If there’s one thing we could use more of lately, it’s time in nature. Stress, anxiety, and uncertainty have been overwhelming this year, and getting a breath of fresh air can help make all the difference. Thankfully, for residents of our Cary apartments, there are gorgeous and relaxing parks, preserves, and trails, all within a short drive.
No matter if you’re into heart-pumping outdoor recreation or a leisurely stroll amongst the trees, you’re sure to find something fun to do outside when you live at The Reserve at Cary Park.
Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve
Experience nature trails, scenic views, and wildlife watching at Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve. The 140-acre preserve sits along Swift Creek and boasts an abundance of eastern hemlock trees and other mountain flora. Take a walk along the 3 miles of trails with mulched paths, wooden boardwalks, and stairs that wind through trees, creeks, and ridges with incredible views.
Don’t forget to stop at the Stevens Nature Center where you can experience interactive and educational exhibits about the nature and history of the region. They also provide nature interpretation and educational classes as well. Visit the website for details.
American Tobacco Trail
Less than a 20-minute drive from our apartments in Cary is the American Tobacco Trail. Open to walkers, runners, cyclists, dog-walkers, and horseback riders, the rail-trail project spans a whopping 23 miles. The trail runs along an abandoned railroad bed which was originally built in the 1970s for the American Tobacco Company. The entire route runs 6.5 miles in Wake County, 4.7 miles in Chatham County, and 11.4 miles in Durham county—each trail varying from gravel to pavement.
View the trail map and learn more about the history of the ATT on its website.
Fred G. Bond Metro Park
With an impressive 310-acres, Fred G. Bond Metro Park is the largest municipal parks in Wake County and the most popular park in Cary. A sanctuary in the middle of town, visitors can enjoy 4.2 miles of trails, athletic fields, and Bond Lake—a man-made lake which is open to fishing and boating.
Reopening soon is the park’s community center, boathouse, and challenge course. Stay up-to-date on the park’s website.
William B. Umstead State Park
Just over 15-minutes from our Cary apartments is the outdoor haven of William B. Umstead State Park. Visitors of the park will find over 20 miles of hiking trails ranging from short, casual strolls to extensive hikes in the forest. There are also multi-use trails that allow horses and bikes as well. The expansive park has three man-made lakes where guests are encouraged to go fishing and boating. The largest lake, Big Lake, is 55-acres, while both Sycamore and Reedy Creek lakes are approximately 25-acres each.
Learn more about picnic areas, camping reservations, and more at the state park’s website.
Jordan Lake State Recreation Area
Also only 15 minutes away from The Reserve at Cary Park is the Jordan Lake State Recreation Area. Hiking, boating, and fishing are the main activities that are popular at the 14,000-acre reservoir and along its shorelines. Visitors can enjoy seven swim beaches, 14 miles of easy hiking trails, and more than 1,000 campsites. Expect to catch sight of a bald eagle or osprey as well.
Make reservations, view trail maps, and learn about the ecology of the park on its website.
Fun and fresh air abound when you live at our Cary apartments. There are so many natural places of beauty within a short drive from your home. Stop by The Reserve at Cary Park today and find out why you’ll love calling it home.