If there’s one paved trail in North Carolina that’s perfect for families, it’s the big 1.7-mile loop around the Ann and Jim Goodnight Museum Park at the North Carolina Museum of Art in Raleigh. There are a number of paved or gravel trails in this 164-acre art park, but this one is fully paved for the entire route.

Here's a look at the route, which has a total elevation change of just 104 feet, making it an easy hike.
AllTrails
Wander through a myriad of enormous permanent and temporary art installations. The trio of Gyre rings is among the most visible at the start of the trail.
TripAdvisor/stevendale
Get a taste for the whimsical whirligigs found in the big Whirligig Park in downtown Wilson, North Carolina, with the one now located in this art park.
Google/Eagle YZ

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And hike through forest, hills, and rolling valleys on this trail that easily can be completed in just under an hour.
AllTrails/Bill Watson
Be sure to check out the vantage point from the pond's platform as you pass. The view is amazing!
Google/Eagle YZ
Visitors are always happy to find out that entrance to this museum art park is free.
AllTrails/Josie Sianez
This truly accessible trail and the Ann and Jim Goodnight Museum Park at the North Carolina Museum of Art are open daily from dawn to dusk.
Google/Michael Rappa

It’s not always easy to find a fully paved trail in North Carolina so don’t pass up the opportunity to check this one (and the 30+ installation art exhibits!) out. Learn more about the Ann and Jim Goodnight Museum Park and its trails on the website.

While you’re in town, check out another must-visit family-friendly park in Raleigh.

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North Carolina Museum of Art, 2110 Blue Ridge Rd, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA