Writing this one presented a tricky situation. You see, I think it’s a cool place to visit for an easy outdoor outing but there was this one thing that brought it down for me. It was a weird situation where I liked it and think people should check it out, but I wouldn’t necessarily be in a rush to go again. Let me explain and let’s explore it together. Here’s my full guide to help you plan a day out to the scenic Mott Lake, North Carolina.
How To Plan A Day Out At Mott Lake, North Carolina
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FAQ for hiking at Mott Lake
Where is it located?
Raeford, about 40 minutes from Fayetteville.
How long does it take?
You could visit for a quick 30 minute nature walk or spend a couple of hours there.
What skill level is required?
Beginner.
Is it kid friendly?
Yes. Though, disclaimer that you know your kids far better than I do. Or at least I hope you do. Use this guide and your best judgment to decide what’s appropriate for them.
Is it dog friendly?
Yes, on a leash.
What’s it good for?
A close place to go for a nature walk, dog walk, or to chill out by the lake.
Facilities
Free parking area. There are no toilets, grills, tables etc.
What should you bring with you?
- Water – I use this insulated water bottle to keep my water cold while I’m out
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Snacks or picnic lunch
- Sun protection
- Camera – I always have this one with this compact selfie stick and tripod combo
- These clean energy drinks are awesome for a quick energy boost while you’re hiking
These drinks are awesome for a quick energy boost on the go. Click the photo to check them out and use code ‘MCINTOSH10’ for discount too!
Before we get into it
If you’re looking for even more adventures, check out my Ultimate Fort Bragg Bucket List.
It’s chock-a-block full of day trips, long weekend destinations, and unique events that you don’t want to miss. Everything you need to fill your chapter at Fort Bragg with adventures.
Where to park for Mott Lake
If you are coming from Fayetteville, follow Plank Road and there are two parking areas that will be on your right. There’s a sign on the side of the road and you can’t miss the lake so it’s easy to find.
I used ‘Mott Lake’ in Google Maps and it took me to the first parking area (the red text in the map below). This is where I parked and did my hiking from.
However, you can also drive a little further to the other side of the lake and park in the lot on that side (green text in the map below).
This is where I started hiking – I followed the path on the right which started at the parking area
Walk in the woods
When you visit Mott Lake, it’s not a place where you go to do a set trail. It’s more of a place where you can go for a walk in the woods.
I mean that in the sense that it’s not like a park where you have set trails with a map or trail markings for the different connecting trails.
Instead, you simply follow the wide trail from the parking lot. You could walk for 15 minutes and turn around, or walk for hours.
I walked about an hour and a half in, then turned around and returned the same way.
What to expect on the trail
You’ll be walking along a sandy trail surrounded by woods.
The scenery itself was really pretty. There is a lot of nice foliage, scenic views of the lake, and I even saw a deer roaming by which was very cute.
There are a lot of small inlets with sandy beach areas where you could sit by the lake.
The trail is also wide enough that you can drive to them if you don’t want to walk. Though, you’d want to have an off-road car for that. My little sedan would’ve been stuck for sure!
Since the trail is wide enough for a vehicle, it’s pretty easy to follow. And, since the lake is so huge, it’s easy to find your way because you can just keep the lake in your sight. I kept the lake on my left side so I always knew where I was and the direction back to the car.
Water activities
If you’re not into hiking, you could also use the lake for water activities like kayaking or paddle boarding. The water is quite calm so it’d be a relaxing spot for it.
No swimming is allowed.
It’s also a good local spot for fishing. Of course, check local regulations before fishing.
The party place (& why I didn’t like Mott Lake)
The vibe I got was that Mott Lake seems like the place where people go to light a fire and hang out at night.
At each inlet the sandy beachside area told the stories – charcoal remnants of fires, and, unfortunately, a lot of trash.
It was one of the worst trashed nature spots I’ve ever been to and it really brought the vibe down. It wasn’t just an odd beer can or two, it was piles of trash at each spot. And some of the grossest trash I’ve seen on a hike – in the short time I was there I saw a used diaper and also used tampon.
Walking around here was a reminder of how gross people are.
The lake is gorgeous, the scenery in the woods is pretty, then you see pile after pile of trash and it diminishes all that natural beauty.
Just a small amount of the trash
Overall thoughts
In all honesty, because of the grimy vibe from the excessive trash, I didn’t like this one as much as other outdoor areas near Fayetteville.
However, there was still a lot of beauty there to soak in and I’m glad I went. I think it’s a great place to visit if you want an easy nature outing for a walk, dog walk, or even to chill out by the lake.
While I wouldn’t go there again in a hurry, I still think it’s worth visiting while you live in Fayetteville.
Other guides you might enjoy
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Where To Swim At Jordan Lake, NC – Complete Beach Hopping Guide
Here’s Why You Gotta Visit The World’s Largest Strawberry Building In NC
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