Named among the best places to live in the nation, recognized as a top tech hub and drawing applause as a happening haven for home buyers of all ages, the Triangle area has built up a long list of appealing accolades. And, its most recent acknowledgment with Raleigh ranking as the sixth most adventurous city in America makes that growing list even more interesting.
According to Men’s Health, our capital city of Raleigh offers a sense of adventure worthy of national attention. The widely read men’s magazine researched the 100 largest cities in the U.S. to gather insight into population activity, the ratio of parkland to city size, the number of recreational businesses and average household expenditures on recreational activities. The report concluded that:
Residents of Raleigh have some of the more remarkable opportunities for adventure of any city on this list. Capital City BMX is a bicycle motocross track with multiple courses, ranging from 900 to 1,300 feet. If pedaling isn’t your thing and you’d rather get around the old-fashioned way, Dead Broke Farm offers horseback riding on more than 10 miles of trails on its 110-acre farm.
Or, keep your feet on the ground on the Neuse River Trail, a 27.5 mile paved pathway that winds along the scenic banks of the Neuse River. In all, Raleigh offers a system of trails that offers up more than 100 miles for running, walking and biking. The water isn’t just for show, either. Head to Lake Johnson for some canoeing or paddle boarding.
Four other North Carolina cities made the list of 100, including Durham, which came in 49th, most likely scoring points for its American Tobacco Trail section and the pristine Eno River State Park.
Be Adventurous in the Triangle
Lakes, greenways, ballparks, stadiums, trails and more offer activity and adventure in the Triangle.
Raleigh
Falls Lake State Recreation Area
The Falls Lake State Recreation Area offers visitors access to a 12,000-acre lake reservoir perfect for fishing, swimming and paddling the day away.
Go Ape Treetop Adventure Course
Seeking a sky-high adventure? Go Ape Treetop has you covered with an exciting zip line journey through Blue Jay Point Park in North Raleigh.
William B. Umstead State Park
Hike, bike, canoe, fish, camp, and trek throughout this 5,599-square-foot nature park located in Raleigh on Glenwood Avenue.
Durham
American Tobacco Trail
A 22-mile rails-to-trail project, the American Tobacco Trail spans the Triangle region with many of its trails passing through downtown Durham and the city’s borders. Runners, walkers, and bikers flock to the trails for a safe and scenic exercise route and views ranging from natural settings to bustling cityscapes.
Eno River State Park
With nearly 28 miles of trail that follow the riverbank and streams to paddle and fish, visitors to the Eno River State Park enjoy reconnecting with nature
Be Active in the Triangle
Would you rather be active than adventurous? The Triangle is still for you.
James Beard awarded master chefs dot the restaurant landscape serving up dishes meant to be relished. North Carolina’s most prominent museums are located in the area with fun children’s museums and learning spaces all around. The Durham Performing Arts Center, known as the DPAC to locals, draws the best Broadway series shows in the state. The Carolina Mudcats and Durham Bulls play home games on either end of the growing region. The Carolina Hurricanes hockey team hits the ice all throughout the year. You name it, the Triangle has it.
Visit the area to see what our growing culture scene holds. We won’t be surprised if you feel like you’ve found the next place to call home.