If you’re looking for a place to stretch your legs, clear your head, and feel like you’ve really gotten away from it all, without really straying too far from the fantastic town of Durham, NC, don’t miss Eno River State Park in North Carolina. Just a short drive from downtown Durham, Eno River State Park offers wooded trails, peaceful riverbanks, and plenty of natural beauty. It’s a great place to cool off in the summer heat, and a relaxing yet energizing spot to visit at any time of year. It’s truly one of our favorite things to do in Durham, NC.
The Eno River winds through hardwood forests, past historic mill sites, and under classic footbridges, offering endless opportunities to slow down or seek out an adventure. Whether you’re hiking the Cox Mountain Trail for its swinging bridge and elevated views, picnicking by the river’s edge, or dipping your toes in the cool water after a long walk, a visit to Eno River State Park is a picture-perfect way to spend a summer or fall afternoon in Durham.
The park is popular, but never overcrowded, and it has the kind of natural beauty that feels genuinely refreshing. And when you’re ready to mix things up, you’ll find that Eno River State Park is just the beginning of your adventures in the Triangle Region. From foodie favorite local restaurants and craft breweries to live music, art walks, and historic sites, the entire Triangle region is filled with exciting things to do.
When the sun sets and it’s time to recharge, our Durham Bed and Breakfast is where you’ll want to land. Just minutes from Eno River and downtown Durham, this top-rated North Carolina bed and breakfast blends Southern charm with luxurious comfort. With elegant rooms, personalized hospitality, and a peaceful garden setting, it’s the ideal home base for weekend getaways or longer adventures. From here, you’ll be perfectly positioned to discover why Durham is one of the most vibrant small cities in the South. Book your stay today!
The Best of Eno River State Park
Eno River State Park is one of the top outdoor destinations in the Triangle, and it deserves a spot on your seasonal to-do list. With five access points and over 4,000 acres of protected land, Eno River State Park offers something for every kind of outdoor enthusiast. Whether you’re looking for a quick nature walk, a full afternoon of hiking, or a quiet place to connect with the outdoors, this is one of the best parks in Durham, NC, to explore.
Eno River State Park follows the river through forested hills, past historic buildings, and along rocky bluffs. It’s known for its biodiversity, scenic beauty, and peaceful trails. There are approximately 30 miles of Eno River State Park trails to explore, including the popular Cox Mountain Trail. Day use of the park is free. During the summer, the river itself offers a refreshing treat, while fall brings a stunning show of color to the trees. This is hiking in Durham, NC, at its best.
Best Hiking Trails at Eno River State Park
- Cox Mountain Trail is a 3.75-mile loop and is one of the park’s most well-known hikes. This trail crosses the iconic suspension footbridge before heading up to ridge-top views of the river. It’s moderately challenging, with a good mix of terrain, making it perfect for those looking for a workout with scenic payoffs.
- Laurel Bluffs Trail is a 2.5-mile one-way trail that runs along the Eno River. This is one of the best Eno River State Park trails for river views, wildflowers, and some quiet solitude. It’s also great for birdwatching, and it connects to other trails for a longer outing if you’re up for it.
- Eno Quarry Trail is a short 0.8-mile loop that leads to a hidden quarry pond surrounded by trees. It’s a popular spot in the summer, and although swimming isn’t advised, it’s a peaceful area to explore or relax near the water.
- Pump Station Trail is a 1.5-mile loop that features the stone ruins of Durham’s first water pumping station.
- Another historic trail in Eno River State Park is the Holden Mill Trail. It’s a 2.6-mile hike that loops around the remnants of the old Holden Mill site, treating you to river views, forested sections, and some elevation changes along the way.
- Buckquarter Creek Trail packs a lot into a short distance. This 1.5-mile loop features river rapids, gentle inclines, and gorgeous overlook points. It connects with longer trails if you want to extend your hike at Eno River State Park.
- Fanny’s Ford Trail is just over 1 mile long and offers a peaceful, easy walk that’s perfect for beginners or those who just want a short escape into nature.
Apart from being a great place to stretch your legs while in town, Eno River State Park is also a popular spot to fish and simply enjoy a picnic.
Where to Stay Near Eno River Park
There’s no better place to stay near Eno River State Park than the Arrowhead Inn. This elegant, award-winning Durham Bed and Breakfast offers a quiet, upscale retreat just minutes from the park’s best trailheads. Whether you’ve spent the day hiking the Cox Mountain Trail or exploring the Holden Mill ruins, you’ll appreciate the comfort and charm waiting for you back at the Inn. Relax in a luxurious room, soak in a jetted tub, or sip a glass of wine on the porch while you relive the highlights of your day outdoors.
Our Durham Bed and Breakfast isn’t just about convenience and comfort, though. It’s about connection. We’ve thoughtfully curated our guest experience to provide a personalized stay that will make your time in Durham anything but ordinary. From elegant guest rooms to a historic cabin and private guest cottage, our accommodations are a much more elevated experience than a standard hotel room. Our main building, dating back to 1775, offers guests an immersive experience in Durham’s rich history.
Wake up to a homemade, chef-prepared breakfast before heading out for another adventure. You’re perfectly located to explore not only Eno River State Park but also the many things to do in Durham NC and beyond. From acclaimed restaurants and farmers markets to museums and music festivals, you’ll find something new around every corner.
Whether you’re planning to hike the best trails in Durham, dips your toes in the Eno River, or simply enjoy the rhythm of the seasons in one of the most vibrant parts of North Carolina, our Durham, NC Bed and Breakfast is the ideal home base for all your summer and fall adventures in the Triangle. Book your getaway today!
