The Triangle features many state parks and gardens as well as an extensive Greenway trail system. The Triangle makes an excellent home for nature lovers, as it offers many opportunities for hiking, boating, fishing, and many more outdoor activities. Below I discuss some of my favorite parks in the Triangle.
Eno River State Park
Located in Durham and Orange counties, Eno River State Park includes 30 miles of hiking trails along a river that is commonly used for fishing, kayaking, and swimming. The park is also scattered with several historic mills and home sites.
The most unique feature of Eno River State Park is the Eno Rock Quarry, accessible via the Cabe Lands Trail. The 4 acre wide and 60 foot deep quarry went out of use in 1964 and was subsequently filled with water. Since then, it has been a popular 
spot for cliff diving, swimming and scuba diving. If you visit the quarry, be sure to bring a raft!
Many exciting events occur at Eno River State Park as well, the most notable being the Festival for the Eno, which occurs on and around the 4th of July. The festival features many performers, from cloggers to rock bands, artisans, and food trucks. It is a great way to enjoy time with friends and family over the holiday.
William B. Umstead State Park
Stretching across Cary, Raleigh, and Durham, Umstead State Park offers something for everyone. It features 20 miles of hiking trails as well as 13 miles of multiuse trails that allow both biking and horseback riding. Additionally, canoe and rowboat rentals are available at the boathouse on the park’s Big Lake, which is also a popular fishing spot. Umstead State Park has several picnic shelters as well, many of which include fireplaces, which may be rented out for events.
My favorite trail in Umstead State Park is the Company Mill Trail, which takes hikers down a hill to access the swiftly flowing Crabtree Creek. This is the site of the Company Mill, which existed in the 1800s. A few remnants of the site are visible now, such as the mill’s dam. Additionally, the large flat rocks around the creek make excellent spots to stop for a picnic.
Battle Park
Popular amongst UNC – Chapel Hill students, as is it located on the east s side of the campus, Battle Park features many nature trails as well as the infamous Forest Theatre. The Forest Theatre is a large stone amphitheatre built into the side of a hill that has been home to many performances since 1916. The renowned Carolina PlayMakers have many shows at the Forest Theatre.
Another unique characteristic of Battle Park is its close proximity to Gimghoul Castle, a beautiful castle constructed by French artisans in the 1920s using 1,300 tons of stones. There is much mystery surrounding the castle, but the most common theory of its usage is that it is the confidential meeting place of the Order of the Gimghoul. The Order of the Gimghoul is an alleged collegiate secret society open to male UNC students and faculty by invitation only.
A trip to Battle Park is sure to be an adventure, as it has so many interesting places to visit!
Posted by Larry Tollen on
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