Where to see Fall colors in North Carolina this Fall
As a family lifestyle photographer based in Cary, North Carolina, I eagerly anticipate the arrival of fall each year. The vibrant foliage, crisp air, and golden light make this season ideal for capturing precious family moments. Here’s a list of my favorite locations around North Carolina to capture Fall in all it’s glory!
1. Bond Park
801 High House Rd, Cary, NC 27513
Located in Cary, Bond Park is a versatile location featuring a large lake, wooded areas, and open fields. The park’s waterfront provides a stunning setting, especially during the golden hours of the evening. The fall foliage reflects beautifully off the water, making it a prime location for both posed and candid family photos.
2. Lake Crabtree
1400 Aviation Pkwy, Morrisville, NC 27560
For nature lovers, Lake Crabtree provides a perfect blend of water views, greenery, and open skies. This picturesque spot is ideal for family portraits, engagement sessions, or even senior photos. The lake offers a peaceful ambiance with a wide, reflective surface, making it a great location for those magical golden-hour shots. You’ll find docks, boats, and wooded trails that add variety to your images. Early morning or sunset sessions work beautifully here to capture soft light glistening on the water.
Why choose Lake Crabtree?
• Waterfront views
• Open spaces for large group shots
• Great for golden-hour photography
3. Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve
2616 Kildaire Farm Rd, Cary, NC 27518
Nestled within Cary, Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve feels like an escape from the hustle and bustle. With its lush, shaded trails and a variety of natural backdrops, this location is perfect for those who want an earthy, wooded feel for their photos. The towering hemlock trees create a dramatic, forested environment, making it an excellent spot for intimate family sessions, nature-inspired portraits, and engagement photography. If you’re looking for something serene and secluded, Hemlock Bluffs is a hidden gem.
Why choose Hemlock Bluffs?
• Rich, green forested areas
• Serene, intimate atmosphere
• Ideal for earthy, nature-based photoshoots
3. Umstead State Park
8801 Glenwood Ave, Raleigh, NC 27617
For a truly rustic and expansive natural environment, William B. Umstead State Park is a favorite for outdoor photography. The park boasts miles of hiking trails, wide-open spaces, lakes, and dense woods. Whether you’re planning a family session, a maternity shoot, or an adventure-style portrait session, Umstead’s variety ensures you can capture diverse looks in one location. The towering trees and tranquil lake views create a peaceful yet grand atmosphere.
Why choose Umstead State Park?
• Variety of natural landscapes
• Expansive space for unique and dynamic shots
• Ideal for adventurous or nature-based sessions
4. Lake Johnson
5. Eno River (Cox mountain trail)
6. Pullen Park
7. Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area
8. Hawksbill Mountain Trail Head
Hello there and thank you for stopping by! I’m Katrina, the heartbeat behind Fifty Two Hundred Photo + Film, in Durham, North Carolina. I specialize in capturing meaningful and precious memories for remarkable families in North Carolina. I hope you enjoyed this story I shared today and if you are interested in learning more about The Time Capsule membership, or let’s connect. Not quite ready to connect, but you would like to follow along the journey? Follow me on Instagram and let’s be friends!
Katrina is a family photographer and family filmmaker in Durham, North Carolina. She offers lifestyle newborn photography, family photography and family videography which focuses on capturing authentic and honest moments for families. Her clients love that not only do they get digital files from their session but artwork to display in their home. She is happy to custom albums so you can revisit your favorite memories for years to come! Be sure to check out the Adobe partnership to see Katrina sharing her knowledge on capturing magical light to highlight the essence of each family.
Want an easy way to make something beautiful out of all your phone photos and videos? Learn more about the Time Capsule Membership here.
Katrina serves Durham, Raleigh, Cary, Carrboro, Apex, Chapel Hill, North Carolina.