The best running trails around Raleigh

Enjoy an easy jogging experience on the Shelley Lake Trail, a paved loop that takes you around the picturesque 53-acre Shelley Lake. This route offers continuous water views as you move between shaded forested sections and open fields, providing diverse natural beauty. Covering 2.2 miles (3.5 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 91 feet (28 metres), it's perfect for a quick outing. You can expect to complete this easy trail in about 22 minutes.

The trail is well-maintained and primarily paved, with some boardwalk sections to keep your feet dry. You will find restrooms conveniently located near the lake, making your visit more comfortable. The park also provides picnic areas and a playground, perfect if you are visiting with family. Parking is generally accessible, though be aware that some connecting paths from the parking lots to the main trail might have steeper inclines.

As you jog around Shelley Lake, keep an eye out for the local wildlife that calls this area home. You might spot geese and various bird species enjoying the water and surrounding habitat. There is even a notable bald eagle nest located at the north end of the lake, offering a unique viewing opportunity.

Embark on an easy jogging experience along the Reedy Creek and Blue Loop Trail, a 2.8-mile (4.5 km) route that takes about 30 minutes to complete. You will encounter a gentle elevation gain of 205 feet (62 metres) as you move through varied natural, wooded environments. Keep an eye out for the unique blend of art and nature, especially the outdoor art exhibits and the beautiful Sculpture Garden at the North Carolina Museum of Art, which adds a cultural dimension to your run.

For your convenience, parking is readily available at the North Carolina Museum of Art, offering direct access to the start of the trail. This well-traveled route provides a pleasant mix of shaded sections and slight elevation changes, making it enjoyable at various times of the day. Since it is an easy and relatively short loop, you can fit this jogging route into a busy schedule without much planning.

The Reedy Creek and Blue Loop Trail stands out for its integration within the Ann and Jim Goodnight Museum Park. This unique setting allows you to combine your jogging routine with an appreciation for outdoor art. It offers a refreshing way to engage with both nature and culture in one accessible location.

Prepare for a challenging jogging experience on the Company Mill and Loblolly Trail Loop. This difficult route spans 10.0 miles (16.0 km) and features a significant elevation gain of 685 feet (209 metres), taking approximately 1 hours and 55 minutes to complete. You will navigate varied and rugged terrain, with sections of exposed roots and rocks as you jog through rolling, forested hills. The trail meanders alongside Crabtree Creek, offering the sounds of flowing water and a glimpse of an old mill from 1810. Heavily shaded by loblolly forest, the route provides a sense of seclusion, making for an engaging run.

This popular local trail is easily accessible, located conveniently within Raleigh's city limits, making it a great option for a quick natural escape. General parking is available directly at the trailhead, so you can start your adventure without delay. Be sure to plan your visit to allow ample time to enjoy the full loop, especially given its difficult rating and duration. Consider an early start to make the most of your time on the trail.

The Company Mill and Loblolly Trail Loop offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. As you jog, you will pass through a dense loblolly forest, providing a cool canopy even on warmer days. The trail's path along Crabtree Creek also allows you to observe remnants of an 1810 mill, connecting you to the area's past. This route stands out as a rewarding workout within a secluded, yet easily reachable, natural setting.

Lace up your jogging shoes for the Sal's Branch and Sycamore Trail Loop, a moderate 7.3-mile (11.7 km) route that takes you through the heart of William B. Umstead State Park. You will experience classic North Carolina forest scenery, transitioning from younger forest views on Sal's Branch to more varied terrain along Sycamore Creek. Expect a dynamic jogging experience with gently rolling sections and some technical stretches featuring roots and rocks, all while gaining about 330 feet (100 metres) in elevation.

This loop is designed for convenience, starting and ending right at the William B. Umstead State Park Visitor Center. This means you have easy access to parking and restrooms before and after your 1 hour and 18 minutes of jogging. The park is a popular spot, so consider an early start to enjoy the trails with fewer people, especially on weekends.

The Sal's Branch and Sycamore Trail Loop combines two well-loved paths, offering a diverse escape into nature from urban life. As you jog, you will pass by Big Lake on the Sal's Branch section and enjoy peaceful paths alongside Sycamore Creek and Sycamore Lake. This route provides a refreshing blend of natural beauty and a good workout, making it a cherished retreat for local joggers.