William B. Umstead State Park North Carolina
A sprawling 5,579-acre woodland oasis near Raleigh, offering miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, plus serene lakes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful trails, fewer crowds
William B. Umstead State Park North Carolina
Best Time
Peaceful trails, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sprawling 5,579-acre woodland oasis near Raleigh, offering miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, plus serene lakes.
"It has a good range of beginner and advanced trails but there could be more. Overall good and a must-visit if you are in NC."
Pack Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and energized on the trails! Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
With miles of trails, good walking or hiking shoes are essential for exploring Umstead State Park.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Chainsaw Art Tree
Near Sycamore Road parking lot
A massive fallen oak transformed into intricate animal carvings by skilled artists. A unique, must-see roadside attraction.
Lake and Dam Views
Various points along trails
Discover serene man-made lakes and the Umstead Dam, offering tranquil waterscapes and peaceful picnic spots.
Extensive Trail Network
Throughout the park
Explore over 20 miles of diverse trails, from easy loops to more challenging terrain, perfect for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds
Trail Variety & Pet Policy
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and energized on the trails! Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
With miles of trails, good walking or hiking shoes are essential for exploring Umstead State Park.
Check Trail Maps
Familiarize yourself with the park map to navigate trails and find specific points of interest like the chainsaw art.
Pet-Friendly Adventures
Leash your furry friends and enjoy the trails together! Umstead is a great spot for dogs. +1
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and energized on the trails! Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
With miles of trails, good walking or hiking shoes are essential for exploring Umstead State Park.
Check Trail Maps
Familiarize yourself with the park map to navigate trails and find specific points of interest like the chainsaw art.
Pet-Friendly Adventures
Leash your furry friends and enjoy the trails together! Umstead is a great spot for dogs. +1
Look for Wildlife
While some visitors report seeing little wildlife on main trails, keep an eye out in more secluded areas.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Umstead State Park for its extensive, well-maintained trails and natural beauty, offering a peaceful escape close to Raleigh. While some note limited wildlife sightings on main paths, the unique chainsaw art and serene lakes are consistent highlights. It's a highly recommended free destination for outdoor recreation.
"Great park for hiking 🥾 with a multitude of sights to see 👀. There is a waterfall of sorts near where sycamore trail enters its big loop that is a bit out of the way but a worth while trek.
It has a good range of beginner and advanced trails but there could be more. Overall good and a must-visit if you are in NC"
Bre
"Free entry, the 2.8ish mile loop that starts/ends at the welcome center/ranger station has a good mix of relatively light-to-moderate terrain, and a lake to see (no area to walk around the perimeter of the lake per se). Short drive from the city center, a decent amount of parking spots, but I can see it be packed during peak hours."
Alex Kravtsov
"Went to Raleigh because my wife had a work type workshop, and I had like six hours to kill. I chose to spend my whole day here and absolutely loved it. Peaceful, beautiful, and fun trails. I got lucky enough to visit when I did because I was told the carved log was being taken due to it degrading. It was still beautiful. I would love to visit the park again and do other trails I missed out on."
mike taylor
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
William B. Umstead State Park is conveniently located just minutes from downtown Raleigh. You can reach it by car via I-40 West or US-70 West. Several parking lots are available throughout the park, with the main visitor center and ranger station being a common starting point.
Currently, public transportation options directly to Umstead State Park are limited. Driving is the most common and convenient way to access the park.
The park has multiple access points. The most popular entrances are off of Reedy Creek Road and Harrison Avenue, leading to various parking areas and trailheads. +1
Yes, ample parking is available at designated lots throughout the park. However, these can fill up quickly during peak hours, especially on weekends. Arriving early is recommended.
While there are bike paths within the park, direct bike routes from downtown Raleigh might be limited. It's more common for visitors to drive and then bike within the park's multi-use trails.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, William B. Umstead State Park offers free entry to all visitors. You can enjoy its trails, lakes, and natural beauty without any admission cost.
The park is generally open from 8:00 AM to sunset daily. It's always a good idea to check the official North Carolina State Parks website for any specific seasonal hours or closures.
Advance booking is not required for general park entry. You can visit anytime during operating hours. However, if you plan to use specific facilities like group picnic areas, reservations might be necessary.
The park occasionally hosts events, such as the 'First Day Hike' in January. Keep an eye on the park's official calendar or social media for announcements.
Yes, Umstead State Park offers camping facilities. Reservations are typically required and can be made in advance.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Popular trails include the Sycamore Trail Loop, Reedy Creek/Loblolly Loop, and the Graylyn Multiuse Trail. The park offers over 20 miles of trails for various skill levels. +3
While not grand waterfalls, there is a small cascade or 'waterfall of sorts' near where the Sycamore Trail enters its big loop, which is considered a worthwhile trek by some visitors.
While some visitors have reported seeing limited wildlife on heavily trafficked trails, the park is home to various birds, deer, and other small animals. More secluded areas might offer better viewing opportunities.
Absolutely! Umstead State Park features multi-use trails suitable for biking, offering a great way to explore the park's expansive woodlands. +1
The park has three man-made fishing lakes. Boating is generally limited to non-motorized craft like canoes or kayaks on designated lakes, and fishing is permitted with a valid North Carolina fishing license.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants located directly within Umstead State Park. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own food and enjoy picnics at designated areas.
Umstead State Park has several picnic tables and pavilions scattered throughout the park, often located near parking areas and trailheads, providing scenic spots for a meal.
Given its proximity to Raleigh, you'll find a wide array of dining options in the city. Nearby towns also offer various cafes and restaurants.
Grilling is generally not permitted within the park to ensure safety and preserve the natural environment. Picnicking is the recommended way to enjoy food outdoors.
Food trucks are not a regular feature within the park. It's best to plan your meals in advance or visit nearby eateries.
📸 📸 Photography
The chainsaw art tree is a unique subject. The lakes, wooded trails, and scenic overlooks offer beautiful natural backdrops for photography.
Yes, the park's diverse landscape, including forests, lakes, and open areas, provides excellent opportunities for landscape photography, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Drone usage is typically restricted in North Carolina State Parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. It's best to check the park's specific regulations regarding drones.
The most notable art installation is the impressive chainsaw art carved from a fallen oak tree, which is a popular spot for photos.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the best lighting for photography, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Many trails are pet-friendly, so families can bring their dogs along for the adventure. The unique chainsaw art is also a hit with children, adding an element of surprise and wonder to the visit. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and water, and consider a scavenger hunt if available to keep the kids engaged.
🚶♀️ Solo Hikers & Nature Lovers
+1Weekday mornings are particularly recommended for solo visitors looking to avoid crowds and fully immerse themselves in the park's tranquility. The diverse scenery, from dense forests to open lake views, provides a constantly changing and engaging environment for a reflective hike.
🐶 Dog Owners
Remember to always keep your dog on a leash, pick up after them, and ensure they have enough water, especially on warmer days. The park's natural setting provides plenty of scents and sights to keep your dog stimulated and happy.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Umstead's Trails
Many trails are multi-use, meaning they are shared by hikers, bikers, and equestrians. It's important to be mindful of others and follow trail etiquette. Some trails, like the Graylyn Multiuse Trail, are wider and better suited for shared use. Visitors often recommend checking the park map to plan their route and discover hidden gems, such as the small waterfall near the Sycamore Trail's loop.
For a more relaxed experience, shorter loops like the Oak Rock Trail (.6 miles) or Potts Branch Trail (1.3 miles) are perfect for families with young children. The park's well-maintained paths ensure a pleasant hiking experience, regardless of your fitness level.
The Unique Chainsaw Art
+1This art piece is a testament to creative repurposing and has become a popular, albeit temporary, landmark. Visitors often describe it as "cool" and "beautiful," even as it naturally degrades over time. The trek to see the art is about a mile round trip on wide gravel roads, making it accessible for most visitors. It's often marked by purple trail signs on the park map.
While the art is a highlight, it's important to note that its condition may change due to natural weathering. However, its presence adds an unexpected artistic dimension to the park's natural beauty, making it a memorable stop for many.
Umstead's Lakes and Water Features
While you can't walk around the entire perimeter of the lakes, certain trails offer scenic overlooks and access points. The Umstead Dam is another notable feature, where water flows gently, adding to the park's natural charm. These water bodies are not only visually appealing but also contribute to the park's ecosystem, supporting various forms of aquatic life.
Fishing is permitted in these lakes, provided you have a valid North Carolina fishing license. Non-motorized boating, such as kayaking or canoeing, may also be an option on designated lakes, adding another layer of recreation for visitors looking to enjoy the water.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit