Travel NC With Kids: Holly Discovery Trail at Lake James State Park

Holly Discovery Trail at Lake James State Park © Katrena

Lake James State Park, located at 7321 NC Hwy 126 in Nebo, North Carolina, was a quick stop for my family to break up the ride to Cherokee as we headed west on I-40.

Lake James State Park TRACK Trail © Katrena

We managed to find the park without incident by following directions from the web site - there were several signs along the road as well.

Hiking Trail for Families © Katrena

Entrance into the park is free. I particularly like the free parks in North Carolina! For me, enjoying the beauty of nature is a great family activity for all ages and abilities.

Beautiful Hiking Trail in NC © Katrena

After getting our NC state parks passport stamped in the welcome center at the lake, this trail was recommended by an employee.

NC State Park Family Interactive Hiking Trails © Katrena

Employees at the North Carolina State Parks are often a great resource and can offer advice for folks who are looking for activities that will fit within a time frame or particular abilities within the group.

Shaded Hiking Trail in North Carolina © Katrena

On the day we visited, the lake area had a well-kept, sandy beach with several lifeguards on duty. There is a fee for swimming.

Hiking Trail at Lake James State Park in NC © Katrena

The trailhead for Holly Discovery Trail is right by a large bridge with a parking area off to the side. This is a TRACK trail, designed with families in mind.

NC State Park Hiking Trail © Katrena

The trail is 0.75 mile and loops back into a circle in which hikers can choose either direction for navigating.

Interesting Hiking Trails for Families © Katrena

We opted to start on the left side of the trail and circle back to the right side. We visited in late June. I would highly recommend bug spray if you are visiting during mosquito season.

Lake James State Park in NC © Katrena

Water Activities for Families in NC © Katrena

This trail is quite shaded and near a body of water. You can see the stream from the bridge but not easily from the trail.

Interactive Hiking Trail at Lake James © Katrena

When we visited, the trail was well-maintained and clearly marked throughout the loop. The terrain is flat and paved with gravel.

Free Hiking Trail in NC © Katrena

I believe someone with a scooter designed to navigate gravel would be able to do this trail as long as it is dry.

This trail was loaded with interactive displays. The displays are colorful, interesting, and educational. They often encourage hikers to explore further with multiple senses or to learn more about the ecological system of the area.

Several areas beckoned visitors to stop and explore, but my hikers focused on finishing the trail because the bug spray was in my backpack in the car.

One of my kids was wearing flip flops, not exactly hiking attire, but she was able to hike the trail without any problems.

This park is large with 25 miles of hiking trails, many of which are open to mountain biking. Those who enjoy water activities may wish to swim or rent a boat or kayak at the lake. Picnics are another option while visiting a state park.