Best Hiking In Raleigh, NC
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The Doirons
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RankNC's Top Picks
2. Lake Johnson Park
Raleigh
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a leisurely hike at Lake Johnson Park. This urban oasis offers several miles of scenic trails winding around the tranquil lake and through wooded areas.
3. Neuse River Trail
Raleigh
Embark on a picturesque hike along the Neuse River Trail, a 27-mile greenway stretching from Falls Lake Dam to the Wake/Johnston County line.
The trail offers stunning views of the Neuse River, lush forests, and wetlands, providing hikers with a peaceful and scenic escape from the city.
Enjoy walking, running, or cycling along this multi-use trail, which also features several access points and parking areas.
4. Shelley Lake Park
Raleigh
Experience the beauty of Shelley Lake Park with its scenic loop trail encircling the tranquil lake.
This family-friendly trail offers accessible hiking opportunities for all skill levels, with picturesque views of the lake and surrounding woodlands.
Hikers can also enjoy birdwatching, fishing, and picnicking in this serene natural setting just minutes from downtown Raleigh.
5. Blue Jay Point County Park
Raleigh
Explore the natural wonders of Blue Jay Point County Park with its network of hiking trails winding through forests, meadows, and along the shores of Falls Lake.
6. Durant Nature Preserve
Raleigh
Discover the diverse ecosystems of Durant Nature Preserve with its network of hiking trails meandering through forests, wetlands, and streams.
This hidden gem offers peaceful and scenic hiking opportunities, with trails suitable for all skill levels.
Hikers can enjoy birdwatching, wildlife observation, and nature photography in this tranquil natural area in the heart of Raleigh.
7. Annie Louise Wilkerson, MD Nature Preserve Park
Raleigh
Immerse yourself in nature at Annie Louise Wilkerson, MD Nature Preserve Park, a 157-acre natural area featuring hiking trails, educational exhibits, and diverse habitats.
Explore the preserve’s network of trails, which wind through forests, meadows, and along streams, offering opportunities to observe native plants and wildlife.
Hikers can enjoy peaceful surroundings and stunning views of the natural landscape in this hidden gem tucked away in northwest Raleigh.
8. Raleigh Greenway System
Raleigh
Experience the beauty of Raleigh’s greenway system, offering miles of paved and unpaved trails for hiking, walking, and cycling throughout the city.
Explore scenic routes along creeks, rivers, and through wooded areas, providing opportunities to connect with nature and enjoy outdoor recreation close to home.
The Raleigh Greenway System provides convenient hiking options with scattered access points citywide for outdoor enthusiasts.
9. Historic Yates Mill County Park
Raleigh
Step back in time and explore the history of North Carolina’s agricultural heritage at Historic Yates Mill County Park in Raleigh.
The park offers historic exhibits and a variety of scenic hiking trails through woodlands, wetlands, and along Lake Wheeler.
Hikers can enjoy birdwatching, wildlife observation, and learning about the natural and cultural history of the area while exploring the park’s picturesque trails.
10. Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve
Raleigh
Explore Hemlock Bluffs Preserve with its unique Eastern Hemlock stand and diverse plant and animal species.
Explore the preserve’s network of hiking trails, which wind through lush forests, rocky bluffs, and along meandering streams.
Hikers revel in tranquil surroundings, scenic vistas, and rare plant and wildlife sightings in southwest Raleigh’s serene natural area.
Conclusion
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