William B Umstead State Park - Reedy Creek Entrance. Umstead is a great place to take a walk in the woods without having to go too far. The Reedy Creek access is off of N. Harrison Ave. There are multiple trails and the best part is most of the park is shaded. I love Loblolly trail and the loop from the parking lot, reedy creek lake and back to the parking lot is little over 4 miles. This trail is a great workout. If you need something more challenging, I would recommend Company Mill trail which is steep and long. Please watch your step at all times as there is plenty of wildlife, tree roots, rocks, etc.
It has a Great Lake and true wood-like experience. Unlike most other parks, it is very huge. The only flag is that it has signs warning of car break-ins don’t leave valuables in your car.
William B Umstead State Park - Reedy Creek Entrance. My husband and I hiked the Company Mill trail but took the shortcut on the Reedy Creek M.U.T. to knock off part of the distance. He could've gone a lot faster and further, but he had me tagging along. I started out slowing us down by taking pix of all the beautiful scenery, but halfway through, I had to keep stopping to catch my breath and rest. Hubby is an avid track runner and I'm a sedentary TV watcher so what else would you expect? The trail was challenging due to the elevation changes and watching your step on the trail itself. Lots of rocks and roots to avoid tripping. I personally should've chosen an easier trail but it really was beautiful out there!
Great park! It feels like you’re miles away with plenty of trail and outdoors to look at. The lodge forest service agent was extremely helpful in showing the map and locations of entrances, and ideas for short or long hikes. Was a great way to spend a couple hours!
Not very high up on my favorite places to hike in the Triangle area, but I can’t argue against the convenience of this location and the length of trails. There are more scenic places in the Triangle with more diverse flora and fauna, but this location is good for working out and taking a casual walk. Since it is a popular spot for outdoor activities, parking does get busy during peak hours.
The only place I have found in the area where you can walk and not be surrounded by sewers. Lots of bugs, otherwise GREAT! Found a random cemetery, too. There are quite a few people. The further in you get, the less company you will have. Restrooms: Decent.
Love this state park! Right nested in the heart of North Western Raleigh is this beautiful state park. Several lakes, streams, and probably over a combined 100 miles of trail combos. Great for mountain biking, hiking, or fishing.
Amazing park with lots of trails to hike and bike. Trails are well maintained, felt wonderful while we walked on Sycamore Trail to Chainsaw log. It has dams, lakes, trails. Park is well equipped with parking facilities, restrooms and benches.
Great park, plenty of hiking trails. Beautiful views and peaceful atmosphere. Nice picnic areas with tables and grills. Plenty of parking, dog friendly and entry is free.
This review is for the nature photography enthusiasts. I am a nature photographer and have only been to this park one time. I went down sycamore trail to see the carved log and off on a wooded path to a stream that led to the smaller lake, then back up through the campground back to the parking area. The main paths are paved and good for walking, jogging or cycling. the off path wooded trails are a bit more uneven and because of the vast area it is easy to feel lost, though eventually a marker will pop up and assure you that you are still on the right track. For photographers specifically I do not recommend this park for bird and wildlife photos in the Summer since there is not a lot to see in my opinion. I will retry during the Fall to see if there is a difference. Just remember this park is huge and what I saw was probably less than 10% of what it has to offer. If you check it out the best bet is to stop at the visitor center and ask for a recommendation on what part of the park to see for the best wildlife options.
