Annie Louise Wilkerson MD Nature Preserve is a 157-acre protected natural area located in Raleigh, North Carolina. The preserve features several hiking trails, picnic areas, and a variety of wildlife habitats, such as wetlands, forests, and fields. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, fishing, and nature photography.
One of the main points of interest at the preserve is the 1.25-mile Wilkerson Nature Trail, which winds through the woods, along a creek, and over several boardwalks. Along the trail, visitors can observe a variety of plant and animal species, such as wildflowers, ferns, beavers, and herons. The preserve also features an amphitheater, a butterfly garden, and a nature center that hosts educational programs and events.
Interesting facts about the preserve include its history as a former tobacco farm that was donated to the city of Raleigh in 1991 by Dr. Annie Louise Wilkerson, the first female physician in Raleigh. The preserve is also home to several rare and endangered species, such as the red-cockaded woodpecker, the eastern box turtle, and the American black bear.
The best time to visit the preserve is in the spring and fall when the weather is mild, and the flora and fauna are most active. However, the preserve is open year-round, and each season offers unique opportunities to explore and experience the natural beauty of the area.