Salem Lake: Winston-Salem's Hidden Gem

Salem Lake, located a few minutes away from Winston-Salem has been dubbed as the hidden gem of the city, and it is for a good reason. The 375-acre lake is a favorite place among guests who seek a stunning view that can instantly relax them away from the busyness of the city life.
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If you ask people who have been in Salem Lake, you would often hear them say that the place is peaceful and calm. It can make you feel like you are away from the city when in fact you only drove for a few minutes to get there. The water from the lake makes it easy for anyone to commune with nature and be calm even just for a few minutes. The sound of the birds and the fresh air contribute to the stunning view of nature. Many people go to Salem Lake to indulge in nature as well as keep their minds in good shape because studies have shown that relaxation is essential to keep one's mental health intact.

Aside from the beautiful surrounding, Salem Lake also offers an unpaved, seven-mile trail which is an ideal trail to try for people who want to improve their physical wellbeing. The level of difficulty in going through the loops is from moderate to difficult. It is an excellent trail to challenge yourself and go beyond your regular physical activities.

Along the trail, guests can enjoy sight-seeing different wildlife such as squirrels, birds, and butterflies. Because of the plentiful wildlife in the lake, it is an ideal place to go for a scavenger hunt. If you are going there with your children, you can ask them to find as much wildlife as they can and check them off their list. You might be surprised to see different species of birds in the area because Salem Lake is part of the North Carolina Birding Trail.

Salem Lake is a fun and perfect place for the whole family. There are nine educational Kids in Parks stations you can find along the trail. Each station aims to educate, not only children, but also the adults about animals, plants, drinking water, and maintaining cleanliness throughout Salem Lake. You should come prepared with a pencil and notepad because they display a secret code letter and once you have unscrambled the word and entered it online, you have a chance to win an exciting prize.

If you prefer staying in the lake, you can rent canoes and fishing boats from the fishing station. The lake is abundant with largemouth bass, bream, catfish, carp and hybrid bass. If you are 16 years old and above and you plan to go on fishing, you will be required to present a North Carolina State Fishing License which can be bought at the Salem Lake fishing station. You can also purchase fishing equipment and refreshments from the station.
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Salem Lake is in operation throughout the year, but the operation hours change depending on the season. If you have never set foot at Salem Lake, you should plan your visit soon. Don't miss the opportunity to see what they call the Piedmont Triad gem and discover for yourself why it is called that way.

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