We begin this Adventure at Swift Creek Bluffs Preserve, purchased by TLC in 1991. Downstream from Cary’s Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve, Swift Creek Bluffs features steep north-facing slopes rising 100 feet above the south bank of Swift Creek. Massive American beech trees form a canopy over a carpet of woodland wildflowers and ferns, many of which are more commonly found in the North Carolina mountains. Hiking trails follow the creek, explore the bottomland and ascend the bluffs to the crest high above.

View Swift Creek Skateaway in a larger map

Swift Creek Bluffs is on the North Carolina Birding Trail, and spring is a great time to see several species. Spring warblers are migrating through the region, and the Louisiana waterthrush has been seen here this time of year. You’ll also notice wildflowers, including bloodroot and trout lilies.

More information about Swift Creek Bluffs Nature Preserve, including a preserve guide, can be found here. 

After you have explored Swift Creek Bluffs, grab a bite to eat. May we suggest…

Gypsy’s Shiny Diner…Inside the gleaming silver exterior, you’ll find a glinting jewel. Gypsy’s is proud to serve the best diner fare around. From breakfast to burgers to desserts, you are sure to find a stellar meal in a lively atmosphere. Gypsy’s original Seeburg jukebox is always spinning 45s and patrons select tunes from the small replicas at every table.

Hotpoint Café…If you are looking for mouth-watering fusion cuisine and delectable pizza, stop in at the Hotpoint. This trendy eatery boasts unique eats, wine and a casual atmosphere.

Ashworth Drug’s soda fountain...If you want the best hot dogs around sprinkled with some nostalgia, take a seat at Ashworth Drug’s lunch counter in downtown Cary. Enjoy a sandwich (I recommend the homemade chicken salad) accompanied by a fresh-squeezed lemonade or an authentic vanilla Coke. Then top off your meal with a scoop (or two!) of ice cream.

Now that you’ve enjoyed a great lunch, let’s go for a skate! Choose which form of skating you prefer – ice, roller, or skateboarding!

If you want to perfect your triple toe loop, salchow or sit spin, head to the Cary Ice House.The Ice House offers an indoor rink, figure and hockey skate rentals and a complete pro shop.

If you’d rather glide on wheels, head to Jellybeans for either inline or quad skating. Jellybeans offers a quality maple hardwood skate surface, snack bar and video games.

And if you want to bust a 360 on a half-pipe, Sk8 Cary Skate Park is the place to be. Practice your ollies and grind some rails on the 12,000 square-foot outdoor street course made up of banks, grind ledges, quarter-pipes and half-pipes from 3 to 9 feet tall. Sk8 Cary includes a pro shop, concession area with vending machines and a covered viewing area.

Best time to visit: Anytime, but the spring flowers at Swift Creek Bluffs are especially spectacular.

Photo by Sonke Johnsen