Parks in the Creative District: Lake Johnson Park

Picturesque. Serene. Beloved. All words to describe my recent visits to Lake Johnson Park.

Lake Johnson Park is located in the heart of southwest Raleigh at 4601 Avent Ferry Rd. Its popularity is evident with the many parking lots scattered throughout the park. On two of the mornings I visited, I had to loop around the lot a few times before a spot opened up.  Other parking areas are highlighted on this map and can be found further down Avent Ferry Rd on the left, off Lake Dam Dr, at Athens Dr High School, or at Lake Johnson Pool.

The main entrance is where you’ll find the large veranda, deck, conference room, concessions, restrooms, rentals, live bait/tackle vending machines, and the boat put-in area.  The veranda, conference room, and deck are available for rent.  Paddle boats, jon boats, sunfish sailboats and canoes/kayaks are also available for rent.  Rocking chairs along the perimeter of the deck provide peaceful views of the lake.  There are also several picnic tables and information boards highlighting several of the unique park programs (boot camp, nature photography, fly fishing, sailing).  Even though most have already begun, the fall programs such as the kayak and canoe lessons for ages 12+ are starting soon.  Call 919-233-2121 for more information.  Stroller Strides also runs fitness classes for moms/dads with kids on Tues/Thurs mornings and is beginning a mom/dad 5k training program on Friday, Aug. 26th.

Avent Ferry Rd splits Lake Johnson in half and there is a paved trail loop on the eastern half and an unpaved trail loop on the western half.  The trail is the Lake Johnson Segment of the Walnut Creek greenway trail.  Park maps can be found at several of the parking areas, but if you head east on the trail from the main entrance you’ll find a helpful map detailing distances and features of the park.

Distances around the park:

• West Loop (unpaved, prohibited to biking) = 2.15 miles
• East Loop (paved) = 2.75 miles
• Full Loop = 4.33 miles
• East to west loop from the bridge = 1.32 miles

East Trail - This is a wide, paved path perfect for biking, strolling kids/dogs, walking, and running.  The trail is enveloped in large trees that provide great shade.  You’ll find beautiful views of the lake throughout this trail, especially along the dam and boardwalk.  You’ll also pass a few benches, swings, and shelters for rent along this trail.  Shelter 2 has two picnic tables and a large charcoal grill and Shelter 4 has four picnic tables, several benches, and a large charcoal grill.  Magnolia Cottage is a medium-sized building tucked deep in the woods that can also be rented for events.  If you head clockwise on the trail from the main parking lot the trail starts off flat and then gets rather hilly after crossing the dam.

West Trail – This is a fun trail for hiking or trail running.  Bikes are prohibited and I would recommend using a Baby Bjorn or back pack if bringing an infant/very young child.  Use caution on the trail, as it is mostly a narrow, hilly, dirt trail with roots covering the path.  Nature photography opportunities are galore on this trail.  You can also access Lake Johnson Pool from the West Trail.  Even though we didn’t have time for a visit inside the pool, from the outside there looks to be a spray garden, baby pool, and main pool with lap lanes and free swim area.

After a two year hiatus from visiting Lake Johnson Park until last week, I’ve been back three times and it is quickly becoming a favorite.  Between the scenic views, boating opportunities, great running trails, and safeness of the area it’s a must-visit park!

Thumbs up:  shady trails, scenic views, condition of paved trail, boating opportunities, security, facility rentals, mile markers along East trail, peacefulness

Thumbs down: confusing signage (especially along West Trail)