Shelley Lake Park

Andrew McCrae a month ago

Beautiful park with a 20-30 minute paved hiking loop, if you're walking. There's plenty of shade for most of the hike. The boardwalk on the lake is a fantastic spot to snap nature photos, as is the ridge of the dam that created the lake. A few local neighborhoods have their own access points. There are two 20+ car parking lots with direct access, one directly off the nearby road. The other is shared parking for the Sertoma Arts Center (whose staff are excellent if you need park information, or if you like art classes). I frequently see families with young children in the playground. The trail tends to be in use all day by photographers, hikers, dog-walkers, and fitness enthusiasts, but it has never felt crowded. I highly recommend as a spot for people to check out while getting to know North Raleigh! Also, know that there are active American Bald Eagle nesting sites here during various seasons, so he sure to obey posted signage regarding these nests. Happy Trails!

HD 2 months ago

Beautiful park with a serene lake and very flat, easy-to-walk paths. It’s a great place to see local wildlife—deers and squirrels are amazing. Parking is convenient and the whole area feels very safe and clean. Highly recommend for a quick nature break!

Your Lebanese guide a month ago

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Shelley Lake Park is an absolute gem in Raleigh! The trail that wraps around the entire lake is perfectly maintained and easy to walk — great for all fitness levels, whether you’re getting in a serious workout or just enjoying a leisurely stroll. The scenery is beautiful at every turn, with stunning views of the lake throughout the whole loop. It’s the kind of place that makes you forget you’re in the middle of a city. I can’t recommend it enough — if you haven’t visited yet, put it on your list!

Azucar Marron 7 months ago

I used to visit this park as a child (in the 90s) and it's still a beautiful park. The playground is updated from the metal slides that used to sear the backs of my thighs and some nice additions are there (like the communication boards and teeter-totter). The trail is still beautiful as ever and the bathrooms near the parking lot were convenient and clean.

Gean 9 months ago

It was amazing. I'm in a powered wheelchair and there were a couple of places to go down the path because of the leaves making it hard to steer going down. The place is beautifulfrom views to wildlife. Very peaceful even with so much traffic near by.