Explore the beauty of the Triangle at TLC’s nature preserves.
Triangle Land Conservancy’s nature preserves span more than 2,400 acres and 50 miles of trails across six counties throughout the Triangle. They are open to the public year-round, from dawn to dusk—completely free of charge. These protected areas safeguard vital natural resources while offering low-impact recreational activities such as hiking, walking, running, birdwatching, mountain biking and more.
Note that Brumley South and Williamson Preserves occasionally close to walkers and mountain bikers after rain. Please check the Trail Status page before heading to any of our preserves.
Check out other publicly accessible land TLC has helped protect
In addition to managing public nature preserves, Triangle Land Conservancy sometimes protects land by acquiring properties and transferring them to organizations or public agencies that can provide long-term stewardship. These transfers ensure permanent protection and many remain open to the public for hiking, biking, wildlife viewing, and other outdoor activities, strengthening community connections to nature.
Preserve Guidelines & What to Expect
When are the preserves open?
All TLC preserves are open dawn to dusk.
Where do I park?
All TLC preserves have designated parking lots. Please park and access the preserves only through these entrances. Some preserves, like Brumley Nature Preserve, have several parking access points. Williamson Preserve (specifically, the Bootleggers Loop) can be accessed from the Neuse River Greenway.
Can I mountain bike at TLC preserves?
- Mountain biking is available at Williamson Preserve in Wake County and Brumley South Preserve in Orange County. You can check the trail status at any time by visiting our trail status page. Please respect all trail closures, which help us maintain the trails and the fragile habitats near them.
- Please note, all riders must wear helmets. E-bikes are not permitted.
- Please observe good trail-sharing etiquette, including giving audible warnings and slowing down to pass hikers and other riders.
Can I bring my dog to TLC preserves?
Yes! Dogs are welcome at all TLC preserves but they must be leashed at all times on a 6-foot physical leash. This is critical for the safety of other visitors, wildlife, and farm animals.
All pet waste must be bagged and disposed of off the premises to protect water quality and habitats.
Will there be cell phone service?
Cell phone service varies depending on your carrier and so is not guaranteed at any of the preserves. Cell coverage is generally poor at the southern half of Williamson Preserve near the Neuse River Greenway Trail, as well as most of Horton Grove and White Pines. Please plan accordingly.
Is there any trail etiquette I should use?
- On shared hiking and mountain biking trails, please walk on the right side.
- Mountain bikers should give an audible warning and slow down to pass hikers or other riders.
- All dogs must be leashed and any waste bagged and disposed of off the premises.
- Please stay on the marked trail in order to help us protect delicate plant and wildlife habitats.
Are there restrooms or water available at the preserves?
Port-A-Johns are available at the Brumley South New Hope Church Road parking lot and at the Williamson Parking lot. No other preserves have restroom access or potable water.
What activities are prohibited?
- Littering
- Off-trail riding and hiking
- Horseback riding
- Racing on bikes
- Electric bikes (e-bikes)
- Smoking
- Bringing or consuming alcohol
- Collecting plants and wildlife
- Hunting
- Feeding wildlife or livestock
- Approaching or handling livestock or farm equipment
- Firearms
- Swimming
- Tents and/or camping
- Drone use
- Metal detecting
- Commercial activity of any kind
