Fall in the Piedmont is a great time to get outside, with vibrant displays of fall colors, crisp weather, and a variety of activities for the whole family! Whether you’re eager to explore nature, navigate through corn mazes, or enjoy one of the many fall festivals in the area, there’s plenty to do throughout the season. Here’s a guide to some of our favorite outdoor fall activities to enjoy with kids in the beautiful Piedmont-Triad area. 

Fall Foliage Hikes 

North Carolina offers some of the best fall colors to be found anywhere, and the Piedmont area is no exception. Here are some great spots for family-friendly hikes that showcase the season’s beauty: 

Hanging Rock State Park: Located in Stokes County, this park offers several trails suitable for all ages. The Hanging Rock Trail is a moderate hike that rewards you with spectacular views of the surrounding landscape, adorned in fall colors. The park is also home to a 0.1-mile ADA accessible trail, allowing for people of all abilities to get out and enjoy a crisp fall hike. 

Knight-Brown Nature Preserve: This hidden gem in Rockingham County offers peaceful trails through hardwood forests, perfect for a quiet family outing. The preserve is particularly beautiful in the fall, with vibrant leaves creating a picturesque backdrop. 

Pilot Mountain State Park: Just west of hanging rock in Surry County, this park features several trails that provide panoramic views of the Piedmont region. The Jomeokee Trail is a favorite for families, offering a relatively easy hike around the base of Pilot Mountain with the unique rock formations of the Pilot Knob on one side and breathtaking views of fall foliage on the other. 

Hagan-Stone Park: Located in Guilford County, this park offers a variety of trails that wind through scenic woodlands and around serene lakes. It’s an excellent spot for a leisurely hike and a picnic amidst the fall foliage. 

Corn Mazes 

Corn mazes are a staple of fall fun in North Carolina and are also usually accompanied by other great autumn attractions like hayrides, pumpkin patches, and more! 

Kersey Valley Maize Adventure: Located in Guilford County, this maze covers several acres and offers a variety of paths to explore. Each year, the maze features a new design, ensuring a unique experience every time. The maze is a part of the larger Kersey Valley adventure complex which is home to many other attractions including their Spooky Woods haunted tour, ziplining, escape room, and lots more, making it a major destination for fall fun in the Triad! 

Alpha & Omega Corn Maze: For our western Piedmont friends, the Alpha & Omega Corn Maze is located in southwestern Yadkin County in the town of Hamptonville. The 5-acre maze is surrounded by dozens of other great farm activities like axe throwing, play areas, fire pits, and even a pumpkin cannon! The farm also features a restaurant and entertainment stage with live music events happening throughout the season. 

Fall Festivals 

Fall festivals are a fantastic way to celebrate the season, offering a mix of entertainment, food, and activities. Here are some notable festivals in the Piedmont area: 

Autumn Leaves Festival: This October 11th-13th in historic downtown Mount Airy, the Autumn Leaves Festival is one of North Carolina’s longest running events with history dating back to 1966. They offer arts and crafts from 200+ vendors, live music celebrating the heritage of the area, and food of all flavors. While you’re there, be sure to grab one of Surry County’s famous ground steak sandwiches! Best of all, admission to this festival is free! 

Carolina Classic Fair: Held in Winston-Salem October 4th-13th, this fair is one of the largest in North Carolina. It features rides, games, live entertainment, and a variety of food vendors. The fair also includes agricultural exhibits and competitions, making it a fun and educational experience for kids. 

Lexington Barbecue Festival: This festival, set in historic Uptown Lexington, is an annual celebration of the world-famous Lexington style barbecue. Along with the amazing food you’ll find live music, arts and crafts, and a beer and wine garden for the grown-ups! The festival is one day only on October 26th. Admission is free but be sure to bring money for barbecue! 

The Piedmont area offers an incredible array of fall activities that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Whether you’re hiking through colorful forests, getting lost in a corn maze, or enjoying the many local flavors at a fall festival, there’s no shortage of fun to be had. So, gather your family, embrace the crisp fall air, and make some unforgettable memories this season.