Home › North Carolina › Cary › Marla Dorrel Park
Marla Dorrel Park
4.8 ★★★★★ 991 Google reviews · Running trail in Cary, North Carolina · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Tree cover
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Marla Dorrel Park's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Charming suburban park boasting an innovative children's play space, basketball court & picnic area.
What runners say about Marla Dorrel Park
“The bathrooms are always clean, the park is always well cared for, and accessible for all kids.”
“Swingsets all around, sandboxes all around, beautiful landscaping and trees/bushes.”
“This location is great as it is semi shaded so it is isn't brutal during the warmer months.”
“The park is well maintained and is for all ages of kids.”
Was in Cary area and looking for park to spend an hour. Found this wonderful park for my little champ. Weather was quite cold still the park was crowded. The park is well maintained and is for all ages of kids. Play area has 3 different areas for toddlers, kids and bigger kids.
This is a great playground for all age groups. When you first enter the park the toddler area is off to the left and picnic tables and restrooms are to the right. They have multiple areas of play structures along with various swings (including disability friendly, baby, and regular).
The nicest park around.. well shaded for hot days and many interactive activities. Even has a play kitchen in the toddler area. My children absolutely love it here!
This park has everything a family needs for a fun-filled sledding experience. There are designated areas for both toddlers and older children, ensuring a safe environment for everyone. The park is well-maintained with clean benches, lush trees🌳, and manicured grass.
Trail conditions & character
“When you first enter the park the toddler area is off to the left and picnic tables and restrooms are to the right.”
“This location is great as it is semi shaded so it is isn't brutal during the warmer months.”
“On weekends and holidays, the park is quite busy and there may not be enough parking spaces close to the playground.”
“The best part about the playground, is that most of it is wheelchair accessible, which is so important to so many families.”
“Water fountains are scattered through out the whole park area, so the kids can get water anytime close by.”
Plan your run at Marla Dorrel Park
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeRunners describe real tree cover here — it makes a summer afternoon workable
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms, water — reported by runners
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitetownofcary.org
- Phone+1 919-469-4061
Hours
| Monday | 7 am–9 pm |
| Tuesday | 7 am–9 pm |
| Wednesday | 7 am–9 pm |
| Thursday | 7 am–9 pm |
| Friday | 7 am–9 pm |
| Saturday | 7 am–9 pm |
| Sunday | 7 am–9 pm |
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