Lace up your boots and discover the beauty of the Triangle! This guide features 20--16 trails, catering to all experience levels, and showcasing the breathtaking scenery around Raleigh, Durham, and beyond.
Pro Tip: Before you hit the trail, check park websites for current conditions, safety information, and any potential closures.
Wake County
Blue Jay Point Nature Walk (Raleigh): Easy, 1.5 miles. Perfect for families, this dog-friendly (on leash) loop offers serene lake and creek views alongside a playground.
North Carolina Museum of Art Park (Raleigh): Easy, 1.7 miles. Partially wheelchair accessible, this paved path lets you enjoy art installations and beautiful flora. Bonus: The NCMA offers guided park tours!
Sal's Branch Trail (William B. Umstead State Park): Easy, 2.5 miles. This dog-friendly (on leash) loop winds through pines and hardwoods, popular for running, hiking, and fishing.
Lake Lynn Trail (Lake Lynn Park): Easy, 2.6 miles. Partially wheelchair accessible, this paved trail with boardwalks offers glimpses of aquatic life like ducks and turtles.
New Hope Overlook Blue Route (Jordan Lake State Recreation Area): Easy, 2.8 miles. Dog-friendly (on leash), this trail features various Jordan Lake viewpoints with a short detour to the water's edge (marked). Be aware of some steep hills.
Lake Johnson East Loop (Lake Johnson Park): Easy, 2.8 miles. Wheelchair accessible and dog-friendly (on leash), this paved trail winds through woods, along the lake, and across a dam. It connects to the Walnut Creek Greenway Trail. Relax afterward at the covered pavilion with scenic lake views.
Let's Get Adventurous: Moderate Trails
Honeycutt Creek Greenway (Honeycutt Park): Moderate, 5.2 miles. Dog-friendly (on leash), this trail starts suburban but transitions to a peaceful, wooded path leading to Falls Lake. During hunting season, wear a reflective orange vest provided at trailheads for safety.
Company Mill Loop (William B. Umstead State Park): Moderate, 6 miles. Dog-friendly (on leash), this historic hike starts along Crabtree Creek, where you'll find remnants of an old dam before entering the looped section.
For the Experienced Hiker: Challenging Trails
Loblolly Trail (William B. Umstead State Park): Moderate-Hard, 6.4 miles. Popular with runners, this trail features roots, rocks, and can be muddy after rain. Wear sturdy shoes!
Keep Exploring! More Trails in Wake County
Ravenridge Mountains-to-Sea Trail: Moderate, 6.8 miles. Dog-friendly (on leash), this out-and-back route offers a taste of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail with scenic Falls Lake views.
Williamson Preserve to Neuse River Walk: Moderate, 8.3 miles. Dog-friendly (on leash), explore the Bailey and Sarah Williamson Preserve, teeming with wildflowers and turtles. Open daily from dawn to dusk.
Falls Lake Trail (Falls Lake State Recreation Area): Hard, 24.4 miles. Dog-friendly (on leash), this challenging trek along Falls Lake features a total elevation gain of 1,751 feet. Expect moderately rocky and root-filled terrain.
Durham County
Couch Mountain Trail (Duke Forest): Moderate, 1.8 miles. Explore broad paths filled with vibrant wildflowers in Duke Forest. Dog-friendly on a leash, but not wheelchair accessible.
Cole Mill Trail Loop to Bobbitt Hole Trail (Eno River State Park): Moderate, 2.4 miles. This dog-friendly (on leash) trail features the Bobbit Hole, a geological wonder with a mysterious history. See the remains of historic mills and a fraternity house foundation. Not wheelchair accessible.
Cox Mountain Trail (Eno River State Park): Moderate, 4.1 miles. Hike for phenomenal river views on this dog-friendly (on leash) trail. It leads through lush greenery to a suspension bridge over the Eno River.
American Tobacco Trail from Durham: Moderate, 21.9 miles. This expansive, mixed-terrain trail is partially wheelchair accessible with paved sections. Dogs and horses are allowed on certain portions. Find the trailhead near Durham Bulls Athletic Park. Explore various sights along the trail, including a lake and wildflower fields.
Gear Up for Your Hike
Make your adventure comfortable and enjoyable with the right gear:
Hydration: Pack a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout your hike.
Footwear: Choose sturdy hiking boots with good traction for uneven terrain.
Snacks: Pack plenty of energy-boosting snacks like granola bars, nuts, or trail mix.
Sun Protection: Wear sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
First-Aid Kit: Be prepared for minor injuries with a small first-aid kit.
With this guide, you're all set to explore the beauty of the Triangle's natural landscapes. So lace up your boots, grab your backpack, and hit the trails!