Outdoors

Best parks to see fall leaves in the Triangle

From the extensive trails of William B. Umstead State Park to the artistic landscapes of the North Carolina Museum of Art Park, explore the top spots to witness the changing colors of the leaves.
Posted 2023-11-10T19:26:03+00:00 - Updated 2023-11-13T17:07:56+00:00
Where to see fall leaves in the Triangle

The Triangle region of North Carolina is known for its beautiful fall foliage, and there are many great parks to enjoy the changing colors of the leaves. Here are a few of the best:

William B. Umstead State Park

Umstead Big Lake a place to see fall leaves
Umstead Big Lake a place to see fall leaves

The park has over 20 miles of hiking trails, so you can find a trail that's perfect for your fitness level and interests. Some of the best trails for seeing fall foliage include the Sals Branch Trail, the Sycamore Creek Trail and the Hemlock Bluffs Trail.

Eno River State Park

Umstead Park
Umstead Park

Eno River State Park is another great place to see fall leaves in the Triangle. The park has over 27 miles of hiking trails, as well as a few miles of canoe and kayak trails. Some of the best trails for seeing fall foliage include the Cox Mountain Trail, the Holden's Mill Trail and the Cole Mill Trail.

Lake Johnson Park

Autumn leaves in the Triangle
Autumn leaves in the Triangle

Lake Johnson Park is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. The park has a 2.5-mile paved trail that circles the lake, as well as several unpaved trails that lead through the woods. The park is also home to a variety of other amenities, including a playground, a picnic area and a fishing pier.

North Carolina Museum of Art Park

North Carolina Museum of Art in the fall
North Carolina Museum of Art in the fall

The North Carolina Museum of Art Park is a beautiful place to see fall leaves. The park has a variety of gardens and sculptures, as well as several paved trails that are perfect for walking. The park also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including the Fall for the Arts Festival, which takes place in October.

Hemlock Bluffs Nature Park

Driving to see Fall Leaves in the Triangle
Driving to see Fall Leaves in the Triangle

Hemlock Bluffs Nature Park is a smaller park, but it's a great place to see fall leaves. The park has a 1.5-mile paved trail that winds through the woods and past a waterfall. The park also has a boardwalk that overlooks the Eno River.

Other parks to consider

  • Bond Park (Cary)

  • Crabtree Creek Greenway (Raleigh)

  • Shelley Lake Park (Raleigh)

  • Yates Mill Park (Raleigh)

  • Dorothea Dix Park (Raleigh)

  • Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area (Hillsborough)

No matter which park you choose, you're sure to enjoy the fall foliage in the Triangle. Just be sure to dress appropriately for the weather and to bring plenty of water.

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