Are you struggling to figure out where to start when it comes to getting out and exploring Fayetteville? Today I’m here to help get your adventures started with this guide for 6 easy hikes in Fayetteville that are all kid and dog friendly. I’ve also linked my in-depth guides for each which contain all the information you need to plan your adventures. If you’re new to living here, these are great options to get you started exploring the local area. I hope it helps and if you have any questions, just let me know!
5 Easy Hikes In Fayetteville – Kid And Dog Friendly Outings
For even more adventures
Before we get started, if you want to make the most of your time living in Fayetteville check out my Ultimate Fort Bragg Bucket List.
It’s a jam packed adventure guide that will take the stress out of filling your weekends and help you experience North Carolina to the fullest.
Cape Fear River Trail
The Cape Fear River Trail is probably the most popular trail in Fayetteville, so it’s kind of a must-do.
It’s a long, easy trail that is perfect for an easy hike, an outdoor dog walk, trail run or bicycle ride. The trail is paved the whole way, so it’s a good option if you’ll have a stroller.
There are two starting points to choose from with different highlights at each end. One end has a covered wooden bridge and waterfall, while the other has wooden bridges that go through a wetland.
For more information: Here is my full guide for the Cape Fear River Trail.
Cape Fear River Trail
Clark Park
Clark Park is a really cool place to go for some easy hikes right here in Fayetteville.
There’s a few trails to choose from, and you can do them all in one visit easily. All of the trails are beginner friendly and well marked.
It’s not only a good spot for some easy nature walks, there’s also a waterfall, river views, dinosaur statues, interactive signs for kids, and a large playground and picnic area. I even saw a cool fairy garden on one of the trails while I was there.
For more information: Here is my full guide for visiting Clark Park.
Fairy garden at Clark Park
Carvers Creek Long Valley Road Access
There are two different sections to Carvers Creek State Park and both are listed here.
The Long Valley Road Access is a great place to go for an easy hike because the trail is flat, wide, and very well marked. It’s a nice spot to get out into nature without needing to drive too far.
This section also has a historic house, lake, and covered seating area if you want to have a picnic lunch.
For more information: Here’s my full guide for hiking at Carvers Creek State Park in the Long Valley Road section.
Carvers Creek – Long Valley Road Access
Carvers Creek Sandhills Access
The Sandhills Access of Carvers Creek State Park has a little more going on in terms of hiking because there more trails. You can easily spend a couple of hours here so if you want to get your steps in on some easy trails, this is a great option.
It’s very quiet, peaceful, and a cool spot to spend some time in nature. The trails are linked so you can do all of them at once or simply go as far as you want then turn around and return to the entrance.
Don’t be surprised if you see some horses on the trail too.
For more information: Here is my detailed guide for hiking the Carvers Creek Sandhills Access section.
Carvers Creek – Sandhills Access
Lake Rim Park
If you have kids, Lake Rim Park is a great option for a day out. There’s a couple of playgrounds, fields, and a pool on site to keep them entertained as well as tables and chairs for chilling out.
The short hike is an easy loop around the park, all well signed and maintained. It doesn’t take long to finish and the highlight is a cool wetland area with a couple of wooden bridges.
Just down the road from the park is the lake itself which is also a cool spot to visit.
For more information: Here is my detailed guide for visiting Lake Rim Park in Fayetteville.
Lake Rim Park
Pauline Longest Trail
For an off the beaten path hike, check out the Pauline Longest Nature Trail.
This one has a waterfall, gorgeous river views, and a whole lot of nature vibes. The short, easy trail is simple to follow and can be point to point, or a loop.
To keep it simple, you can just walk to the waterfall and back. Or if you want a little more adventure, you can follow the rope section to stand at the bottom of it and follow the water back to where it meets the river. I like that it has a couple of options.
Parking for this one is the only hassle but I have detailed tips in my full guide.
More information: Here is my detailed hiking guide for the Pauline Longest Trail.
Waterfall on the Pauline Longest Trail
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