Green Hills County Park

Unexpected Treasure on Transformed Land

Nestled in northern Wake County, Green Hills County Park is what we'd call a hidden retreat with an intriguing twist. This 36-acre recreational space in Raleigh isn't your typical park - it's actually built on a former landfill site that closed and reopened as a public park in July 2010. Quite a dramatic makeover.

The Big Hill - Worth Every Step

The main feature here is the "Big Hill" - a 73-acre former landfill that rises 190 feet above the surrounding landscape. Yes, there are 4.8 million tons of waste safely contained under that grassy mound, but don't let that deter you. The quarter-mile trek to the summit is moderately steep, but there are plenty of benches along the way when you need to catch your breath.

At the top (469 feet above sea level), you'll find panoramic views that make the climb worthwhile. On clear days, you can spot downtown Raleigh and North Hills in the distance. The summit area features benches and picnic tables where you can relax and soak in the scenery. The views at sunset are particularly nice as the day winds down.

Trails for Every Adventure

The nearly 5 miles of trails accommodate both casual walkers and active mountain bikers. The 1.4-mile paved Pedestrian Loop encircling the big hill is great for a quick workout or walking your four-legged friend without worrying about cars.

Mountain biking enthusiasts will appreciate the 2 miles of trails designed with beginners and intermediate riders in mind. There's even a dedicated skills area where you can practice those technical moves before hitting the main trails. The park also connects to nearby greenways, so you can extend your outdoor adventure if you're feeling ambitious.

Family-Friendly Features

Green Hills offers various amenities for families. The modern playground is thoughtfully divided into areas for the little ones (ages 2-5) and bigger kids (ages 5-12). The play area features rope climbing, rock climbing, and slides set on natural wood chips - a refreshing change from typical playground surfaces.

When hunger strikes, you can find picnic areas throughout the park, including a large shelter that can host up to 100 people. There are also several covered picnic shelters near the playground and numerous tables scattered around the grounds for impromptu outdoor meals.

Clean restrooms are available near the playground area, which sits on the opposite side from the entrance (you'll need to drive halfway around the loop to get there). Water fountains are also available when you need to rehydrate.

One important note: because of the landfill gas collection system, open flames, grills, and smoking aren't allowed here - it's just a safety precaution.

Environmental Renewal

Green Hills represents an interesting transformation story. The park is well-maintained, with ongoing monitoring to ensure safety and environmental standards. You might spot deer and other wildlife in the wooded areas as nature reclaims this space.

Locals sometimes call this place "Mt. Trashmore," but the clean grounds and good facilities showcase successful repurposing. The maintained trails and peaceful atmosphere give little indication of the park's previous use.