The Tar Heel State has no shortage of amazing hiking trails that offer beautiful scenery and picturesque views. And then there are some that offer much more than just a pretty walk; places that are full of history and a story to tell. We've highlighted 10 historic hikes in North Carolina along trails that lead to reminders of bygone times.

1. Reed Gold Mine, Locust

North Carolina was the home of America’s very first gold rush and you can still find evidence of it today on the Reed Gold Mine nature trail. The whole trail is an easy hike, if you even want to call it a hike — it’s not even half a mile long — but it’s family-friendly and a great way to get outside while exploring the piece of North Carolina history. Head to the AllTrails website

for trail information.

2. Guildford Courthouse National Military Park, Greensboro

Hike the site of a Revolutionary War battle at Guildford Courthouse National Military Park. The easy 1.7 mile loop is great for hiking or running and is dotted with historical markers and monuments throughout. There’s even a visitor’s center to find out more info on the battle. Head to the AllTrails website for trail information.

3. Wright Brothers Walkway, Kill Devil Hills

Walk the path of the famous Wright Brothers' first flight patterns at the Wright Brothers Walkway, a 2.7 mile loop that leads to the stone memorial dedicated to the famous brothers who played a huge part in North Carolina history. The trail is paved and suited for everyone. Head to the AllTrails website for trail information.

4. Boone's Cave Park, Lexington

Within Boone's Cave State Park there are several trails to choose from that bypass a large cave that is said to have housed Daniel Boone and his family before he made his way west. Each of the park’s hikes vary in length and difficulty. Once hikers reach the cave, they can walk inside to check it out for themselves. Head to the Boone's Cave Park webpage for more information.

5. Stone Mountain Loop Trail, Roaring Gap

The 4.5-mile loop climbs to the summit of Stone Mountain, passes a stunning waterfall and leads to the historic Hutchinson Homestead that was built in 1855. Though the trail can get a bit steep and difficult, the scenery is worth the effort. Head to the AllTrails website for trail information.

6. Mingus Creek Trail, Cherokee

Explore part of the Smokies on the Mingus Creek Trail, where you’ll pass tranquil streams and plenty of vibrant wildflowers on your way to the historic and Mingus Grist Mill that was built in 1866. The two-story mill is still in operation today and the trail is 5.8 miles round trip. Head to the Mingus Mill webpage for more information.

7. Basin Trail, Kure Beach

The easy 2.2 mile round trip Basin Trail gives visitors both history and scenic views as it cascades through beautiful and tranquil marshland and past a WWII bunker. Head to the AllTrails website for trail information.

8. School Kids Loop, White Pines

The one mile loop runs parallel to the Rocky River and leads to the remains of a cable bridge and path that was once used by young children to cross the river to get to school in the early 1900s. Head to the AllTrails website for trail information.

9. Old Field Bluff Trail, Chapel Hill

On the Johnston Mill Nature Preserve there’s a three mile trail where you’ll find what’s left of two historic grist mills and the remnants of a homestead from the 1700s. Head to the AllTrails website for trail information.

10. Gold Mine Loop, Bryson City

To even get to the Gold Mine Loop hikers must first walk through the abandoned tunnel that’s part of the famous road to nowhere — a road that was set to replace the original road in the area after it was flooded out, but construction on the new road was halted and never started up again. Once on the trail, hikers will pass by what’s left of the town that once occupied the land. Head to the AllTrails website for trail information.

What are your favorite historic hikes in North Carolina? Please let us know where in the comment section!

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