This is a state treasure trove of 5,577 untouched acres, 3 lakes, 22 miles of hiking trails, and 13 miles of mountain bike/horse riding paths. The park has two entrances, one off I-70 and another at the Harrison Ave. exit off I-40. The Reedy Creek entrance from I-40 will be more convenient for most travelers staying in the Research Triangle area, and is especially convenient for those guests of the Embassy Suites, Hilton Garden Inn, and other neighboring hotels. Be sure to grab a map at any of the information stands, the trails are well marked, but it's best to be safe and the paper maps will comfortably fit in a pocket, sock, or under a hat.
Mountain bikes and horses are not allowed on the separate hiking trails, but joggers are allowed on both the bike trails and the hiking paths, though the wider bike/ride trails are somewhat easier to navigate.
Tenting and camping are also available throughout the park, as well as fishing and canoe rental.
Getting there: After heading north across I-40 on Harrison, you will come to a fork in the road about a half-mile from the interstate. Hiking/jogging trail head access, a parking lot, bathrooms, and map boxes, are a couple hundred yards to the left, so go that way. From there, begin your fun after getting a map. And, if you're on a bike, follow the road back to the fork and pick up the mountain bike trail at the end of the right fork road.
There are two entrances to the park, both with different access times. They are as follows:
Crabtree Creek Entrance: November-February: 7am - 6pm; March, April, September, October: 7am - 8pm; May - August: 7am - 9pm; Closed Christmas Day
Reedy Creek Entrance: November - February: 8am - 6pm; March, April, September, October: 8am - 8pm; May - August: 8am - 9pm; Closed Christmas Day
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