Nature & Outdoors

Lady on a stand-up paddle board on a lake

Raleigh offers endless opportunities to bask in the beauty of nature and embrace the spirit of outdoor exploration.

One of our favorite things about living in Raleigh is that it feels like we live in a forest. It is called the City of Oaks for a reason.

It's so easy for you to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and reconnect to serenity. (Well let's be honest, Raleigh doesn't hustle and bustle too hard!)

From tranquil parks to greenway trails, our curated guide to nature and outdoor activities will help you find ways to unwind.

Paddle on calm lakes and hidden wetlands, breathe in the fresh pine-scented air, and immerse yourself in the lush greenery that surrounds Raleigh.

Don't forget to follow our social channels as we share new restaurant's we discover across the city AND subscribe to our email newsletter - they get the tips first! We can explore Raleigh together!

All Nature & Outdoor Articles

Mother and daughter on stand up paddle board in swamp waters

Hidden Gem Near Raleigh: Paddling Robertson Millpond Preserve

Your first thought upon arriving at Robertson Millpond Preserve will be, “are you sure there […]

A person standing next to a body of water

Don’t Miss The Bond Lake Park Loop Trail

I’ve said it many times, one of our favorite things about living in the Raleigh […]

A large body of water surrounded by trees

Don’t Miss Bond Lake Walk at Fred G Bond Metro Park, Cary

I’ve said it many times, one of our favorite things about living in the Raleigh […]

Man paddling a paddle board on a lake surrounded by forest

15 Top Lakes Near Raleigh NC (for Adventure + Relaxation)

Ahh, lake life! We grew up on the beaches of Australia but have fallen in […]

Mom and two daughters walking a trail in the woods

25 Fantastic Raleigh Trails (for Hiking, Biking, Running, or a Gentle Stroll)

In case you don’t know, Raleigh has a vast trail system so allow me to […]

Girl standing in a rose garden taking photos

6 Lovely Gardens in Raleigh (and one amazing garden nearby!)

We’re fortunate to have access to several gorgeous gardens in Raleigh that are home to […]

A person standing next to a tree in a forest

Hiking the EASY Pott’s Branch Trail, Umstead State Park

Now the weather is warmer and the trees are in full lush, we’re on a […]

A person sitting in a forest looking at stone bridge and river

Hiking the Loblolly Trail (plus a loop) in Umstead State Park

You know how sometimes you just scratch your head and wonder how on earth you […]

Hiking the 7 Mile Sycamore Trail: Umstead State Park, Raleigh

We love that William B Umstead State Park is only a 15-minute drive from downtown […]

Outdoor Events

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Hiking the Loblolly Trail

Don't miss one of our favorite trails in Umstead - the Loblolly trail

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