Schenck Forest is one of my favorite outdoor spaces in Raleigh. The 245-acre teaching forest is owned and managed by NC State University.
Location
The sites and sounds of the forest are superb, but its location is my favorite feature. The forest and other adjacent NCSU lands also connect to Umstead State Park creating a massive “rural” and natural respite minutes away from the heart of Raleigh.
Hikes
We like to go to the forest to walk on the trails and by the river. There are several easy and short hikes that can be combined into longer meanders if you choose.
The two main trails are:
- Frances L. Liles Trail Loop (1.2 mi)
- Richland Creek Trail (3.7 mi)
Teaching Forest
The forest is a teaching forest, named after Carl Schenck who founded the first forestry school in the country. As you explore you will find educational signs, research equipment, and various stages of forestry studies in action. The NCSU Timbersports Club also holds competitions in the forest.
Additional Reading: Carl A. Schenck (Wikipedia)
Comment Below
What is your favorite place to Hike in Raleigh?
