15 Best Trails in Charlotte

Anne Springs Close Greenway at Lake Haigler is a substantial nature preserve just south of Charlotte, with lakes, hardwood forests and an extensive network of outdoor routes. Hiking, cycling, dog walking, horseback riding and picnicking all fit naturally into the setting.

Clarks Creek Greenway is a paved, tree-shaded route in Charlotte following the creek through a quiet wooded setting. The path is suitable for walking, running and cycling, with gentle rises and falls that add some interest without making the route demanding.

Seven Oaks Preserve Trail brings together pine woodland, open clearings, creekside scenery and extended views along Lake Wylie. Bridges, visible paths and interpretive markers give the walk variety, while benches and small waterside picnic areas create natural pauses along the route.

Four Mile Creek Greenway offers a long, largely shaded route through wooded and wetland sections, combining concrete path with wooden boardwalks. The terrain is generally manageable, with mild inclines and declines that work well for walking, running and relaxed cycling.

McMullen Creek Greenway is a family-friendly Charlotte park with an easy network of walking, running and cycling routes. Its creekside setting includes wetlands, wildlife and seasonal changes, with picnic tables, benches and clean public facilities supporting a relaxed visit.

Little Sugar Creek Greenway at Sharon Road West is a peaceful, well-kept stretch beside the water, with an easy path through a more natural section of Charlotte. The route works for walkers, runners, cyclists and dog walkers, with enough space for different activities to share it comfortably.

Campbell Creek Greenway Trailhead opens onto a shaded, scenic route with trees, wildlife, open views and varied terrain. The trail is suitable for walking and cycling, with family-friendly stretches, lakeside scenery and connections to other greenways for visitors who want to extend the outing.

Little Sugar Creek Greenway at Brandywine is an easy, paved route following the creek through a mix of sun and shade. Smooth surfaces, gentle rises and useful bridges and tunnels make it accessible for walking, running and cycling, while dogs are welcome outside.

The trail has enough room for families, runners, cyclists and dog walkers to share the path, making it a versatile choice for a relaxed local outing or a longer ride.

Backyard Trails is a neighbourhood-accessible park in Charlotte centred on narrow, technical single-track routes. Roots, sharp turns and changing trail conditions create a more demanding ride than a typical paved greenway, making it better suited to confident mountain bikers than casual cyclists.

Lower McAlpine Creek Greenway is an easy Charlotte route through marshland, woodland and quiet creekside scenery. Wide paved and boardwalk sections make it comfortable for walkers, runners, families and cyclists, while benches, waste stations and public facilities support a longer visit.

The trail connects with nearby greenways and offers several access points, giving visitors flexibility to choose a short section or continue further. Dogs are welcome, and the surrounding wetlands bring opportunities to spot deer, turtles and other wildlife.

Mallard Creek Greenway’s East Terminus provides a shaded, nature-rich starting point for walking, running and cycling. The trail follows the creek through attractive woodland, with a mixture of paved and gravel surfaces, broad paths and plenty of wildlife.

Little Sugar Creek Greenway’s South Boulevard Connector offers a peaceful, well-maintained walking and cycling route through a busy part of Charlotte. The path links parks and nearby neighbourhoods, giving it value for both everyday exercise and longer city walks.

Dogs are allowed outside, and the route balances pockets of greenery with easy access to urban amenities and transport connections.

Toby Creek Greenway at the Ruth G. Shaw Trailhead is a smooth, shaded route running through the UNC Charlotte area. The paved path includes bridges, tunnels and workout equipment, while its connection with Mallard Creek Greenway makes it possible to extend a shorter trail visit into a longer ride or walk.

Irwin Creek and Stewart Creek Greenway Trailhead 2 provides an easy, leafy route through Charlotte, with greenery, an old railway feature and a peaceful atmosphere. The trail suits a local walk, light exercise or dog outing, particularly for visitors living nearby.

Its connection towards Splash Landing and Uptown Stadium adds urban access, while the route remains more relaxed than a city street. Dogs are allowed outside, although care with cleanliness is important along the shared path.

Lower McAlpine/McMullen Creek Greenway is a family-friendly section of Charlotte’s connected trail network, with creek views, wetlands and attractive boardwalks leading through quieter natural surroundings. The route is suitable for walking, running and cycling, with easy terrain and several places to pause.