Celebrate the Warmer Weather by Hiking with Your Dog: 5 Great Places to Hike with Your Dog in the Raleigh Area
Spring has officially sprung in Raleigh! With this season comes more time spent outdoors and more playtime for you and your pet. One of the best ways to get out and get exercise with your furry friend is to go on hikes around the area. We have compiled a list of five places you can take your pet on a walk around the Raleigh area:
Umstead: Here you will find an extensive network of hiking and multi-use trails. At William B. Umstead State Park there are trailheads on both sides of the park which are accessible from Interstate 40 and US 70. There are three man-made lakes throughout the park, the largest is Big Lake, perfect for cooling your doggy down on those hot days. At both access areas, picnic grounds surround shelters with fireplaces that can be reserved for picnicking and frolicking. This park has all you would need for a day in the sun with your pet pal. For more information on what this park has to offer visit: https://www.ncparks.gov/william-b-umstead-state-park
Falls Lake: Falls Lake State Recreation Area is a collective of seven access areas scattered around the shoreline of this undeveloped, 12,000-acre reservoir. There are five swim beaches in the recreation area that you and your pet can enjoy. The Beaverdam access offers a network of mountain hiking/biking trails that are the perfect scenic location for enjoying the outdoors. The Mountains-to-Sea State Trail winds through parts of the recreation area and is a centerpiece in a network of hiking trails. You will not be at a loss for variety at this park. To learn more about Falls Lake, please check out: https://www.ncparks.gov/falls-lake-state-recreation-area
Lake Johnson Park: Lake Johnson Park comprises more than 300 acres of land surrounding the lake of 150+ acres. The lake/park offers greenway trails that are spectacular for taking your best furry friend out on a beautiful day. The lake is the perfect place to relax and cool off after walking in the sun through the winding paths. In addition, there are many open areas where you can play Frisbee, catch or just run free! You will enjoy every second at Lake Johnson Park. To learn more about how to experience this outdoor space, please visit: https://www.visitnc.com/listing/lake-johnson-park
Eno River State Park: Eno River State Park, like its name, flows near urban areas of Durham and Orange counties with five scattered access areas, each just minutes from town amenities. The Eno River’s waters roll past mature forests, historic mill and home sites. The park offers nearly 30 miles of trails along a swift, shallow stream that is popular with those wanting to take in the scenery or take a dip in the cooling waters. To learn more about this park, go to: https://www.ncparks.gov/eno-river-state-park
Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area: Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area offers a quick escape into nature with its three miles of trail, that guide you along riverside forests, bluffs reaching to the highest point in the area and mountain laurel and rhododendron thickets. Visitors can wade in the shallows of the Eno River. Picnic grounds supply a grassy lawn and large, shading oaks perfect for romping and playing with your furry friends. Between the beautiful waters and lush nature views, you will love every moment you spend in this outdoor paradise. To find out how you can experience this location, visit: https://www.ncparks.gov/occoneechee-mountain-state-natural-area
These are just a few of the spectacular places you can take your pet to enjoy the outdoors. From the trails that wind through the scenes of nature and canopies of trees, to the cool flowing waters surrounding the areas, you will never lack the beauty and enjoyment. Visit any one of these parks to learn more about how you can spend a day in the sun with your pet.