Umstead Park Lake

Open

Closed

$

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Raleigh

β€’

4.7
Umstead Park Lake offers scenic trails, calm waters for boating, and lush nature for a peaceful outdoor escape just outside Raleigh.

$

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πŸ“

Umstead Park Lake

Raleigh

$

Explore peaceful hiking, boating, and wildlife at Umstead Park Lake in Raleigh. Enjoy nature trails, a visitor center, and picnic spots just outside the city.

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About
4.7
(
120
)

Umstead Park Lake is a vast natural retreat featuring miles of hiking trails, boating options, and abundant wildlife. Visitors enjoy well-maintained paths, a visitor center with clean facilities, and scenic picnic spots surrounded by tall trees and babbling creeks.

What to Expect:

    🌲 Extensive hiking and horseback riding trails
    πŸš£β€β™‚οΈ Canoe and boat rentals available
    🐦 Opportunities for wildlife viewing and bird watching
    πŸ•οΈ Group camping and picnic shelters with grills and fireplaces

Important Information:

    – Multiple parking lots with visitor center amenities
    – Trails vary from easy walks to moderate hikes suitable for all levels
    – Some trails may be muddy after rain; prepare accordingly
    – No on-site dining or reservations required
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πŸ“ Local Insights

🚢 Scenic Trails: Hike Sal's Branch Trail for a peaceful, well-marked route that starts and ends near the Visitor Center.

πŸ›Ά Boat Ramp Perks: The newly installed boat ramp is popular in summer, perfect for water activities without leaving the city.

πŸ‚ Best in Fall: Visitors recommend visiting during fall for stunning leaf colors and crisp, calming air.

🦌 Wildlife Spotting: Bring binoculars to catch sight of local wildlife and enjoy birdwatching along quieter trails.

⏰ Hours

Monday: Open 24 hours

Tuesday: Open 24 hours

Wednesday: Open 24 hours

Thursday: Open 24 hours

Friday: Open 24 hours

Saturday: Open 24 hours

Sunday: Open 24 hours

πŸ‘‰ Best For

Hiking, boating, wildlife viewing, family outings

Umstead Park Lake

Raleigh, NC 27612
,
Raleigh
,
NC
27612

Review Sentiment

Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Visitors consistently praise Umstead Park Lake for its natural beauty, well-maintained trails, and peaceful environment. The hiking and boating opportunities, plus the visitor center facilities, enhance the experience. Some mention occasional mud and maintenance as minor downsides but overall sentiment remains very positive.
Last updated on
December 9th, 2025

From The preserve

Standout Dishes

Watersports Rentals &Β Experiences

The Selection

Accommodations

Course Stats

Angler’s Offerings

What You'll Find

Trails Access; Boating; Canoe Rental; Group Camping; Picnicking Shelters; Visitor Center; Fishing; Horseback Riding; Wildlife Viewing; Free Parking

πŸ“† Best Times to Visit

Early mornings and late afternoons offer quieter trails; summer afternoons see more boaters. Weekends attract families and hikers. Visit fall for peak scenic views.
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