A Day at Lake Crabtree County Park
Morrisville, NC — Lake Crabtree County Park is one of my favorite places to visit on crisp, fall mornings and warm, sunny afternoons. Here’s why.
Lake Crabtree County Park
I recall going to Lake Crabtree as a kid, but a visit I took last month got me hooked, and I have been back to the park multiple times since. In case the beautiful 520-acre lake isn’t enough of a draw, spending a couple of hours at Lake Crabtree offers you plane-watching, bird-watching, hiking adventures and, in my opinion, one of the best views nearby.
I’ve been taking advantage of the last few days of fall to visit before it gets too cold.
One of the best parts of this park is the observation tower, which invites you to climb several sets of stairs so that you can look through the holes to get a panoramic view of the lake. I had to carry my 30 pound puppy, Gatsby, up and down the stairs, but it was worth it.
You can choose to hike through wooded trails on the outskirts of the lake or simply take a stroll near the water’s edge. There are playgrounds and gardens and, though I’m not a mountain biker myself, I know Lake Crabtree is known for its wooded, hilly trails for bikers.
It’s being near the water that makes Lake Crabtree my favorite park around, though. For those who like to get up close and personal with the water, there are plenty of picnic tables and piers that offer you an incredible view of the stretch of water.
Last Sunday, after a bit of hiking, I enjoyed just sitting in the sun at the water’s edge.
You have your pick of fishing and boating piers, especially this time of the year when the park isn’t too crowded. With so many scenic places to sit, Lake Crabtree is a great place to bird watch. I’ve seen herons, eagles and other large birds.
You can also watch planes pass over the trees to land at RDU.
Address & Hours
Lake Crabtree County Park
1400 Aviation Parkway, Morrisville
Open 8 am – sunset
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Story and photos by Jessica Patrick. Read more about Cary parks.
