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Mason Farm Biological Reserve Trailhead
4.1 ★★★★☆ 18 Google reviews · Running trail in Chapel Hill, North Carolina · Dawn to dusk
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Mixed
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Dawn to dusk
Confirmed from Mason Farm Biological Reserve Trailhead'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.
What runners say about Mason Farm Biological Reserve Trailhead
The reserve website has a link to submit for a permit to post to your car dash. The entrance is off of the golf course road and requires crossing a waterway. Many of the paths are wide and flat with gravel and benches to take in the surroundings. Paths were lightly trafficked. No dogs or bicycles are allowed.
One of my two favorite birding hot spots in Orange County, NC. This is a nice 2.0+ mile walk through varied habitats including mature and second growth riparian woodland and old fields. The birding is great at any time of year.
Very interesting hike. Lots of diverse habitats. Good mix of gravel trail, sand, boardwalk, and woods. Mostly shady. I went on 95 degree day and for the most part not that bad. Saw quite a bit of wildlife.
Trail conditions & character
“Many of the paths are wide and flat with gravel and benches to take in the surroundings.”
“The North entrance has a small stream you have to drive through to get to parking area which is kind of neat.”
Plan your run at Mason Farm Biological Reserve Trailhead
The practical stuff
- AccessDawn to dusk — the gates close, so do not plan a run that finishes after dark
- SurfaceMixed — more than one surface along the route, so check the segment you plan to run
- 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.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Websitencbg.unc.edu
- Phone+1 919-962-0522
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 6 am–7 pm |
| Tuesday | 6 am–7 pm |
| Wednesday | 6 am–7 pm |
| Thursday | 6 am–7 pm |
| Friday | 6 am–7 pm |
| Saturday | 6 am–7 pm |
| Sunday | 6 am–7 pm |
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