nd the Research Triangle Park and is accessible from I-40 and U.S. 70. It is divided into two sections, Reedy Creek and Crabtree Creek. In 1996, Crabtree Creek and Reedy Creek Parks were joined together in the creation of Umstead State Park. It was a beautiful sun-filled day with the temperature only being in the low 70s. We entered the park through the Crabtree Creek entrance on Glenwood Avenue (U.S. 70). I was taken aback how such a wooded and natural area could be located so close to urbanized civilization. The first thing we did was take a short
trail down to the boat house located on Big Lake. There were plenty of pine, maple, sweet gum, and dogwood trees along the path (with the occasional cedar). Various species of birds were flying everywhere each with their specific song (even saw a pair of herons on the lake). Unfortunately, the boat house was closed (where you can rent kayaks and canoes), but the lake was still stunningly picturesque. We even took part of the Sycamore Trail which wound itself into the heart of the park. The trails seemed to be well marked and warned against going off the trail and damaging the foliage and environment. The park management was stringent on their rules and guidelines to ensure the park remain as pristine as possible. There are twenty-two miles of hikin
g trails (10 main trails to pick from) ranging from a short stroll to an extensive hike through the wilderness. 13 miles of bridle trails allow horse enthusiasts a venue to traverse the more secluded areas of the park. Umstead is only of a few state parks which cater to and allow mountain bikers to travel along both paved and gravel trails which spread throughout the park. There is no better way to gain (or increase) your appreciation of nature and its conservation than experiencing the outdoors first hand.
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