For whatever reason, we’ve been to Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve in Cary countless times, and we’ve never done a post about it. But now the day has finally arrived and it couldn’t come at a better time, because this is yet another fantastic Fall spot in the Triangle.
Located by the Lochmere neighborhoods off Kildaire Farm Road, Hemlock Bluffs has two main nature loops, a natural children’s play area, fantastic indoor and outdoor education facilities, and a funky and colorful garden made from recycled items like hiking boots, aluminum cans, and tires. (This cute little garden is honestly my favorite part of the park. )
Our most recent visit took us on the Swift Creek Loop Trail, which has two fantastic bluffs overlooks and multiple fun boardwalks. We also enjoyed the informative signs along the way. While not a huge challenge, to get to the actual loop portion of this trail and its boardwalks, we had to walk down many stairs, which meant eventually going back up them. If this doesn’t sound like something you’re interested in, you can still get to the bluffs overlooks with taking only a few, but not all, of those steps.
We wouldn’t call the trails here stroller-friendly, but don’t let that stop you from a visit to this park. The natural children’s play area right when you enter the park provided plenty of fun for Peter. Make sure to compare your “wingspan” to birds like the barred owl next to their sillouttes painted on the small wooden play house. Also, keep an eye out for the Lorax! (Tag us in your post or stories if you find him!)
Unfortunately, the Stevens Nature Center is not currently open due to COVID-19, but we eagerly await its reopening. From the Town of Cary website, “The Stevens Nature Center provides interactive, educational nature exhibits and historical exhibits from the Piedmont of North Carolina. The nature center also provides nature interpretation and environmental education programs for all ages throughout the year.”
Lastly, we pretty much always check bathrooms at parks, but we forgot this time. It’s our understanding that they are open, but we can’t 100% confirm.
Happy hiking!
(Note: We're currently working on updating our website with our reviews. This review was originally posted on Instagram and Facebook on October 30, 2020.)