Perhaps unsurprisingly, Chapel Hill, North Carolina is home to an abundance of natural and beautiful hiking trails. From the Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area, to the Johnston Mill Nature Preserve, to the Carolina North Forest, Chapel Hill has a plethora of hiking trails for you to enjoy.
However, if you are looking for some of the best coffee shops near Chapel Hill’s hiking trails, then we’ve got you covered. Below, we’re going to review some of the best coffee shops near Chapel Hill which are also close to North Carolina’s famed hiking trails.
Best Hiking Trails Near Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill may be better known for its iconic universities and hospitals then for its hiking trails. However, as it is nicknamed, “the southern part of heaven”, Chapel Hill offers a wide range of outdoor and hiking opportunities for amateurs and enthusiasts alike.
A mere 21-minute drive from the University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill are the famed Occoneechee Mountains. The Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area offers visitors a quick escape into nature, with a three-mile trail exploring riverside forests, quiet, serene ponds for fishing, and elevated bluffs perfect for that Instagram post. In addition, at more than 350-feet, the Occoneechee Mountain summit is the highest point in Orange County.
If you’re looking to parlay your love of history with your hike, then the Johnston Mill Nature Preserve is the perfect hiking trail near Chapel Hill for you. Only a short drive from downtown Chapel Hill, Johnston Mill Nature Preserve offers visitors over 300-acres of unobstructed walking and hiking trails.
However, what really differentiates Johnston Mill Nature Preserve from other hiking trails near Chapel Hill are the various landmarks and historical monuments along the path. This includes the Johnston family farm and remnants of two old gristmills.
Lastly, if you are a university student looking to make a quick escape into the great outdoors, then the Carolina North Forest is your best bet. Nestled on the University of North Carolina’s Carolina North campus, between Chapel Hill and Carrboro, this trail offers a tranquil natural oasis allowing students to relax, unwind, and take a much needed break away from studying.
Perennial Café
Perennial Café is located on 401 West Franklin Street, Chapel Hill, North Carolina and specializes in a simple, pure espresso-based beverage menu. The attention to detail can be found with each cup purchased and the ambiance of the store is nothing short of brilliant.
With a rustic, old-school café feel, Perennial will bring you back to simpler times. And whether you are looking for a quick bite to eat or some energy before your big hike, Perennial is your go-to and one of the best coffee shops around Chapel Hill that remains within close distance to the hiking trails.
Summit Coffee
What better ode to hiking trails is there in Chapel Hill than Summit Coffee? I mean, the very logo of the company is of a mountainous range, evoking imagery of both simpler times and a more organic return to nature. And speaking of organic, Summit Coffee has been steadfast in their pursuit for quality, organic coffee beans since 1998.
Sourcing beans from both local and international small-farm producers, Summit Coffee is pushing the envelope further, with their commitment to both transparency and relationship. If you’re looking for a friendly, hip, organic, and transparent coffee shop near Chapel Hill’s hiking trails, then Summit Coffee has you covered.
Coco Bean Coffee Shop
Voted best coffee shop and best dessert and pastries in 2017, 2018, and 2019, Coco Bean Coffee Shop is a must have for any wandering heart. As an independent, locally owned coffee shop, Coco Bean strives for quality in all of their products.
They believe in buying local, being eco-friendly in both their purchasing and sourcing of items and offering baked good which appeal to a wide and varied lifestyle, including both vegan and gluten-free options. With a warm, friendly, and inviting atmosphere, Coco Bean Coffee Shop will leave you smiling ear-to-ear on your way to a local hiking trail in the Chapel Hill region.
Caffe Driade
Last, but certainly not least on our list of the best coffee shops near Chapel Hill’s hiking trails is Caffe Driade. Now, with more than 25-years of business, Caffe Driade has become a staple in many people’s lives and their experiences working and studying nearthe university. However, this coffee shop can be hard to find and many people don’t notice it, tucked away off of the famous Franklin Street.
What we loved about Caffe Driade, particularly for an article about coffee shops and hiking trails, was the unique intersection Caffe Driade had within nature. Nearly adjacent to Bolin Creek Trail, Caffe Driade offers a nice, quick escape from the busyness of everyday living to offer a sensational cup of coffee, right off of a hiking trail. I mean, what more could you ask for?