This 113-acre preserve crosses a beautiful landscape as it climbs up the ridge and connects with the Appalachian Trail near Velvet Rocks.
Guide.
To get here: From the intersection of Route 120 and Greensboro Road, turn onto Greensboro Road. In 0.4 miles, turn left onto Velvet Rocks Drive. Continue to the trailhead parking area at the top of the road. Please respect the privacy of the residential community on your way to and from the natural area. No overnight parking is permitted at the trailhead.
Trails:
Greensboro Ridge offers an invigorating hour-long hike on a 1.5-mile loop through a classic rocky New England forest. Oli’s Eagle Trail (0.5 miles, foot travel only), connects to the Appalachian Trail in a 20-minute hike, traversing moderate terrain. Sections of the trail pass over ledges and boulders.
The Greensboro Highlands Trail (0.6 miles) meanders past dramatic mossy rock faces and more. Vertical gain is about 300 feet. The trail is for foot travel only.
The Silent Brook Trail (0.4 miles), where mountain biking is permitted in addition to hiking, connects the Silent Brook and Velvet Rocks neighborhoods and links the Greensboro Highlands Trail with Oli’s Trail. Dogs are permitted if under their owners’ control; please pick up after your pet. Hunting is permitted in season.
Trail map.