With winter just around the corner, now’s the perfect time to get outside and enjoy those last few crisp, sunny days before the cold settles in. Raleigh is full of great outdoor sports; you don’t have to travel far to find wonderful trails. Whether you’re looking for fresh air or a fun adventure with your furry friends, we’ve got six scenes of dog-friendly hiking trails near Raleigh that are perfect for making the most of the season.
Hilliard Creek Trail
Hilliard Creek Trail is a 1.7-mile loop that takes about thirty-six minutes to complete. This is a very popular trail for hiking and mountain biking with your dog. July-April is the best time to visit, but the beautiful trail is pleasant all year round. There is a lot of wildlife to see, and it’s often not crowded. Hilliard Creek can be confusing, so watch the trail markings carefully while you enjoy your hike with Fido.
This trail is free, and your dog should stay on their leash on the trail.
Lake Johnson West Loop Trail
This 2-mile, forty-minute loop is quick and surrounds half of Lake Johnson. The West Loop is a mixed trail with wooden and dirt paths, and it is recommended to avoid this trail after heavy rain because it tends to get muddy. Lake Johnson West Loop is a popular trail and is perfect for socializing your pup.
There is no entrance fee to enjoy this trail. Please make sure your dog stays on their leash while enjoying.
Durant Nature Preserve Border Loop Trail
This is a 2.5-mile loop that takes about fifty-four minutes to finish with your pup. There are plenty of beautiful trees, lakes, and creek views to explore. Note that there may be some obstacles to overcome while on this hike. While it is relatively simple to complete, you may need to hop over water using rocks and other debris. This trail is best for dogs with an adventurous streak.
Durant Nature Preserve is free to enjoy with your dog on their leash.
Sycamore & Graylyn Loop
Sycamore and Graylyn Loop is 3 miles and should take about an hour and nine minutes to finish. This is an excellent trail for birdwatching and a quick run. It can be rather busy on the weekend, with quieter visiting periods throughout the week. Don’t let this trail’s popularity deter you; while there can be many visitors, there are also quiet spots throughout the trail that are great to enjoy during the fall.
This is a free loop; just be sure to keep your dog leashed.
Company Mill Trail to Reedy Creek Trail Loop
Company Mill Trail to Reedy Creek Trail covers about 6 miles in a loop that is a bit longer. This two-hour and twenty-minute hike is filled with activities to enjoy. The park offers shelters, picnic tables, and restrooms. Its well-kept, easy-to-navigate terrain makes this trail family-friendly for four-legged friends and two-legged ones.
These trails require your dogs to stay on their leash, but both of you can enjoy them for free.
Rocky Branch Trail Via Walnut Creek Trail
Our last and longest pick, Rocky Branch Trail byway of Walnut Creek Trail, is a 10-mile out-and-back that takes about three hours to complete. This is a lovely trail for road biking and hiking alongside your pooch. It’s very unlikely that you will run into other hikers, so this trail might be better for dogs who struggle around strangers. This trial is mainly paved with some wooden boardwalks, and while it is simple, it’s long, so pack water and a few snacks for your exploration.
Rocky Branch and Walnut Creek Trails are free, but request that dogs stay on their leash.
Now, you’re ready to check out all of the beautiful trails Raleigh offers! Grab your favorite leash and get to hiking as adventure awaits.