Hemlock Bluffs is a great place to escape the city and enjoy nature. 

Located southwest of Raleigh, Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve is home to a unique community of Eastern Hemlock trees and other mountain plant species. There are approximately three miles of mulched nature trails, scenic overlooks, and an excellent place for bird and wildlife watching opportunities. The trail is well maintained and wide enough for a jogging stroller to access. There are benches along the trail for stopping to rest or enjoy nature.  

There are two loops you can enjoy. The smaller 0.8-mile loop is the Swift Creek Trail which includes views of the Hemlock trees, East Bluffs, and Swift Creek. The trail includes stairs, a wooden boardwalk, and two overlooks with seating. The larger 1.2-mile loop called the Chestnut Oak trail. This loop winds through the upland forest with ridges, a ravine, and creeks with mild elevation gains. Off of the Chestnut Oak trail, there are two smaller loops called the Beech Tree Cove trail (0.9 mile) and the West Hemlock Overlook (0.7 mile). Each of them has the same access point behind the nature center. Head to the right for the Swift Creek trail and take a left for the Chestnut Oak trail. The trails are easy enough for the whole family to enjoy. 

The Stevens Nature Center has interactive, educational nature exhibits, and history about the Piedmont area of North Carolina. The nature center has several programs and nature interpretations for all ages throughout the year. The programs are designed to engage participants in hands-on learning to provide a relationship of respect and stewardship between humans and the environment. Look on the website for more information on specific programs. 

Hemlock Bluffs is a fantastic nature preserve to get outside with your family for your next adventure.