Wake County Greenway

Rate this place

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Wake County Greenway is a system of interconnected trails spanning over 100 miles throughout Wake County, North Carolina.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The greenway offers visitors a scenic and recreational experience, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

There are several compelling reasons to visit the Wake County Greenway. Firstly, it provides a beautiful escape from the bustling urban areas, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in nature. The trails wind through lush forests, meadows, and wetlands, offering stunning views and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

One of the notable points of interest along the greenway is Lake Crabtree County Park. This park features a large lake where visitors can engage in various water activities like kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. Additionally, there are picnic areas, playgrounds, and hiking trails within the park, making it a perfect spot for a family outing.

Another interesting area to explore is the Neuse River Trail, which runs along the scenic Neuse River. This trail is popular among walkers, runners, and cyclists due to its flat terrain and picturesque views. Along the way, visitors can enjoy the tranquility of the river, observe diverse bird species, and even spot turtles and beavers.

The Wake County Greenway also offers historical sites worth exploring. For instance, visitors can visit the Historic Yates Mill County Park, which features an 18th-century restored gristmill, providing insights into the region's milling history. The park offers guided tours, educational programs, and opportunities to observe wildlife in its natural habitat.

Interesting facts about the Wake County Greenway include its diverse ecosystems, ranging from wetlands to hardwood forests. The greenway also serves as a vital corridor for migratory birds, contributing to the region's biodiversity. Moreover, the trails are designed to accommodate various recreational activities, including walking, running, cycling, and horseback riding.

The best time to visit the Wake County Greenway is during the spring and fall seasons when the weather is pleasant, and the foliage is vibrant. Springtime offers blooming wildflowers and birdsong, while autumn showcases the stunning colors of changing leaves. It is advisable to check the specific trail conditions and weather forecasts before planning a visit to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

To ensure accuracy, it is recommended to verify the information provided by consulting multiple independent sources, such as official websites of Wake County Parks, Greenway associations, and local tourism authorities.

       

Weather Forecast

Park & Land Designation Reference

National Park
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
View more

Featured Parks