With more than 180 miles of greenway paths across the city and dozens of other miles of trails for bicyclists and walkers, Raleigh is a city connected by trails. Each path offers a new way to see our beloved city, and biking can be one of the best ways to experience it. (Plus, biking is great for your health and joints!) BIKE THROUGH RALEIGH THIS SUMMER 3 Local Trails to Try
So, grab your helmet, hop on the bike, and check out some Raleigh trails — including these must-see spots. LAKE JOHNSON PARK Where: 4601 Avent Ferry Road When: Daily, sunrise to sunset Website: RaleighNC.gov
TAKE A BREAK
Popular with students and nearby employees, Lake Johnson Park offers two trail types within its 5-mile trail system. The first is a nearly 3-mile paved section that is best for bicyclists and easy walking. The unpaved trail spans two miles through the forest and welcomes hikers and walkers, but bikers should be cautious to avoid an environmentally preserved area on the unpaved trail. Regardless of where you pedal, you will be treated to a little escape right within Raleigh.
GRILLED CHICKEN SHAWARMA Inspired by FeastingAtHome.com
WILLIAM B. UMSTEAD STATE PARK Where: 8801 Glenwood Ave. When: Daily, 8 a.m. to sunset Website: VisitRaleigh.com
Get ready to escape at William B. Umstead State Park. This 5,000-acre park attracts mountain bikers of all levels to try their hand at the park’s 13 miles of trails. (There are also 22 miles of hiking trails.) With moderate slopes in some spots and steep inclines at other points, the park is the perfect attraction for those looking to step up their mountain biking game. Train with your friends or get lost on your own!
A spice-filled marinade and time do all the work in this recipe that features Middle Eastern flavors.
INGREDIENTS
• 2 tbsp ground cumin • 2 tbsp ground coriander • 2 tsp kosher salt • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper • 2 tsp turmeric • 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp ground black pepper • 2 tsp allspice • 8 garlic cloves, minced • 6 tbsp olive oil • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
ART TO HEART TRAIL Where: 2110 Blue Ridge Road Website: VisitRaleigh.com
Combine a love for the great outdoors with some great artwork at the Art to Heart Trail. Starting at the North Carolina Museum of Art, where bike and car parking is free, riders can peddle nearly 6 miles around the city, through the museum’s woods and into the metropolitan region of Raleigh. In fact, starting at the museum will land you right in the middle of the city! This trail is a great way to tour Raleigh, but don’t forget to stop by the museum to see some real masterpieces.
DIRECTIONS
1. To create marinade, whisk all spices with the garlic and olive oil in a medium bowl. 2. Add chicken to the bowl, coat well with marinade, cover, and let sit in the fridge for at least 20 minutes — or up to 48 hours. Strain off excess marinade before cooking. 3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill thighs for 10–12 minutes on each side, or until a meat thermometer reads 165 F. 4. Serve with rice, vegetables, or pita bread with tzatziki.
Note: Please check with parks’ ordinances regarding COVID-19 policies and precautions.
PATRIOT WEALTH | 919.322.4113 | P3
Made with FlippingBook Online newsletter maker