Walking Trails in or around Wake Forest

Wake Forest, NC, is home to some beautiful walking trails that allow you to enjoy the area's natural beauty and get some exercise in the process. Whether you’re looking for a short stroll or a more challenging hike, here are some of the best walking trails around/near Wake Forest:

1. E. Carroll Joyner Park

This scenic park, located in the heart of Wake Forest, is one of the town's hidden gems. With over 117 acres of open space, E. Carroll Joyner Park offers a mix of paved and unpaved walking trails, perfect for a leisurely walk or a jog. The trails meander through meadows and wooded areas, with plenty of opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying the peaceful environment. There are restored old farm buildings to go through and a great playground for kids. You will always see photographers there, as it is probably the most popular place in Wake Forest for family photos.

2. Falls Lake Trail

Falls Lake State Recreation Area offers one of the most picturesque walking trails near Wake Forest. The Falls Lake Trail is a multi-use trail that spans more than 20 miles, with portions that pass through serene forests, along the lake, and near several wildlife habitats. You can enjoy scenic views, peaceful lakeside strolls, and glimpses of local wildlife, including deer and various bird species. It's perfect for both walking and hiking!

3. Wake Forest Greenway System

The Wake Forest Greenway System includes several interconnected trails that provide great walking routes within the town. Some of the best trails within the system are:

• Smith Creek Greenway: This is one of the more popular trails in Wake Forest, offering a flat, paved path that stretches for over 4 miles, making it great for a relaxed walk, run, or bike ride.
• Neuse River Greenway: Running through the heart of Wake Forest, this trail connects to the Neuse River and provides beautiful views of the river and surrounding natural areas. It's a peaceful trail ideal for an afternoon walk or jog.

4. Historic Yates Mill County Park Trails

Located just a short drive from Wake Forest, Yates Mill County Park features several short hiking trails that provide a great opportunity to explore nature. The trails wind through lush forests and wetlands and offer great birdwatching opportunities. The park also has a historic gristmill that you can explore once you’ve finished your walk. The trails here are easy to moderate in difficulty, making them perfect for a family outing.

5. Lake Johnson Park Trails

Though it’s technically located in Raleigh, Lake Johnson Park is just a short drive from Wake Forest and offers scenic walking trails around a picturesque lake. With over 5 miles of paved and natural trails, the park is a great place to enjoy a peaceful walk or hike. The trails offer stunning views of the lake, plenty of wildlife, and shaded areas perfect for relaxing.

6. Blue Jay Point County Park

This park, located on the shores of Falls Lake, is home to several scenic walking trails. The trails are relatively short, but they provide beautiful views of the lake, the surrounding forest, and a variety of wildlife. You’ll find paved and natural trails, making it easy to choose the path that best suits your needs. Blue Jay Point also has picnic areas and a playground, so it’s a great spot to enjoy a post-walk snack with your family.

7. Greenway Trail at Heritage Park

Heritage Park, located in the southern part of Wake Forest, features a short but lovely walking trail that’s perfect for a stroll or a jog. The trail is well-maintained, with plenty of shade from the surrounding trees. The park is also home to a historic house and features a playground, making it a great family-friendly spot for a walk.

8. Richland Creek Greenway

This lesser-known gem in Wake Forest is a peaceful and scenic walking trail that takes you through forests and along a creek. The Richland Creek Greenway is perfect for a quiet, nature-filled walk, and it’s less crowded compared to some of the other greenways in the area. The trail is mostly unpaved, making it a great spot for hiking and enjoying the tranquility of nature.

9. Umstead Park Trails - A Nature Lover’s Paradise

Umstead State Park, located just south of Wake Forest, is a favorite among local hikers and nature enthusiasts. The park features a wide range of trails, from easy, flat paths around the lake to more challenging hikes through wooded terrain. The Lakeside Trail offers stunning views of the serene Reedy Creek Lake, while the Company Mill Trail takes you deep into the forest. Whether you're looking for a short, relaxing walk or a more strenuous hike, Umstead is perfect for nature lovers!

10. Lake Lynn Trail

Located in Raleigh, Lake Lynn Trail is a lovely 1.5-mile paved loop around Lake Lynn. It's a relatively easy walk with beautiful views of the lake, perfect for a short, relaxing stroll. You can also enjoy some birdwatching and spot turtles and other wildlife along the way.