SAL’S BRANCH TRAIL IN UMSTEAD STATE PARK GOOD FOR ALL LEVELS

This is one of North Carolina’s most visited state parks and our favorite of the parks in Raleigh – it’s literally a natural oasis surrounding three man made lakes.

Sal’s Branch Trail is an easy to moderate 2.8 mile loop trail good for all fitness levels through the woods with lake views about half way. Dogs can use this trail too but must be kept on leash!

You walk a short way along the trail, then cross through the extended car parking area and then the service road before heading into the woods following the “orange circles” as markers.

HIKING THE TRAIL

This trail would be more like a walk than a hike, with gentle rises and falls in elevation and nothing too strenuous.

The lake was a nice place to relax for a few minutes, take some photos, and talk about coming back here with our inflatable stand-up paddle boards and get out on the water for a different perspective.

At the lake you can fish, kayak or paddle board, but swimming is not allowed.

When you come out of the woods to the lake, there's a sign directing you back onto Sal’s Branch Trail to continue the loop.

It was overall a nicely maintained and clean trail and a great starting point for when you visit William Umstead State Park – you get the woods and the lake!

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