Running & Cycling in Raleigh: Best Routes & Trails
Raleigh’s extensive greenway system is one of the city’s most impressive assets for active residents. With over 100 miles of connected trails, the City of Oaks offers one of the best urban trail networks in the Southeast.
Neuse River Greenway Trail
The Neuse River Greenway is Raleigh’s longest trail at over 27 miles, running from Falls Lake Dam south through eastern Raleigh and beyond. The paved trail follows the Neuse River through forests, wetlands, and parks, providing a continuous route that serves both recreational users and commuters. The length makes it ideal for long runs and cycling training.
American Tobacco Trail
The American Tobacco Trail runs 22 miles from downtown Durham south through Research Triangle Park and into Chatham County. The trail follows an abandoned rail corridor and connects the Triangle’s communities. While starting in Durham, it’s accessible from Raleigh via connecting trails and provides one of the best long-distance cycling routes in the region.
William B. Umstead State Park
Umstead State Park provides Raleigh’s best trail running experience, with over 20 miles of trails through 5,600 acres of Piedmont forest. The trails range from wide, gradual fire roads to narrower single-track paths with moderate elevation changes. Company Mill Trail and the Sycamore Trail are popular running routes.
The park sits between Raleigh and RTP, making it accessible from many Triangle neighborhoods.
Lake Johnson and Shelley Lake Trails
Lake Johnson Park and Shelley Lake provide shorter, closer-in trail loops popular for after-work runs. The Lake Johnson loop is approximately 3 miles with moderate hills, while Shelley Lake offers a flatter 2-mile loop. Both are well-maintained and lit for extended-hour use.
Crabtree Creek Greenway
The Crabtree Creek Greenway runs approximately 12 miles through central Raleigh, connecting several neighborhoods and parks. The trail follows Crabtree Creek and intersects with other greenways, providing route variety for regular users. The segment through Umstead’s edge offers a taste of the park’s character.
Major Events
Raleigh’s running calendar includes the City of Oaks Marathon and Half Marathon (November), the Rock ‘n’ Roll Raleigh Half Marathon, and numerous charity runs. The Triangle’s cycling community is active with organized rides and the popular Cycle North Carolina event. The Tobacco Road Marathon in Cary adds another major race option.
Tips for Raleigh Runners and Cyclists
Raleigh’s climate offers excellent running conditions from October through May. Summer heat and humidity require early morning starts. The greenway system is the safest option for cycling, as road cycling requires careful route selection. Trail running in Umstead provides excellent cross-training with moderate hills.
The greenway proximity is a significant lifestyle factor for active residents. Explore free activities and factor trail access into your neighborhood search.