I recently spent some time in Raleigh and was looking for somewhere to take a quick walk, about 2-3 miles. I took a look on Google Maps and found Lake Johnson Park, not far from downtown Raleigh. There are shorter loops that are about 2 miles, or you can make the walk longer by doing additional loops.
It is easy to get there, and there are several parking lots. Google Maps took me to the main parking lot, but there are several lots here for extra parking.
Parking is free, which is great. I could see myself returning to this park often to enjoy the trails.
At the main part of the park, there is a building with bathrooms, restrooms, rentals, and more.
There was plenty of parking in the main lot, but you can always go to a different lot if there are no spots left here or if you prefer to pick up the trail in a different spot.
It is nice to have the main building here with bathrooms and more.
There is a trail kiosk here with information about Lake Johnson.
Depending on which trails you do here, there are about 2-5 miles of trails to check out. (Always check out the most recent maps online or at the park).
The trails are in great condition, with the majority of it being paved and wide.
There is a large, flat, open area that overlooks the lake.
There are some surprisingly steep areas on this trail. I was expecting it to be completely flat around the lake, and it is flat on one side, but it ended up being quite steep on the other. It gave me a nice little workout!
There is a lovely bridge going over the water near the waterfront center. This is such a pretty place to look out over the water.
The view of the lake is so lovely and relaxing, and there are even Adirondack rocking chairs out front to enjoy.
If you’re into water sports, there are rentals and other opportunities to enjoy time on the water.
I really enjoyed my time here with a variety of trails to choose from and plenty of facilities from parking to bathrooms. I would like to return and do some kayaking on the lake some time.
Check out this park online at the NC Parks website.
About the Author: Marysa
Busy blogger and mom of two kids. We love traveling and the great outdoors, and are always looking for our next adventure! If you have any travel questions, contact me! marysa@anationofmoms.com
I will be traveling here next month. I am going to check out this park, as I love all the trails.
The Adirondack rocking chairs right by the water sound like the perfect spot to just sit and breathe for a minute! I love that it ended up being more of a workout than expected with those steeper sections.
Fun! I’d go kayaking for sure. I’ve never done that before and always wanted to. I think I’d like it for about 10 minutes and then be over it, but still, it would be something new.
What a lovely place to spend the weekend! I can already imagine myself sitting in one of those rocking chairs, just looking out at the lake and enjoying the peace and quiet. It sounds like the perfect place to slow down and relax.
Meanwhile, I’m pretty sure my boys would be out paddling or kayaking all day since they love anything involving water.
This park loos awesome and love the look of the path and two to three. miles is perfect. I will have to check this out when I visit family down there 😉
Lake Johnson Park is one of my favorite walking trails. I walk it 4-6 times a week. I just left the trail, lol.