Pumpkin Loop Trail – Pumpkin Loop Trail loop from Horace Williams Airport
Pumpkin Loop Trail – Pumpkin Loop Trail loop from Horace Williams Airport
2.7
(15)
30
hikers
Pumpkin Loop Trail – Pumpkin Loop Trail loop from Horace Williams Airport
01:49
6.87km
60m
Hiking
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: May 12, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through protected areas
Please check local regulations for:
Carolina North Forest
Waypoints
Start point
Bus stop
Get Directions
2.35 km
Pumpkin Loop Trail
Highlight • Trail
3.18 km
Wormhole Spur sign, to return to the parking lot
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
3.86 km
Pumpkin Loop Trail
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
4.53 km
Pumpkin Loop Trail Entrance (to the right)
Highlight • Trail
6.87 km
End point
Bus stop
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
5.47 km
1.35 km
Surfaces
5.02 km
990 m
422 m
373 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Today
Friday 10 July
36°C
22°C
72 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 16.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're seeking an easy, accessible forest escape near Chapel Hill, the Pumpkin Loop Trail is definitely worth your time. This 4.3-mile (6.9 km) hiking route, rated easy, offers a gentle 204 feet (62 metres) of elevation gain and takes about 1 hour and 48 minutes to complete, making it perfect for a quick, refreshing outing for almost anyone.
What to expect on Pumpkin Loop Trail – Pumpkin Loop Trail loop from Horace Williams Airport
As you wander the Pumpkin Loop Trail, you'll find yourself immersed in the peaceful Carolina North Forest, sometimes known as the Horace Williams Tract. The path is primarily wide dirt and gravel, making for easy walking, though you'll encounter brief segments of singletrack and even cross a paved section of the Carolina North Greenway. The gradual elevation changes keep things interesting without ever feeling strenuous, making it a great choice for families, dog walkers, and those new to trail hiking who want to enjoy the beauty of the pines.
Planning your visit
Planning your visit to the Pumpkin Loop Trail is straightforward. You can access the loop from several points, including a gravel lot off Municipal Drive or by connecting from the Orange County Southern Municipal Services Center. While it's a year-round option, spring and fall are recommended for the best hardwood scenery, offering a particularly pleasant experience. The trail is also less susceptible to heavy rains than some other local singletrack options, meaning you can often enjoy it sooner after inclement weather.
Trail details
- Distance: 4.3 miles (6.9 km)
- Elevation gain: 204 feet (62 metres)
- Difficulty: easy
- Estimated time: 1 hours and 48 minutes
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