Top picks from a local!
Are you looking for the best fall hiking, trails or walks near Raleigh, NC?
Yes? You’re in luck!
As a Raleigh local who’s constantly on the lookout for a scenic place to walk or hike, I’ve rounded up my favorite spots for fall in and near Raleigh.
I mean, I can’t keep these places to myself, right? I have to share them with you!
Feel free to share your adventures with me in my exclusive Facebook Group! I’d love to hear about your adventures! 🙂
Whether you’re aiming for a quick, city stroll or craving trails that make you feel miles away from civilization, these spots offer all the autumn vibes you’re looking for—right here in the Triangle!
Use this Table of Contents to Help you Get to Your Next Hike Faster!
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Raleigh
Let’s start with some of my favorites that are right in the city of Raleigh!
Yates Mill County Park
Hours:
Park Grounds and Trails: open every day from 8 a.m. to sunset.
Entrance fee:
Entrance to the Park is FREE!
About:
Yates Mill County Park is one of those places that lets you step straight back into North Carolina’s past, and I love getting lost in its rich history and planting my own two feet right next to the waters of this historic mill.
This beautifully preserved gristmill dates back to 1750! It’s the last operational mill left in Wake County, and was once the heart of the local farming community, grinding corn and wheat for more than 200 years.
Today, the park is a living tribute to that history, and wandering around, you can still see the impressive old mill stones, the rustic wooden mill building, and that giant water wheel that churns out a soothing waterfall effect from the dam.
It’s a place where history meets nature, perfect for those moments when you want a little escape—and maybe a few photo ops!
Location:
Believe it or not, Yates Mill County Park is just a quick 15-minute drive from downtown Raleigh. It always blows my mind to realize I’m so close to the city because, as soon as I step into the park, it feels like I’m miles away in a peaceful, hidden corner of nature.
Tucked away off Lake Wheeler Road, this spot is like a little retreat from city life, offering the perfect mix of scenic trails, quiet water views, and that magical old mill.
Type of Trails:
There are 3 trails to choose from at Yates Mill County Park:
- Millpond Trail: A scenic 1-mile loop around the pond with views of the historic mill and dam.
- Creekside Trail: A 0.8-mile trail that winds through the forest and along a peaceful creek—perfect for spotting wildlife.
- High Ridge Trail: A moderate 0.75-mile loop with wooded paths, great for a slightly more challenging hike.
Each trail offers something unique, whether you’re after history, nature, or just a peaceful walk through the woods. Perfect for a quick escape!
Unique Features:
Here are some unique features that I love that makes Yates Mill County Park stand out from other county parks:
- Historic Gristmill: The last operational, water-powered gristmill in Wake County, dating back to 1750.
- Working Water Wheel: A fully restored water wheel, offering a rare glimpse into North Carolina’s agricultural past.
- Millstone Displays: Original millstones on display, showing the craftsmanship and history of grain milling.
- Waterfall from the Dam: A picturesque waterfall effect from the mill dam, perfect for scenic photos and relaxation.
- Educational Exhibits: Interactive displays in the visitor center that dive into the history, ecology, and technology of the mill.
- Guided Tours & Milling Demonstrations: Seasonal tours and live milling demos that showcase the mill in action.
- Diverse Trails: Trails for all levels that offer views of the mill, pond, and surrounding wetlands, blending history and nature.
These features make Yates Mill a one-of-a-kind destination for history buffs and nature lovers alike!
Things to Know:
Parking is free, but it is a relatively small parking lot, so you may want to get there early on busy days in order ensure that you can find a spot!
Tours, events and demonstrations are available on select days. Check the Yates Mill web-site to see what’s going on while you’re there.
Looking for a place to stay when visiting Raleigh? Browse a list of properties that are closest to Yates Mill County Park by clicking here.
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Cary
Cary, NC, is a quaint but trendy town that directly boarders Raleigh to the West. It’s only minutes away from major Raleigh attractions, offering the perfect blend of suburban charm and easy access to the energy and amenities of the city.
Hemlock Bluffs
Hours:
Open from 9:00AM – 6:30PM
Entrance Fee:
FREE! There is no cost to enter.
About:
Hemlock Bluffs in Cary is a rare gem with towering hemlock trees and rugged bluffs that make you feel as if you’ve stepped into a mountain landscape—a unique sight in the otherwise flat terrain of the Triangle area.
It’s a park that I go to for personal hikes and I’ve even gone as a chaperone on field trips to Hemlock Bluffs when my kids were in school.
Location:
Although you feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere, Hemlock Bluffs is Located at 2616 Kildaire Farm Road, only a few minutes away from shopping and restaurants
Type of Trails:
There are three trails to choose from at Hemlock Bluffs.
- Swift Creek Loop Trail: A 0.8-mile loop with views of the creek and hemlock trees.
- Chestnut Oak Loop Trail: A 0.75-mile loop through oak woodlands and scenic overlooks.
- East Hemlock Loop Trail: A shorter 0.2-mile trail along the bluffs, offering unique mountain-like views.
Each trail provides a peaceful escape with a touch of mountain scenery right in Cary!
Unique Features:
Here are some unique features that I adore about this location and sets Hemlock Bluffs apart from other trails:
- Rare Eastern Hemlock Trees: A preserved habitat for these mountain-region trees, unusual in central North Carolina.
- Bluff Overlooks: Elevated bluffs offering scenic views of the surrounding forest and Swift Creek below.
- Stevens Nature Center: An educational center with exhibits about the local ecosystem, plants, and wildlife.
- Mountain-Like Landscape: A unique terrain with steep bluffs and dense, shaded trails that feel like a mountain escape in the Triangle.
- Birdwatching & Wildlife: A hotspot for spotting native birds, small mammals, and diverse plant life.
These features make Hemlock Bluffs a distinctive nature retreat within Cary!
Other Things to Know:
Parking is Free and the lot is small, but they do have a 2nd parking area that they open on the weekends or if needed if large groups come in the middle of the week.
Do you need a place to stay when visiting Cary? Click here to browse lodging options.
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Umstead Park Reedy Creek Entrance
Hours depend on the month. In the fall they are open from:
8AM-8PM in September and October.
8AM-6PM November
Entrance Fee:
There is no fee to use the park and trails.
Location:
Located just a quick drive from Raleigh with easy access off of HWY 40, Umstead State Park offers an incredible mix of history, nature, and adventure.
The Address Is:
2100 N. Harrison Ave., Cary, NC 27513
About:
The Reedy Creek Entrance at Umstead Park is currently one of my staple hiking spots. I tend to go at least once a week no matter the season.
I adore this walk no matter if I’m with my hiking group, by myself or if I take my trusty 4 legged friend for an adventure.
As a matter of fact, our hiking group from our North Carolina Traveler Facebook Group just recently met up for a hike on the Company Mill Trail!
The Reedy Creek entrance off Harrison Avenue brings you right into the heart of this expansive park, where you’ll find everything from:
rivers
foot bridges
scenic hiking trails
and multi-use paths
designed for
walking
horseback riding
and biking.
As you explore, you’ll come across unique historical markers, like an old cemetery and a stone bridge, remnants of the area’s past as farmland, milling and early settlements.
With trails that wind through dense forests, serene lakes, and even a few hidden historical gems, Umstead Park is a local favorite for anyone looking to experience North Carolina’s natural beauty and history, all in one place!
Be sure not to confuse the Reedy Creek Entrance at Umstead Park with the Umstead Park entrance on Glenwood Avenue in Raleigh—this park is massive, and the Reedy Creek and Glenwood entrances are quite a long hike apart!
Together, the two sides offer around 34.5 miles of hiking-only trails and 13 miles of multi-use trails, perfect for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
With over 34 miles of trails, Umstead Park is a favorite training ground for marathon runners looking to log serious miles in a scenic setting.
Types of Trails:
Here’s a quick breakdown of the trails accessible from the Reedy Creek Entrance:
- Company Mill Trail: A 5.8-mile loop through dense forests and along Crabtree Creek, featuring scenic views and moderate terrain. Once you cross the long bridge, there’s a peaceful area with a small, sandy beach and Rocks next to the river, a great place to sit, take a water break and enjoy the scenery. This is also a good turn around point if you don’t want to do the full loop. This is the trail to start on if you want to find the old stone bridge.
- Sycamore Trail: A 7.2-mile loop that offers a challenging hike with streams, rolling hills, and quiet wooded areas.
- Loblolly Trail: A 2.7-mile trail connecting the Reedy Creek side to the Crabtree Creek entrance, great for long-distance hikers. Only a short distance from the start of the trail you’ll find the old cemetery through the trees to the right.
- Reedy Creek Multiuse Trail: A 3.7-mile path for hikers, bikers, and horseback riders, winding through open fields and shady woods.
- South Turkey Creek Multiuse Trail: A 2.8-mile stretch with gentle slopes, perfect for those seeking a smooth, multi-use trail experience.
Each trail provides a unique way to explore Umstead’s natural beauty, from easy strolls to challenging workouts.
Unique Features:
Hidden History: Keep an eye out for an old stone bridge, old mill stones and a historic cemetery—little reminders of the area’s past that make your trek feel a bit like stepping back in time.
Trail Variety: At Umstead you’ve got options! With multi-use trails for biking, horseback riding, and hiking, you can mix things up and share the path with fellow adventurers on two wheels or four hooves.
Longer, Loopier Trails: If you’re up for a challenge, trails like Company Mill and Sycamore offer those satisfying, longer loops that make you feel like you’ve really earned that post-hike snack.
Scenic Variety: From bubbling creeks to shady forests and a sandy beach, the trails at the Reedy Creek entrance serve up a little bit of everything, so there’s always something new around the bend.
With these unique features, the Reedy Creek Entrance gives you plenty of reasons to lace up and get exploring!
Other Things to Know:
This trail is a local favorite, so while parking is usually fine on weekdays or quieter times, you’ll want to plan ahead once that gorgeous fall weather and vibrant colors start rolling in.
On weekends or peak hiking times, arriving early is your best bet for snagging a spot in the lot—trust me, you won’t want to miss out!
Need a place to stay when you’re visiting Cary? The Umstead Hotel and Spa is literally a 2 minute drive down the street from the Reedy Creek entrance.
Click here to browse other lodging options in Cary, NC
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Downtown Cary Park
Hours:
Open Daily from 7AM – 11PM
Entrance Fee:
There is no cost to enter the park.
Location:
327 S. Academy St.
Cary, NC 27511
Right in the heart of Downtown Cary, the brand-new Downtown Cary Park officially opened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on November 19th, 2023, and it’s quickly become a must-visit spot.
Surrounded by charming shops, cozy cafes, and a variety of restaurants, it’s the perfect spot to stroll, snack, and soak up the local scene.
Just a short walk from the Amtrak station, it’s also super convenient for those arriving by train, making it easy to jump right into all that Cary has to offer.
Whether you’re a day-tripper or a local, Downtown Cary Park brings fresh green spaces and plenty of charm to your day out in Cary!
About:
Downtown Cary Park, which will be a year old on Nov. 19th, 2024, is a vibrant new gathering spot where Cary’s community spirit shines.
With so much to see and do, it’s easy to make this park a regular stop.
Fall movie nights like Ghostbusters on the Great Lawn bring families and friends together under the stars, while seasonal festivals like Taste of Asia celebrate the area’s diverse cultural flavors.
For active visitors, there are Zumba and yoga sessions, and Market 317 in the Academy Pavilion offers refreshing snacks and drinks.
Shaded by the plaza’s trees that come alive with color in the fall, you’ll stroll by cute Halloween or Fall decorations along the trail. This area also features an interactive fountain—perfect for resting after a good walk.
Other Special Features of the Park Include:
Frantz Square is a highlight that pays tribute to Council member Don Frantz, whose years of service helped ignite the revitalization of Cary’s downtown.
If you’re a dog owner, don’t miss the Bark Bar next to the Barkyard dog park, where you can enjoy a drink while your pup plays.
The Nest Play Area is ideal for little adventurers, with cardinal-themed play structures, slides, and a splash pad.
The park also has a farmers market, community workshops, and even a unique puzzle swap for those looking to add a little brain-teaser to their visit!
An ice skating rink will be installed at the end of November!
From lively events to peaceful gardens, Downtown Cary Park is a fresh and inviting space where it’s easy to enjoy a stroll around the park. No doubt, if you’re like me, you’ll want to stay for more than just a fall walk!
Type of Trail: City Walk
Other Things to Know:
Parking in Downtown Cary is free, but space is limited. It’s a good idea to arrive early to allow time to find a parking spot.
Downtown Cary Park is part of the Downtown Cary Social District, where you can enjoy open alcoholic beverages as you explore.
They do have fire pits to keep you warm on chilly days!
Where to stay in Downtown Cary?
The closest hotel to the Downtown Cary Park is the Mayton Hotel, a historic property that is located directly next to the Downtown Cary park!
Click here to find other places to stay in Cary NC.
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Morrisville
Lake Crabtree
Hours:
Open from 8:00AM – Sunset
Entrance & Parking Fees:
FREE! There is no cost to enter or park.
About:
Lake Crabtree has quickly become one of my go-to spots for fall hiking, and it’s not hard to see why. Located in Morrisville, NC, just off Aviation Parkway and practically next door to Raleigh-Durham International Airport, it’s unbelievably convenient for a quick escape.
Yet, as soon as I step onto the trails, I feel like I’m in the middle of the countryside—far removed from the busy city life.
The park has over 16 miles of multi-use trails, with smooth terrain and minimal elevation, making it perfect for an easy stroll or a longer hike.
I love how versatile it is; some days, I take the 6-mile loop for a satisfying walk, and on others, I stick to the shorter lakeside paths for a quick dose of nature.
Walking along the lake, taking in the wild life and watching people enjoy the water is my favorite part.
There’s something so calming about the water, and I always keep an eye out for herons, turtles, and sometimes even an osprey.
And let’s talk about the sunsets. Finding good sunset spots in the Triangle can be tricky with all the trees, but Lake Crabtree delivers. Whether you’re relaxing on the lawn or finishing up a hike, the view over the lake is stunning and one of my absolute favorites in the area.
Other Special Features about the Park:
- Scenic Lake: A beautiful 520-acre lake perfect for enjoying nature and watersports.
- Smooth, Easy Terrain: Ideal for walkers of all levels, with minimal elevation changes.
- Water Activities: Opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, and fishing.
- Picnic Areas: Shelters, open lawns, and benches provide great spots for relaxing or picnicking. They are also available for rentals. I’ve taken my kids to birthday parties at Lake Crabtree, which made for fun events, especially the shelters near to the playground.
- Sunset Views: One of the best spots in the Triangle to catch a stunning sunset over the water. I’ve even hosted some sunset meditation get togethers with my friends at the lawn at Lake Crabtree at sunset wich made for an even more relaxing experience.
- Historical Ties: The area’s past as farmland adds a touch of history to its natural beauty.
- Family-Friendly: There is a playground where I took my kids to when they were little, a sand volley ball court, ample space for kite flying, casual strolls, and group outings.
- Location: The park is located at 1400 Aviation Parkway, just minutes from I-40 and the airport.
- Trails: Over 16 miles of trails, including a 6-mile loop and smaller lakeside paths. The trails are multi-use, so you might share the path with bikers.
- Accessibility: Trails are easy to moderate, with smooth paths and little elevation change—perfect for all fitness levels.
- Wildlife: The park’s wetlands make it a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers, with plenty of opportunities to see herons, turtles, and more.
- Amenities: Picnic shelters, open lawns, and benches provide plenty of spots to relax.
- Dog-Friendly: This is a great place to bring your dog for a hike. However, the trails are narrow, so it may be tricky if you have a reactive dog when it’s time to pass another canine on the trail.
If hiking isn’t your only goal, the park also offers kayaking, canoeing, paddle-boarding, and fishing. And yes, while the proximity to the airport is convenient, the best part is how peaceful it feels once you’re there. Lake Crabtree truly has it all—scenic trails, wildlife, and the kind of tranquility that keeps me coming back, season after season.
Type of Trail:
There are over 16 miles of trails, including a 6-mile loop and smaller lakeside paths and the Old Beech Nature Trail, a short loop that provides a self-guided environmental education experience. The trails are multi-use, so you might share the path with bikers.
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Apex
Apex Community Park, Lake Pine Loop
Hours:
Open Daily from 6:30AM – 10PM Year Round
Entrance Fee:
There is no cost to enter the park.
Location:
There are two park entrances:
Park Entrance: 2200 Laura Duncan Road
Lake Trail Entrance: 1808 Lake Pine Drive
Type of Trail:
2 mile Loop trail around a lake with some smaller off-shoot trails
About:
The Lake Pine Loop Trail at Apex Community Park holds a special place in my heart.
After my babies were born, this was my go-to spot to walk and shed the majority of my pregnancy weight.
With its smooth, paved path circling the 50-acre Lake Pine, it’s perfect for pushing strollers, riding a bike and letting little ones enjoy the fresh air.
The area feels safe, serene, and welcoming, making it ideal for families, cyclists, fitness enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a peaceful walk.
In the fall, this trail becomes even more magical with its annual Scarecrow Row.
Local businesses and community members create unique scarecrows displayed along a specific section of the path. It’s such a fun and festive touch for autumn!
There’s even a QR code where you can vote for your favorite scarecrow—just another reason to love this trail during the fall season.
Other Special Features About the Park:
- Trail Length: 2 miles, paved, and flat—easy for strollers, wheelchairs, and all fitness levels.
- Location: Part of Apex Community Park, accessible from Laura Duncan Road or Lake Pine Drive.
- Scenic Views: Stunning water views of Lake Pine and plenty of wildlife like birds and turtles to spot.
- Amenities: Restrooms, water fountains, picnic areas, benches, fishing pier, tennis courts and nearby playgrounds.
- Family-Friendly Fun: From scarecrow displays in the fall to year-round playgrounds and open spaces.
- Safety & Accessibility: A well-maintained and secure trail surrounded by housing communities that feels like a little haven in the heart of Apex.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely fall walk to admire the festive scarecrows or a reliable spot to connect with nature, this trail is an absolute gem—and one I’ll always hold close to my heart.
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Apex Nature Park
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Hours:
Open from 6:30AM -10PM
Entrance & Parking Fees:
FREE! There is no cost to enter or park.
About Apex Nature Park
I only started exploring Apex Nature Park this year, and it’s quickly become one of my favorite spots for a peaceful fall walk.
As a volunteer for the Orange County Animal Shelter’s Dog Day Out program, this park has been perfect for giving the shelter pups a fun outing.
While I can’t take the dogs into the designated dog park (rules are rules!), I’ve been impressed by its thoughtful layout and spacious design—it’s a paradise for furry friends.
Beyond the dog park, the trails here are perfect for enjoying the crisp fall air and colorful leaves, and they’re wide enough to make walking energetic pups a breeze.
Type of Trail(s)
- Multi-Use Trails: The trails are mostly paved and smooth, making them ideal for walkers, joggers, and even cyclists. They weave through the park’s scenic natural areas, so whether you’re taking a leisurely stroll or working up a sweat, the surroundings won’t disappoint.
- Disc Golf Course Trail: If you’re into disc golf, the 18-hole course doubles as an interesting walk through a pine forest. It’s a bit of a challenge but worth it for the fun and variety it adds.
Other Special Features and Things to Know
- Dog Park: Even though I can’t use it for the shelter dogs, the size and design are impressive. It’s divided into areas for small and large dogs, with plenty of shade and open space for them to run around.
- Outdoor Amphitheater: During warmer months, the amphitheater hosts free concerts and movies. It’s a great spot to unwind with friends or family.
- Picnic Areas: There are multiple picnic shelters, perfect for grabbing a snack after a walk.
- Playgrounds and Sports: The park also features a nature-themed playground, lighted tennis and pickleball courts, sand volleyball courts, and multipurpose fields—plenty of ways to stay active beyond the trails.
Things to Keep in Mind
- The park is open from 6:30 am to 10:00 pm, so it’s perfect for early risers or evening adventurers.
- If you’re planning to use the dog park, registration is required through the town of Apex.
- Fall colors make this park extra charming, so don’t forget your camera or phone to snap some seasonal photos.
Apex Nature Park is the kind of place that has a little something for everyone—whether you’re here to hike, play, or hang out with your four-legged friend. It’s definitely worth adding to your fall outdoor adventure list!
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Hillsborough
Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area
Hours:
Jan & Feb 8AM-6PM
March, April, Sept. & Oct. 8AM – 8PM
May – August 8AM-9PM
Entrance & Parking Fees:
FREE! There is no cost to enter or park.
About Occoneechee Mountain State Recreation Area
A couple of years ago, I was on a mission to find the best sunset spots near Raleigh and stumbled across Occoneechee Mountain State Recreation Area in Hillsborough.
With its mountain-like views and a promise of stunning sunsets, it sounded perfect.
Unfortunately, I didn’t give myself enough time to find the overlook that first visit.
Fast forward to this year: I made it my mission to go back in the fall, when the leaves were changing, to finally take in those views—and wow, it was worth it.
The hike was beautiful, the fall colors were breathtaking, and my new rescue husky, Koda, had the time of his life exploring the trails.
Type of Trail(s)
- Occoneechee Mountain Loop Trail: This 2.2-mile moderate loop trail takes you through wooded areas, past streams, and up to the scenic overlook. It’s a must for those seeking fall views and a bit of a workout.
- Overlook Trail: A shorter trail (about 0.2 miles) that leads directly to the overlook with those coveted views of the Eno River and the surrounding area.
- Chestnut Oak Trail: A 0.9-mile loop that’s a quieter option, winding through shaded woods and featuring unique flora like rare chestnut oaks.
- Brown Elfin Knob Trail: At just 0.13 miles, this trail offers a quick detour to a unique ecological area home to rare plants and wildlife.
Other Special Features and Things to Know
- Mountain-Like Views: This is one of the highest points in Orange County, offering views that truly feel like a slice of the mountains—without the long drive west.
- Perfect for Fall: The fall colors here are stunning, with vibrant reds and golds creating the perfect backdrop for your hike.
- Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for deer, birds, and even some rare species like the brown elfin butterfly (a species you can’t find anywhere else in the region), which thrives in the area.
- Fishing Pond: For anglers, there’s a small fishing pond stocked with bass, catfish, and sunfish.
- Dog-Friendly: Koda absolutely loved the trails, and it’s a great spot for bringing your furry friend along for an adventure.
Things to Keep in Mind
- The trails can be steep in some areas, so wear sturdy shoes and plan for a moderate hike.
- The parking lot is small so it can fill up quickly on nice weekends, so arrive early, especially in the fall.
- While the overlook trail, is short, you have to take the Chestnut Oak Ridge Trail to get to it, but it’s worth every step—don’t miss it!
Occoneechee Mountain State Recreation Area offers a little bit of everything: peaceful trails, stunning views, and that perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re chasing a sunset or soaking up the fall colors, this spot deserves a place on your hiking list.
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Fall Hiking Near Raleigh, NC Wrap up!
Fall is hands-down my favorite season to get outside and explore, and putting together this list of the best fall hikes near Raleigh has been such a joy.
Each trail holds a story for me, whether it’s revisiting a spot to finally catch that perfect sunset, shedding pregnancy weight while pushing a stroller, or discovering a new favorite walk with my rescue husky, Koda.
What I love most about these places is how they blend natural beauty with unique features, like scarecrow displays, mountain-like views, or peaceful water trails that feel miles away from the hustle of daily life.
These hikes remind me why it’s so important to take the time to experience the incredible places North Carolina has to offer—and to do it now, while the fall colors are vibrant and the air is crisp.
I hope this inspires you to explore these trails, create your own memories, and discover your own go-to spots.
So, which trail will you start with? Let me know in the comments or share your adventures—I’d love to hear your stories and suggestions! 🍂🍁
I hope you’ve enjoyed my top picks for fall hiking near Raleigh, NC. I’d love to know where you like to enjoy the fall colors! Share your pics with us in our North Carolina Traveler Facebook group!
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