Autumn is upon us and anytime during the next few months is an excellent time to get outside and hike through any of Mecklenburg County's nature preserves and greenways to see the fall foliage. With 35 miles of nature preserve trails and 22 miles of greenways to choose from, there's a trail and a view for everyone!  Here are our top three suggested hikes.

Hill Trail, Split Rock Trail and Cove Trail at Latta Plantation Nature Preserve – Pick up a trail map at the nature center and then head north along Hill Trail. Turn west on Split Rock Trail and enjoy the golden hues of goldenrod, Indian grass, and broomsedge as you traverse the southwestern edge of the Piedmont Prairie Restoration site. Then travel north onto Cove Trail and take in the tranquil vistas across Mountain Island Lake. Return via Hill Trail. Round trip 4 miles, over moderate to easy terrain.

Reedy Creek Nature Preserve and the Robinson Rock House Ruins - Pick up the Umbrella Tree Trail from the nature center and travel to the intersection of the South Fork Trail. Turn northeast along the South Fork Trail and pass through mixed hardwoods and down the hill into the preserve's beautiful bottomland forest. Cross the creek, then turn right on the Sierra Loop Trail. Cross the bridge and then head southeast along the Robinson Rock House Trail to the remains of one of Mecklenburg County's oldest homesites. Retrace your route to the nature center. Round trip 1.5 miles, over easy to moderately strenuous terrain.

Mallard Creek and Clark's Creek Greenway - Park at Mallard Creek Elementary School and take the access trail down to one of Mecklenburg County's most beautiful greenways. Cross the first bridge and turn left at the intersection and continue towards Mallard Creek Road, along miles of protected watershed and natural areas. Look for great blue herons, migrating birds, and fall wildflowers. Turn around at any point.  Easy, paved surface.

If you need a map of any of these nature preserves or greenways, visit our Trail Maps page.