Hiking at the Guilford County Farm offers a serene escape into nature, combining rustic charm with scenic beauty. Located in the northeast part of Guilford County, North Carolina, near Elon and Gibsonville, this working farm features trails that wind through lush woodlands, open fields, and peaceful streams. Hikers can enjoy a mix of gentle terrain and immersive greenery.
The trails, totaling approximately 2.8 miles, are suitable for all skill levels and showcase the area’s rich biodiversity, with opportunities to spot local wildlife, seasonal wildflowers, and the occasional livestock. We absolutely loved hiking these trails and have included some additional information below. The images are clickable, allowing you to view more pictures and a YouTube video of each trail. We also have a quick list view available in table format if that is more your style. Happy adventuring!
Table of Contents
The Breakaway Trail
📍 Begins at the historic prison and meanders through open fields under expansive Carolina blue skies.
🌲 Leads to a wooded area where the Prison Run Pass and Preacher’s Run Pass converge.
🐴 Visitors can spot donkeys, goats, and other livestock along the trail.
Prison Run Pass Trail
🌳 The Prison Run Pass Trail is a scenic 1.1-mile segment of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail in North Carolina.
🌿 Hikers experience a variety of landscapes, including open fields and woodlands, as well as trails alongside Travis Creek with natural granite slab crossings.
🌅 The trail offers expansive views of the rolling hills of the Piedmont and the clear Carolina skies, with opportunities to spot local wildlife such as beavers, deer, and various bird species.
🔗 The trail connects to the Preacher’s Pass (Chain Gang Connector), creating a 1.8-mile loop.
🛣️ Access is available from the trailhead at the intersection of Gibsonville-Ossipee and Amick Roads, or by hiking down the Breakaway Trail from the parking area near the old prison.
🌾 This trail provides a tranquil escape rich in the area’s agricultural and historical heritage.
Preacher’s Pass Trail (Chain Gang Connector)
🌄 The Preacher’s Pass, or Chain Gang Connector Trail, is a scenic 0.7-mile segment of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail.
🌱 Opened in March 2020, the trail features diverse landscapes of open fields and young hardwood forests.
🏞️ Hikers can enjoy picturesque views alongside Travis Creek, including a stunning overlook for vibrant sunsets.
🔗 The trail’s name reflects the farm’s history as a prison farm, operational from the 1920s until 2015.
🚶 Accessible from the trailhead at Gibsonville-Ossipee and Amick Roads or via the Breakaway Trail from the old prison’s parking area.
🛠️ Crafted by volunteers from the Friends of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail, including a notable arch bridge.
🔄 Connects with the Prison Run Pass, creating a 1.8-mile loop for exploring the area’s biodiversity and historical significance.