Hike & Paddle

Cliffs of the Neuse State Park encompasses over 1,000 acres. The new visitors center is open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM and features delightful and educational exhibits as well as meeting space for up to 100. The Cliffs also offer an 11 acre swimming lake, camping opportunities and over 9 hiking trails throughout the park’s historic landscape.

Phone | (919) 778-6234

Our park is located on the site of the former town of Waynesborough, the original seat of Wayne County from 1787 until 1847. The park consists of a village featuring nine historic buildings brought from across the county. In addition to the village we have over 150 acres along the Neuse and Little Rivers with over four miles of walking trails through open spaces, forest, and cypress swamp.

Phone | (919) 731-1653

Discover the Stoney Creek North Greenway and Mountain Bike Trails, with over 3 miles of single track bike trails, a paved greenway and various interior trails throughout the park, you will have a good afternoon of exploration. Bring the fur-kids along and enjoy the fenced in dog park or bring along the whole family and enjoy walking through the serene landscape or play at the 18-hole disc golf course.

Phone | (919) 739-7480

This battlefield is the site of Foster’s Raid on Goldsborough Bridge. On December 17, 1862, some 2,000 Confederate forces attempted to stop Union General John Foster’s 12,000 troops from destroying this vital railroad bridge. It was a pivotal turning point in the Civil War. This site now entails walking trails to take visitors to nine historical markers where specific events of the battle are detailed. 

Follow the Goldsborough Bridge Battlefield

The Wayne County Paddle Trails consist of over 70 miles of interconnected rivers, streams, and tributaries that twist and wind through Wayne County. The main artery of water, the Neuse River, is estimated to be two million years old and has an abundance of wildlife in and along its banks. Paddle by the Cliffs of the Neuse where the river cuts a 90-ft. gorge through limestone and sandstone bluffs. Wayne County Paddle Trails is part of the Statewide System of Paddle Trails being promoted by NC Paddle Trails Association.

For more information on paddling events and updates call (919) 734-7922.

The Mountains-to-Sea Trail (MST) stretches 1,175 miles across North Carolina. From Clingman’s Dme in the Great Smokey Mountains to Jockey’s Ridge on the Outer Banks, the trail traces the diversity that is North Carolina. Goldsboro is a proud trail community in the Neuse River Route portion of the MST. The trail portion that makes its way through Goldsboro-Wayne County is extra special because you can choose to hike or paddle it! Although the land portion of the MST in our area doesn’t fully connect yet, use this map to hike several sections that are already open. If you’re eager to trek the MST across North Carolina, you can pick up a paddle and cruise the Neuse as part of your 1,175 mile journey.