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McAlpine Creek Park
4.7 ★★★★★ 2,270 Google reviews · Running trail in Charlotte, North Carolina · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Paved
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from McAlpine Creek Park'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.
114-acre county park with a lake & fishing pier, soccer fields, hiking & bike trails, & a dog park.
What runners say about McAlpine Creek Park
“The trails are well-maintained and surrounded by greenery, making it perfect for both casual strolls and serious workouts.”
“McAlpine Creek Park is a beautiful and peaceful place that I would definitely recommend to others.”
“Great locating for running XC, biking or just a walk in the park.”
“Whether you want to take a peaceful walk, have a picnic, or let your kids play, this park is a fantastic choice.”
“There is plenty of parking on site, a dedicated dog park, and scenic walks.”
I use to live right beside here. The area isn’t considered the “safest” part of town if you live here… but just coming back and enjoying the park alone is nice. They have wooded areas to walk, a nice lake to fish (or sit around), a greenway connection, and a lot of people do cross country running here.
We were here for a big high school cross country meet. We've been here before to run, bike, and fish. GREAT park. Very big, plenty of room to spread out, plenty of parking. Facilities are very well maintained and kept clean.
Our favorite park for a casual stroll with family, I love there are different scenery in one place. You can enjoy the tranquility when walking along the ponds, the mystery when wandering through the woods, or a brisk walk with a friend/furbaby on the dirt paths.
Great place to ride, run and take the dogs. It does get busy on the weekends when the weather is nice. But seems to be plenty of parking even if you have to go to one of the other lots.
Trail conditions & character
“One of the best things is that it’s pet-friendly, so you can bring your furry friends along.”
“McAlpine Creek Park is a beautiful and peaceful place that I would definitely recommend to others.”
“But seems to be plenty of parking even if you have to go to one of the other lots.”
“Whether you want to take a peaceful walk, have a picnic, or let your kids play, this park is a fantastic choice.”
“You can walk along the lakeside, through the woods, or along a paved path.”
“The running and biking trails are great, mostly flat but with enough features to keep your mind occupied.”
“Bathrooms are by the entrance and speed bumps galore.”
Plan your run at McAlpine Creek Park
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- SurfacePaved — asphalt or concrete. Fast and predictable, runnable year-round, and fine with a stroller
- 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, restrooms — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Websitecharlottesgotalot.com
- Phone+1 704-552-8213
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 7 am–8 pm |
| Tuesday | 7 am–8 pm |
| Wednesday | 7 am–8 pm |
| Thursday | 7 am–8 pm |
| Friday | 7 am–8 pm |
| Saturday | 7 am–8 pm |
| Sunday | 7 am–8 pm |
Running trails near Charlotte
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Campbell Creek Greenway Trailhead
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James Boyce Park
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Irvins Creek Greenway
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McAlpine Creek Greenway Trailhead
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Popular paved greenway with a pond, picnic area, restrooms, and dog park, plus wildlife sightings.
Idlewild Road Park
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1.5 miles of groomed trails lure locals to this roomy park known for its play equipment & shelters.