Rockingham Community College’s trail system offers hikers an inviting journey through a diverse landscape that includes pine and hardwood forests, meandering creeks, a variety of native plant species, and a small cascade. Established in 1974, RCC’s trails wind through the wooded portion of campus.
RCC has collaborated with Duke Energy, the Rockingham Community College Foundation, the Dan River Basin Association, and the Reidsville Area Foundation to help design, construct, and maintain the current trail system. RCC faculty, staff, students, alumni, and former students participating in the RCC Duke Energy TRAILS Continuing Education Program have also assisted with construction and maintenance.
Trail Access
Trailheads are located in parking areas for the Bishopric Lifelong Learning Center, Whitcomb Student Center, and Science Building. The Woodlands Trail traverses the length of campus and connects the Bishopric and Science trailheads. The Cascades Trail is accessed from the Woodlands Trail closest to the Bishopric Trailhead. The Campus Loop Trail is located in the core of campus and follows the sidewalks and asphalt path that connect the Whitcomb Student Center, Gerald B. James Library, Science, Humanities, and Advanced Technologies buildings.
RCC Trails
Woodlands Trail
- Allowed Use: Hike
- Width: 5 feet wide
- Length: 1.9 miles
- Average Grade/Steepness: Beginner (≤10% grade), smooth natural surface with gentle ups and downs.
Cascades Trail
- Allowed Use: Hike
- Width: 3-4 feet wide
- Length: 1.25 miles
- Average Grade/Steepness: Intermediate (≤10% grade with some short sections up to 15%), smooth to variable natural surface with some roots and rocks, gentle to moderate ups and downs.
Campus Loop
- Allowed Use: Hike
- Width: varies
- Length: 0.5 miles
- Average Grade/Steepness: Beginner (≤10% grade), smooth asphalt or concrete surface with gentle ups and downs.
Trail System Rules
- Open during daylight hours only
- Stay off wet trails
- Help keep the trails clean
- Keep pets on short leash (6 feet max.)
- Remove your pet’s waste
- Bikes and motorized vehicles are not allowed on trails
- Possession or consumption of alcoholic beverages and tobacco products is prohibited
- Report any suspicious activity to 911
Acknowledgments
- Duke Energy
- Reidsville Area Foundation
- Dan River Basin Association
- Rockingham Community College Foundation
- RCC faculty, staff, students, alumni, and former students of the RCC Duke Energy TRAILS Program
