I've heard about the fall colors in Vermont, seen pictures of the Northwest, and lived in Upstate New York for my childhood. Autumn was always my favorite season (if you don't count Spring and Summer.) Living in San Diego for 16 years, the one thing I missed was the changing of the seaons, and especially the Fall . 

However, this year the autumn color in Wake County is spectacular. Last year we were in the midst of a drought so our leaves went from green to brown to winter without much fanfare. This year we're making up for it in spades!

Since moving to Apex, North Carolina several years ago,Crowder Park has become one of my favorite place to go walking. Whether it's with a dog, or just my husband and myself, it's always beautiful.

Crowder Park was built in 1992 on land donated by Mrs. Crowder for the use of a community park. It is situated on approximately 33 acres off of TenTen Rd.near Holly Springs Rd.  Park amenities include three playgrounds, three picnic shelters, a sand volleyball court, play field, restrooms, an outdoor amphitheater and a 3-acre pond with a boardwalk and an observation deck.

There are 2 trails for walking & jogging. The outer loop trail is 8/10 of a mile long and runs along the edge of the park. The Inner Loop trail is 3/10 of a mile and circles the pond, This trail takes you across the boardwalk and onto the observation deck where you can watch fish, turtles, herons, ducks, and sometimes even a beaver.

Although right now some of the trails are under repair, it's still worth going for a visit. Bring your dog, you'll meet many friends! Your kids will love the playgrounds (all made out of recycled material). Have a picnic under one of the shelters. Or just sit on a bench and enjoy nature.