Solite Park

Recreation Spots

Nestled alongside the American Tobacco Trail, Solite Park spreads out across a generous grassy expanse that's great for all sorts of outdoor fun or just lounging around. There's room to breathe here, whether you're looking to toss a frisbee or find a quiet spot to read.

Kids will gravitate toward the modern playground designed for the 5-12 crowd, complete with slides and climbing structures that'll keep them entertained. The swing set nearby offers two regular swings for the bigger kids and two infant swings for the little ones who are just getting started with playground adventures.

Get Your Game On

If basketball is your thing, you can shoot some hoops at the half-court basketball area. It's nothing fancy and could use a little TLC, but it's perfectly functional for a casual game or some solo practice.

Cycling enthusiasts will appreciate the pump track - a series of dirt hills that make for an exciting ride, especially for kids. Just a heads-up: the track's condition varies with the weather, and some sections might be washed out depending on when you visit.

There's also a sand volleyball court available, though it's seen better days. Consider it more of a casual play space than a competition-worthy court.

Picnic Central

Hungry after all that activity? The park features a spacious covered picnic shelter with six tables and a grill - excellent for everything from impromptu lunches to birthday celebrations. This spot tends to be popular, so if you're planning something special, you might want to make a reservation ahead of time.

The picnic area is thoughtfully positioned near both the playground and parking lot, making it super convenient if you're juggling kids, coolers, and all the other picnic essentials.

Trail Connections and Necessities

One of Solite Park's best features is its connection to the American Tobacco Trail. Many folks actually use the park as a jumping-off point for longer walks, jogs, or bike rides along the trail - a nice bonus if you're looking to extend your outdoor time.

When nature calls, you'll come across two family restrooms that are generally clean and well-kept. Staying hydrated is easy thanks to the water fountains and bottle refill station - a thoughtful touch, especially during those warmer months.

Extra Perks

If mountain biking is your jam, there's a mountain bike trail winding through the woods that remains in decent shape for casual riders.

Dog owners can bring their leashed companions to enjoy the open areas - though there's no dedicated dog park, there's plenty of space for a good sniff around.

Just a word of caution about the playground: much of it lacks shade, which means those slides and metal surfaces can heat up significantly during summer days, especially in the morning sun.

Local Art

Adding some cultural flavor to your park experience is a mural by local artist Cornelio Campos completed in September 2018. The artwork celebrates Durham's neighborhoods, their culture and history.