Check out these great spots around Wake Forest to take the family before the winter chill officially settles in. No need for a big outing—just bundle up, head outside, breathe some fresh air, and enjoy exploring! I’ve personally visited each one, so I can vouch for how easy and accessible they are. You can find all of them on Google Maps, though I included one helpful note about locating the Falls of Neuse Greenway trail.
Forest Ridge Park
I'm a sucker for a playground + nature walk combo. We hit the playground for a bit first and then wandered down the paved/gravel trail a short while.
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Mill Bridge Park
Other than the amphitheater where my daughter had a solo dance-off, the main attraction here is the paved greenway trail. It's great for a leisurely stroll with the kids. And easy enough for you if you're carrying a baby in a carrier (like me!)
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Carrol Joyner
I know that most people are probably familiar with this one, but this is my go-to spot for both playground and a nature walkabout. Sometimes we do the playground and sometimes we just run around the green space on the other side looking for mushrooms, climbing trees, and exploring the old buildings.
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Falls of Neuse Greenway
Just a simple easy greenway trail that goes for miles and miles. There are a couple of entrances. I personally like the trailhead at 12054 Old Falls of Neuse Rd, Wake Forest, NC 27587, but there is also a trail entrance further up at 9745 Fonville Rd, Wake Forest, NC 27587, which is closer to the dam and has a short dirt trail.
Wake Forest Reservoir Soft Trails
My 3-year old had so much fun at this one that she made me turn back around and do the trail again after we got back to the trailhead. There are a ton of good downed logs to balance and climb on!
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