North Carolina State Parks offer hiking, boating, fishing, camping, paddling, picnicking and much more. We're lucky in the Triangle that there are so many close by. Many also offer free guided hikes and nature programs. We've put together a photo guide to hiking 12 North Carolina State Parks, as well as a guide to some amazing North Carolina waterfalls. Read on for a list of North Carolina … [Read more...] about Free nature programs at NC State Parks
Outdoors
Stargazing from Hartwell Rooftop Dec 14 — Geminid Meteor Shower
The Raleigh Astronomy Club will be at Hartwell Raleigh, 620 W South Street, Raleigh, North Carolina, to lead a stargazing session on Thursday, December 14, 2023, from 6 to 8 p.m. This is a free event. Drinks will be available for purchase. They'll have their telescopes set up for you to look through, and will be able to answer questions about the sky. You might also be able to see some … [Read more...] about Stargazing from Hartwell Rooftop Dec 14 — Geminid Meteor Shower
Five Geminid Meteor Shower Watch Events
This week is prime time for the Geminid meteor shower. It will peak early in the morning on December 14, 2023. Under ideal conditions -- a clear, dark sky -- you might see more than 40 Geminid meteors per hour. We will have a nearly noon moon, so the sky will be dark this year. If you can find a spot away from city lights and you're patient, you can expect to see some meteors, which are … [Read more...] about Five Geminid Meteor Shower Watch Events
Bike and Treat — a family fun ride
Oaks and Spokes is hosting a fun family bike ride, Bike and Treat, on Sunday, October 22, 2023, at 1 p.m., at Oakwood Cemetery, 643 Madison Road, Raleigh, North Carolina. Put on your Halloween costume early and join Oaks & Spokes for a family friendly Bike-and-Treat event! This event will start and end with activities on the Oakwood Cemetery Lawn (immediately on your right as you enter … [Read more...] about Bike and Treat — a family fun ride
Walk and Talk about Trails in Johnston County Oct 21
Come out to learn what’s happening with trails in Johnston County on Saturday, October 21st, 2023.Friends of Johnston County Parks has scheduled two hours of informative fun in Smithfield – and you are invited to join for all or just one part of it. Walk and Talk about Trails in Johnston County is a free event but please register here. Here’s the schedule: JCATS will be running … [Read more...] about Walk and Talk about Trails in Johnston County Oct 21
Learn all about the solar eclipse
On April 8, 2024, a rare solar eclipse will occur across all U.S. states (excluding Alaska and Hawaii). A total of 13 states will witness a "total solar eclipse." In a total eclipse, the moon blocks 100% of the sun for a few minutes, creating a ring-like aura from the sun's outer atmosphere and a darkened sky similar to twilight. The remaining states (including North Carolina) will experience … [Read more...] about Learn all about the solar eclipse
Take a Child Outside (TACO) Week events with Raleigh Parks
As part of Take a Child Outside (TACO) Week, the City of Raleigh Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources will be hosting a fun-filled week of outdoor activities for kids. This annual event encourages children and families across the country to get outside, explore, and learn more about the local environment. What will you discover about yourself or your backyard? Join these special programs to … [Read more...] about Take a Child Outside (TACO) Week events with Raleigh Parks
Eno River Herpetology Outing at Occoneechee Speedway Trail
Join the Tri-County Conservationists chapter of NCWF for an outing on the Eno River. The Tri-County Conservationists represent Alamance, Chatham and Orange Counties. This free event takes place on Sunday, September 3, 2023, from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m., at the Occoneechee Speedway Trailhead, 320 Elizabeth Brady Road, Hillsborough, North Carolina. Please register here. The group will be … [Read more...] about Eno River Herpetology Outing at Occoneechee Speedway Trail
Plant Walk in Mebane — learn about medicinal and edible plantsnation
Learn about edible and medicinal plants all around you on a Plant Walk, presented by Roots 2 Rise Wellness. These walks are donation-based, with a suggested donation of $10 to $20, but nobody is turned away due to lack of funds. The next Plant Walk takes place in Mebane. Make sure to register in advance. Plant Walk in MebaneSaturday, July 22, 202310 to 11:30 a.m.Common Ground Eco … [Read more...] about Plant Walk in Mebane — learn about medicinal and edible plantsnation
Independence Day Fishing Tournament at Bond Park in Cary
The Town of Cary is holding an Independence Day Fishing Tournament in Bond Park, 801 High House Road, Cary, NC. It takes place Tuesday, July 4, 2023, from 8 a.m. to noon. Registration starts at 7 a.m. at the Boathouse at Bond Park. It's free to participate! … [Read more...] about Independence Day Fishing Tournament at Bond Park in Cary
