Trails in Lumberton, NC

Explore Trails in Lumberton
From quiet river paddles to easy walking loops and scenic greenways, Lumberton offers a range of trail experiences for every pace and interest. Whether you’re looking to get on the water, take a short walk, or spend time exploring the outdoors, these trails give you a simple way to experience the area.
Princess Ann Access (Paddling Trail)
Lumber River State Park
Activities: Kayaking, Canoeing, Paddling
Princess Ann Access is your gateway to the Lumber River, one of North Carolina’s designated Natural and Scenic Rivers. This is a calm, blackwater paddling experience that’s ideal for beginners and those looking for a slower, more peaceful trip.
The river moves gently through cypress and hardwood forests, creating a quiet setting for wildlife viewing and long, relaxed paddles. You can plan a short out-and-back trip or connect to longer routes depending on your experience level.
Good to Know:
- Calm water conditions make this a beginner-friendly paddle
- Best enjoyed in the morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures
- Bring water, sun protection, and bug spray
Naked Landing Trail
Lumber River State Park
Distance: 0.4 miles
Activities: Walking, Hiking
The Naked Landing Trail is a short, easy walk that gives you a feel for the natural landscape along the Lumber River. It’s a good option if you want to stretch your legs without committing to a longer hike.
The trail runs through a shaded forest environment with natural ground surfaces. You’ll see native plants, trees, and possibly wildlife along the way. While short, it’s a peaceful and immersive experience.
Good to Know:
- Natural surface trail with roots and uneven areas
- Mostly flat and manageable for most visitors
- Great add-on to a paddling trip nearby
StoryWalk Interactive Trail
Luther Britt Park
Distance: 0.25 miles
Activities: Walking
The StoryWalk Interactive Trail combines reading and movement, making it a fun, engaging experience for families with young children. As you walk along the trail, you’ll move from station to station, following pages of a story.
It’s short, easy to follow, and designed to keep kids moving while staying engaged. This is a great option if you’re looking for something low-key and family-friendly.
Good to Know:
- Short and accessible for most visitors
- Designed for children and families
- Located within Luther Britt Park near other amenities
Luther Britt Park Loop Trail
Luther Britt Park
Distance: 1.5 miles
Activities: Walking, Running, Biking, Disc Golf
This loop trail circles through Luther Britt Park and offers one of the most flexible trail experiences in the area. You can walk, run, or bike the loop, and it also connects to parts of the park’s disc golf course.
The trail moves between open spaces and shaded areas near the lake, giving you a mix of scenery along the way. It’s long enough for a solid walk but still manageable for casual visitors.
Good to Know:
- Mixed surface trail with both smooth and natural sections
- Good for longer walks or light exercise
- Easy to combine with other park activities
Northeast Park Loop
(Pennington Complex Walking Trail)
Dr. Raymond B. Pennington Athletic Complex
Distance: 0.8 miles
Activities: Walking
The Northeast Park Loop at the Pennington Athletic Complex is a simple, easy-to-follow walking trail that loops through the park’s sports and recreation areas.
With a firm, smooth surface and minimal elevation change, this is one of the most accessible walking options in Lumberton. It’s ideal for a quick walk, casual exercise, or getting outside without dealing with uneven terrain.
Good to Know:
- Smooth, easy-to-navigate surface
- Great for all ages and ability levels
- Close to playgrounds, fields, and picnic areas
Downtown Riverwalk / Lumberton Riverwalk & Greenway
Downtown Lumberton
Distance: 3.2 miles (out-and-back)
Activities: Walking, Running, Biking
The Downtown Riverwalk is one of the most scenic and accessible trails in Lumberton. This 3.2-mile out-and-back greenway follows the Lumber River and connects downtown to Luther Britt Park.
Along the way, you’ll pass murals, art spaces, small parks, and river views, making it more than just a trail, it’s a way to experience the community.
Good to Know:
- Mostly paved or firm surface
- Ideal for longer walks, runs, or bike rides
- Easy to break into shorter sections if needed
Plan Your Trail Experience
Whether you’re exploring by foot, bike, or kayak, Lumberton’s trails offer a range of ways to get outside. Many of these trails connect to parks, river access points, and community spaces, making it easy to build your own experience.
Before heading out, be sure to check weather conditions, bring water, and plan ahead so you can enjoy your time safely and responsibly.

