THE LOBLOLLY TRAIL IN UMSTEAD STATE PARK

 Apart from our beloved Lake Johnson nature trail, Loblolly now has to be another favorite, especially if you want to go deep into a forest!

This out and back trail is 2.7 miles in total, but we turned it into a loop trail by combining it with the Reedy Creek Multi-use trail to make it even more interesting and beautiful. 

Enter Umstead State Park at the Reedy Creek entrance via Harrison Ave and I-40. Head to the northeast corner of the parking lot to get to the Loblolly trailhead.

HOW TO GET TO THE LOBLOLLY TRAIL

Generally rated as a moderate hike, this trail took us around two hours, but we stopped to take a lot of photos and videos!

HIKING THE LOBLOLLY TRAIL LOOP

We found this an easy trail, but if you’re not used to hiking, be prepared for inclines, and natural paths that include plenty of tree roots, and stone crossings over creeks.

It starts out rather flat and you’ll pass the interesting Young Cemetery, one of several old cemeteries in the park.

Soon the trail opens up and unveils the beautiful man-made Reedy Creek Lake. It was so picturesque with a moody sky threatening storms and the vibrant green of the forest foliage surrounding it.

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