Lake Johnson Waterfront Walk
Make a simple walk feel like a small escape with water views and wooded paths.
Parks and outdoor things to do around Raleigh
Choose your route before choosing your pace. A short lake loop, a sculpture walk and a state-park hike offer very different days outside.
Shelley Lake Art & Lakeside Walk
Look for public art as you make an easygoing lakeside escape in North Raleigh.
William B. Umstead State Park
Choose a woodland trail and make room for a quieter kind of Raleigh day.
Neuse River Greenway Stroll
Take a small section of Raleigh’s riverside greenway instead of tackling the whole route.
NC Museum of Art Park
Slow down among outdoor sculptures and trails at the Museum Park.
North Carolina Botanical Garden
Trade the rush for native plants, garden paths, and a little breathing room.
Water views without a big commitment
Lake Johnson has a paved east-side loop and natural trails to the west. Shelley Lake offers a shorter paved lakeside outing. Both work well for a walk you can keep simple; allow time to return before closing.
Go farther with a little preparation
Umstead has separate entrances and active trail construction, so use its current map. The Neuse River Greenway also has closure alerts. At the Botanical Garden, choose display gardens or consult trail information for a longer walk.
Before you go
Can I swim at Lake Johnson?
No. Swimming and wading in the lake are not allowed. Boat rentals are separate paid activities.
Are outdoor hours the same in November?
No. Some parks use shorter seasonal hours. Check the listing and official alerts rather than relying on a summer closing time.