If you’ve been singing the lyrics “I walk a lonely road” a lot lately, you’re not… alone (well, in a sense). Roads in the Triad are lonelier than many, but we’ll get to that in a minute.
If national averages indicate anything, it’s that roads overall may have seen fewer walkers during the past few years. According to a recent data report by Streetlight, annual average daily walking trips dropped 36% in the US between 2019 and 2022.
How does that national average shake out in Winston-Salem, and where are the best spots to raise those national trend (and step count) numbers? Let’s take a look.
By the numbers
- -41% | Percent change in walking trips in North Carolina
- -46% | Percent change in walking trips in Greensboro-High Point
- 22 | Winston-Salem’s average score out of 100 on Walk Score’s walkability meter
What does a percent change in walking trips mean? Say a metro area sees a -50% change in walking trips. This means, on average, walking trips declined by 50% in that area. (For the record, none of the top 100 metros in the study saw that much of a decline — the biggest dip was 49% in Akron, OH.)
Where to walk the walk
Wondering where you can get your steps in? Check out these pedestrian-friendly spots around town, from local parks to protected streets.
- Miller Park | In addition to its amphitheater, sports fields, and rec center, Miller Park has 1.5 combined miles of walking trails through the woods.
- Long Branch Trail | This 1.7-mile greenway is great way to stay active and see Innovation Quarter.
- Winston-Salem Strollway | Take a 1.2-mile mosey through the history of Winston-Salem, from Old Salem to First Street.
- Reynolda Village trail | Walk by shops, gardens, and Reynolda Museum of American Art, or enjoy the woodlands trail, all in just under four miles.
Pro tip: Winston-Salem Recreation & Parks has a map of local greenways to help you plan your walks + bike shares.
