Outdoor Winter Adventure in Cabarrus County

After arriving in Cabarrus County, grab your gear and head toward downtown Concord. The city’s mountain bike trail, Brown Mill, is the ultimate way to stretch your legs after your journey to the area. This 4.5-mile trail is open dawn to dusk and provides features that riders of all levels will enjoy.

The trail is located just outside of the heart of downtown, so be sure to make a stop at some of the small businesses and local eateries in this area, too.

If you prefer to stroll near downtown, try the Downtown Greenway Loop. This three-mile trail starts at McGee Park in Concord and traverses paved trails, stone walks and bridges that are all part of the urban greenway system.

Another community gathering hub located just outside of the city center is Gibson Mill. Satisfy the appetite that was worked up on the trail with a number of local restaurant vendors. Dining options at the Gibson Mill Market food hall  include pizza from flaming hot ovens, award-winning burgers, fresh seafood and so much more.

Gibson Mill is also home to two craft breweries and tons of entertainment. Experience axe throwing, settle in at the board game café, or test your skills inside the escape room.

Any lodging option in Cabarrus County will land you close to one of the area’s greenways. As home to several portions of the Carolina Thread Trail network, this destination offers everything from paved paths to natural trails to explore. Spending the night near Exit 49 area? Start your day with a brisk stroll along the Hector H. Henry II Greenway Riverwalk segment which connects a dog park to Embassy Suites.

Fuel up for another day of outdoor fun with brunch at 44 Mills. Kitchen + Tap. As a spot that focuses on seasonality, the menu rotates to highlight the freshest ingredients.

Make the journey out to Midland to step back in time at Reed Gold Mine, where a 17-pound gold nugget was discovered in 1799 and kicked off the gold rush in North Carolina. After ceasing mining activities, it became a state historic site and popular attraction.

Reed Gold Mine is the site of the first documented gold discovery in the state.  Gold panning ends in October, but the mine is still open for guided tours. The 30-minute tours explore portions of the underground tunnels and highlight the history of the mine. The grounds also have walking trails and mining equipment on display for guests to enjoy.

Book the local bed and breakfast and check in after your day at Reed Gold Mine. From The Inn at Mt. Pleasant, take a short walk to 73 & Main, a textile mill-turned-neighborhood restaurant.

The menu here also features farm-to-table ingredients and even incorporates a locally made spirit into select dishes. Award-winning bourbon from the town’s Southern Grace Distilleries is made just minutes from the restaurant, and you’ll find it infused in 73 & Main menu items like the Baby Back Ribs and Hand Breaded Boneless Chicken Wings.

Settle in for the night at The Inn at Mount Pleasant. Built circa 1920, this stunning home is on the National Register of Historic Places and provides guest the most welcoming experience. End your night around the fire circle, and rest up for another exciting day ahead.

After indulging in the homemade breakfast included with your stay, hit the trail! The Buffalo Creek Preserve Trail in Mt. Pleasant is a natural surface trail ideal for biking.

The two-mile trail winds though a restored Piedmont oak savanna and runs alongside farm fields before reaching the bluff above Adams Creek. Buffalo Creek Preserve is part of a 393-acre protected preserve that includes several streams, ponds and wetlands.

As your outdoor adventure winds down, plan a delicious lunch, spend time browsing at the area’s antique malls and boutiques, or enjoy the indoors before you depart.

Winter is an extraordinary season to experience Cabarrus County, and there’s no shortage of fun, indoors and out!