Long Branch Trail
A scenic paved trail weaving through Winston-Salem's Innovation Quarter, offering a blend of urban views and natural beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Serene and quiet escape
Long Branch Trail
Best Time
Serene and quiet escape
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic paved trail weaving through Winston-Salem's Innovation Quarter, offering a blend of urban views and natural beauty.
"One of my favorite green ways/trails in the Triad. Love how it weaves through the Innovation quarter."
🚗 Parking Strategy
Parking can be tricky; try entrances near Wake Forest Medicine or explore alternative access points .
🚴♀️ Bike Rentals Available
Fun excursion option! Rental bikes are available for a great way to explore the trail .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Innovation Quarter Weave
Winston-Salem, NC
Experience a unique blend of urban development and nature as the trail winds through the vibrant Innovation Quarter.
Wooden Bridge Adventures
Various points along the trail
Enjoy the scenic beauty as the trail crosses charming wooden bridges, adding a touch of rustic appeal to your walk or ride.
Smooth Paved Pathways
Entire trail length
Perfect for all levels of activity, the well-maintained asphalt surface is ideal for walking, running, biking, and even rollerblading.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Urban Oasis
Timing is Key for Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Strategy
Parking can be tricky; try entrances near Wake Forest Medicine or explore alternative access points.
🚴♀️ Bike Rentals Available
Fun excursion option! Rental bikes are available for a great way to explore the trail.
🚶♀️ Smooth for All
Paved path is great for walking, running, biking, and even rollerblading.
🚧 Construction Detours
Phase Two construction may cause detours, but the trail remains accessible.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Strategy
Parking can be tricky; try entrances near Wake Forest Medicine or explore alternative access points.
🚴♀️ Bike Rentals Available
Fun excursion option! Rental bikes are available for a great way to explore the trail.
🚶♀️ Smooth for All
Paved path is great for walking, running, biking, and even rollerblading.
🚧 Construction Detours
Phase Two construction may cause detours, but the trail remains accessible.
🌳 Shaded Spots
Enjoy pockets of shade along the trail, making your journey more comfortable.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Long Branch Trail's beautiful, well-maintained paved paths, perfect for walking, running, and biking. Its unique blend of urban scenery within the Innovation Quarter and charming wooden bridges is a major draw. While parking can be difficult at popular entrances, the trail's accessibility and amenities like emergency phones make it a beloved local spot.
"Very beautiful well maintained and emergency phones along the trail as well"
Carla Fleming
"One of my favorite green ways/trails in the Triad. Love how it weaves through the Innovation quarter with a wide berth that makes it easy for 🏃 runners, walkers, 🚲 cyclists, and more to share the path. There are also rental bikes available for those that want a fun excursion."
Jordan Burleson
"Very fun bike trail that goes over wooden bridges. There was some shade spots that made it more enjoyable."
Bil Ped igo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can pick up the Long Branch Trail from downtown Winston-Salem at MLK or 3rd Street. It leads downhill to the Salem Creek Greenway, which you can then take west past Happy Hill. From there, you can connect to the Strollway at the Main Street roundabout for an uphill return to downtown.
Popular entrances include those near Wake Forest Medicine and along the Innovation Quarter. However, parking can be limited at these spots, so consider exploring other access points for a potentially easier parking experience.
While specific public transport routes directly to trailheads might vary, the trail's proximity to downtown Winston-Salem means it's often accessible via bus routes serving the city center. Check local transit schedules for routes near the Innovation Quarter.
Yes, Long Branch Trail is generally well-marked on most navigation apps. Searching for 'Long Branch Trail Winston-Salem' should provide accurate directions to various access points.
There isn't one designated large parking lot for the entire trail. Parking is typically found in smaller lots or on-street parking near the various access points, particularly around the Innovation Quarter and residential areas adjacent to the trail.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Long Branch Trail is a public park and does not have an admission fee. It's free to access and enjoy for everyone.
As an outdoor public trail, Long Branch Trail is generally accessible from dawn until dusk. There are no official closing times, but it's advisable to visit during daylight hours for safety and visibility.
No advance booking is required to visit Long Branch Trail. It's a public space, and you can visit anytime during daylight hours.
There are no passes or memberships required for Long Branch Trail. It is a free public amenity for the community to enjoy.
The primary restriction is to respect the natural environment and other users. While generally open, temporary access restrictions might occur due to construction or maintenance, as noted with Phase Two of the Innovation Quarter.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
The trail features a smooth, paved asphalt surface for much of its length, making it excellent for walking, running, and cycling. There are also sections with wooden bridges that add to the scenic experience.
Yes, the paved asphalt surface makes Long Branch Trail very accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, allowing for an enjoyable experience for visitors with mobility needs.
Restroom availability can vary depending on the specific access points and nearby facilities within the Innovation Quarter. It's advisable to check for facilities near your chosen starting point.
Yes, there are emergency phones located along the trail, providing an added layer of safety for visitors.
Typically, public trails like Long Branch Trail allow dogs, but they must be kept on a leash. Always check local park regulations for specific pet policies.
🎫 🚴♂️ Activities & Recreation
Long Branch Trail is perfect for walking, running, cycling, and even rollerblading due to its smooth paved surface. It's also a great spot for a leisurely stroll and enjoying the urban nature blend.
Yes, rental bikes are available, offering a fun way to explore the trail and the surrounding Innovation Quarter.
Absolutely! Weekday mornings are ideal for a serene and quiet run on Long Branch Trail, offering beautiful views as the city awakens.
The smooth asphalt surface makes Long Branch Trail suitable for rollerblading, providing a fun and accessible experience for skaters.
You can expect a mix of urban landscapes within the Innovation Quarter, interspersed with natural elements and charming wooden bridges, creating a unique and visually interesting environment.
📸 📸 Photography
The trail offers great photo opportunities where it weaves through the Innovation Quarter, with its modern architecture juxtaposed against nature. The wooden bridges also make for picturesque shots.
Late afternoons can offer beautiful golden hour lighting as the sun sets, casting a warm glow over the trail and surrounding urban elements. Sunrise can also be a peaceful time for photography.
Urban nature photography, landscape shots capturing the blend of city and green space, and action shots of runners and cyclists are all well-suited for this trail.
The modern architecture of the Innovation Quarter and the various wooden bridges along the trail serve as excellent landmarks for photography.
Early mornings and late afternoons generally offer the best lighting conditions for photography, with softer light and fewer crowds.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parents can appreciate the presence of emergency phones for added safety, and the trail's integration with the Innovation Quarter means there are often nearby amenities or points of interest. While parking can be a bit challenging, choosing an entrance with more available spots can make the outing smoother. It's a great way to get some fresh air and exercise together in a safe and pleasant environment.
🏃♀️ Runners and Fitness Enthusiasts
Consider the route suggested from downtown: starting at MLK or 3rd Street, heading downhill to Salem Creek Greenway, and then connecting to the Strollway for an uphill return offers a challenging yet rewarding 5-8 mile loop. Weekday mornings are particularly recommended for a peaceful and less crowded running experience.
🚲 Cyclists and Skaters
Bike rentals are available, making it a convenient option for those who want to explore the trail without bringing their own equipment. While construction may cause minor detours, the trail remains largely accessible and provides a great opportunity for a recreational ride or a more active commute.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Long Branch Trail: A Runner's Guide
Many users praise the trail for its ability to accommodate different paces and activities simultaneously. The wide berth of the path makes it easy for runners, walkers, and cyclists to share the space comfortably. While the trail itself is smooth, be aware of potential detours due to ongoing construction in the Innovation Quarter's Phase Two, though the trail remains accessible. The presence of emergency phones along the trail also adds a layer of security for solo runners.
For those seeking a more tranquil experience, visiting during weekday mornings is highly recommended. This is when the trail is at its quietest and most serene, allowing for an uninterrupted run amidst the awakening city. The blend of paved paths, occasional wooden bridges, and urban greenery makes Long Branch Trail a versatile and enjoyable destination for runners of all levels.
Exploring Long Branch Trail by Bike
One of the highlights for bikers is the presence of charming wooden bridges that cross over various points along the trail, adding a picturesque element to the journey. For those who don't have their own bikes, rental options are available, making it convenient for visitors to hop on and explore the trail and its surroundings. This accessibility is a major draw for those looking for an active way to experience the city.
While the trail is generally well-maintained, it's worth noting that ongoing construction in Phase Two of the Innovation Quarter might necessitate minor detours. However, these detours are usually well-signed, ensuring cyclists can navigate around any temporary disruptions. The trail's accessibility from downtown Winston-Salem also makes it a convenient option for those looking to combine urban exploration with outdoor activity.
The Urban Nature Blend of Long Branch Trail
The trail is characterized by its smooth asphalt surface, making it accessible and enjoyable for a wide range of activities, from a casual walk to a brisk jog or bike ride. The presence of wooden bridges adds a rustic charm to the path, enhancing the scenic appeal and offering picturesque spots for photos. Even with ongoing construction in the Innovation Quarter, the trail remains a vibrant and accessible green space for the community.
Visitors often highlight the trail's well-maintained condition and the sense of peace it offers, even within an urban setting. The availability of emergency phones along the route provides an added sense of security, encouraging people to explore and enjoy the outdoors. Whether you're a local looking for a daily dose of nature or a visitor seeking a pleasant outdoor activity, Long Branch Trail delivers a rewarding experience.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit