Lake Raleigh Woods

Nestled on the southwestern edge of NC State University’s Centennial Campus in Raleigh, Lake Raleigh Woods is a 96-acre forest that serves as both a living laboratory and a serene escape for the Wolfpack community. Bordered by the 75-acre Lake Raleigh in western Wake County, the preserve features a network of looping trails that wind through mature hardwoods, loblolly pines, and seasonal wildflowers, offering glimpses of great blue herons, red-shouldered hawks, and other wildlife along the shoreline. Managed by the College of Natural Resources, the woods host student-led research on forest ecology, invasive species control, and prescribed burns.  Accessible via Main Campus Drive or the Walnut Creek Greenway, it’s a popular spot in the Triangle for trail running, dog walking, and quiet reflection, with fishing piers and benches inviting visitors to linger amid the rustle of leaves and the distant hum of campus life.


Map:




Trails:


Fern Trail


Fern Trail is a 1-mile loop for hiking and biking starting from the trailhead at Centennial Campus Middle School.


Lakeview Trail


Lakeview Trail starts at the Alumni Center trailhead and follows the lakeshore to a point near Walnut Creek at the headwaters of the lake.


Pine Trail


Pine Trail starts at the trailhead at Centennial Campus Middle School and leads to Lakeview Trail.


Ridge Trail


Ridge Trail leads from Lake View Trail to Fern Trail along the western boundary of the forest.


Tulip Poplar Trail


Tulip Poplar Trail is a hiking and biking trail starting from Centennial Campus Middle School Trailhead.


Valley Trail


Valley Trail descends from Fern Trail to Lakeview Trail.


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09-Nov-2025: Dix Park Trolls


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