great restaurants and coffee shops. Sometimes, however, a little change of scenery is exactly what we need. Let’s be honest, we’ve all had those Saturdays where we think, I need to get out of town for the day.
One of the best parts about the Winston-Salem area is the mix of environments nearby. In less than an hour, you can go from walking around Reynolda Gardens to hiking in a state park or petting a farm animal.
Pilot Mountain State Park
Only about 45 minutes from Winston-Salem, Pilot Mountain is the perfect choice if you want to embrace nature without committing to an overnight or a full day of driving. We chose a seven-mile loop (eight miles after we walked around on the top), but there are shorter loops and a way to drive to the summit. The view at the top was beautiful, with a clear look at the Winston-Salem skyline.
Buffalo Creek Farm & Creamery
Another recent spot I stumbled upon was Buffalo Creek Farm and Creamery, a family owned goat farm in Germanton. The owners’ granddaughter greeted us and told us about the farm’s history, animals and what they sold.
Their goat milk ice cream was a highlight – it was lighter than cow’s milk ice cream but, somehow, just as creamy. I ordered mine with blueberries at the bottom – the perfect treat after a long hike.
Hanging Rock State Park
Similar to Pilot Mountain, Hanging Rock is a renowned hiking spot. The most famous loop, and the one I took is just a little more than a mile each way with unbelievable views over the famous “hanging rock.” There’s even an area to swim if the weather permits!
Reynolda Gardens and Wake Forest Campus
Why not swap the normal afternoon neighborhood walking route for a loop around Reynolda Garden and the Wake Forest campus?
Take a peak in the greenhouses in Reynolda Garden; we were lucky enough to see a wedding party taking pictures nearby! Then, the Wake Forest campus has a lush campus with accessible paths and easy loops.
Winston-Salem is wonderful, but it never hurts to go on a weekend getaway. Within an hour’s drive, there are different landscapes, activities and sweet treats that make you feel like you’re on a true vacation not too far from home.
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