Here’s another great place to take a walk, which I think we’re all doing a lot of to fill the time! I had heard about the walking trail behind East Regional Library in Knightdale, but I didn’t realize it was actually an entire park! For some reason this park never comes up when you search Google for Knightdale parks. However, it’s worth a visit and it’s a great hidden oasis of nature in the city! We’re adding this to our tot spot map so you can find it in the future!
Gravel Walking Trail and Boardwalk
Knightdale Environmental Park offers a 1/3 mile walking trail and boardwalk around a pond with benches, overlooks, public art, and two picnic shelters. Once you enter the trail you are completely shaded and walking by the water makes it much cooler in temperature. The trail is not stroller friendly because there are some stairs at the entrance. The gravel trails were redone in 2021, and it’s a perfect trail for little walkers since it is a short loop and there’s lots of nature to explore along the way!
Art Sculptures Near the Pond
I especially liked the bits of art sculptures scattered along the trail. The boardwalk also has some great overlooks to get a better view of the pond. I saw some remnants of fishing line someone had left behind, so if you have a fishing license I bet you could fish here.
My 2 year old was ecstatic to see ducks on the water and we watched for a while as they dug for worms. My 5 year old affectionately dubbed the place mermaid land, although I never really understood why. I guess she liked walking by the water? 🤷
If you’re looking to take an easy walk with the kids, then I highly recommend this place! You could also time it up so you are at the library for story time (once they are back in session) and can explore afterwards. There are two picnic shelters available so pack a picnic!
If you’re looking for more of a traditional park with a playground, try Knightdale Station. It has some walking trails too, and an amphitheater and brewery in walking distance. There’s also a smaller and older park in Knightdale called Harper Park, which contains tennis and pickle-ball courts.