If you live in Charlotte and are looking for a quick and easy hike, then we have the perfect trails for you! There is nothing better than heading out into the woods on a sunny day to breathe in the fresh air, hear the birds chirping, and view beautiful scenery while walking with friends. Some of the best hikes in Charlotte are perfect for doing exactly that!

If you aren't a seasoned hiker, don't worry; these trails are all less than three miles long and are perfect for beginners. These trails will provide some amazing sights without pushing your abilities too far! If you're looking for some of the greatest kid-friendly hikes in North Carolina, look no further than these wonderful hikes around Charlotte.

1. Alder Trail - Lake Norman State Park (0.9 miles)

Alder Trail at Lake Norman State Park is a beginner trail that loops around part of Lake Norman. Alder Trail is an easy, flat hike that is perfect for those just starting out or those with kids tagging along.

2. Cattail Trail - Latta Nature Preserve (1 mile)

Cattail Trail is located in Latta Nature Preserve in Huntersville, NC. Cattail Trail takes you around the shoreline of Mountain Island Lake and has many benches and resting spots along the way so hikers can stop and take in the peaceful scenery every once in awhile.

3. Fern Nature Trail - Crowders Mountain State Park (1.3 miles)

The Fern Nature Trail in Crowders Mountain State Park joins with a portion of the Turnback Trail to create an easy 1.3-mile hike. Hikers on this trail will see some lovely scenery, including various plants and wildlife. If you start with Fern Nature Trail and feel like you can add a bit of extra mileage, consider following the Pinnacle Trail, which is a more difficult 3.8 mile hike that leads up to Pinnacle Peak and offers some of the most stunning views of the area.

4. Battlefield Trail - Kings Mountain National Military Park (1.6 miles)

Battlefield Trail is located within Kings Mountain National Military Park near Blacksburg, SC. This trail is completely paved and a great walking path for history buffs and those who prefer a leisurely stroll. As you walk this trail, you will come across numerous monuments to the historic Battle of Kings Mountain, which took place here during the Revolutionary War. Battlefield Trail is a wonderful place for families and kids, and will definitely provide educational information as you hike.

5. Nanny's Mountain Trail - York, SC (1.8 miles)

Nanny's Mountain Trail is a backwoods trail located in York, South Carolina. This trail is 1.8 miles and will give beginner hikers a bit more time to experience the beautiful outdoors. About 0.3 miles into the hike, you will come to a lookout and picnic pavilion, so be sure to pack a lunch and stop here for a bite along the way.

6. Charlotte Trails - McDowell Nature Preserve (2.3 miles)

Charlotte Trails is located in McDowell Park and Nature Preserve. At 2.3 miles, this trail is perfect for those who are new to hiking, but want to take on a little extra distance. Charlotte Trails offers views of beautiful streams, natural waterfalls, and tons of lush vegetation. If you do decide to go out longer, there are other trails you can tack onto your hike to extend your adventure. After your hike, wander into the nature preserve and learn about some of the wildlife you may have seen on the trail!

7. Congaree Boardwalk Trail - Congaree State Park (2.4 miles)

The Congaree Boardwalk Loop is the perfect hike for those who want a woodland adventure without leaving the comfort of a defined trail. The Congaree Boardwalk Trail is known for its beautiful Cypress and Pine Trees, which create a forest canopy that shades and cools hikers. At only 2.4 miles, this hike is a great one for those who want to check out a new State Park that you may not have explored before!

8. Reedy Creek Nature Preserve Trail - Reedy Creek Nature Preserve (3.1 miles)

Although this trail is just over 3 miles, we felt it was short enough to include (after all, the extra 0.1 miles is only 528 feet). Reedy Creek Nature Preserve Trail features beautiful wildflowers along the trail and views of small ponds and rivers as you hike. This trail and is perfect for the active beginner who wants to push their distance.

Where is your favorite place to hike? Which scenic hikes in Charlotte would you call the best hikes in Charlotte? Let us know in the comments!