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Reedy Creek Nature Preserve
4.8 ★★★★★ 1,471 Google reviews · Running trail in Charlotte, North Carolina · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
Confirmed from Reedy Creek Nature Preserve'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.
Creekside walks & fishing spots in woodland with picnic shelters & ruins of pioneer-era cabins.
What runners say about Reedy Creek Nature Preserve
“The trails were simply awesome—well-maintained, clean, and peaceful, making it easy to enjoy the scenery and get some fresh air.”
“There truly is something for everyone at this Park, if you want to take a slight run in the woods, there's beautiful trails to be able to do this with.”
“In the literal sense, there’s NO way to get lost here because the trails are so well marked and maintained.”
“Very peaceful and Lots of trails and variety of activities like golf and fishing and playground for the kids and a basketball court and overall good family-friendly atmosphere”
“Very peaceful and Lots of trails and variety of activities like golf and fishing and playground for the kids and a basketball court and overall good family-friendly atmosphere”
Very nice park, definitely one of Charlotte’s best. There are 7 trails to choose and they aren’t terribly long, which is a good thing if you want some quick a mild-intensity exercise. For a longer experience, one can easily combine the trail loops as they do largely overlap.
This was a nice long weekend trip. They have some fantastic restaurants, great lodging and some good day hikes. If you like to bike they can easily accommodate you. This is a fun town with good lodging. The Reddy Creek area downtown was a place we spent a half day just wandering around
It was lovely here! I'm visiting from NY, and it was nice to see the different fauna. Would come back. The trails are moderate. Hiked in sneakers, no problem, although they got a little dusty. I saw a turtle and a snake.
Reedy Creek is amazing, with plenty of trails to explore. I usually visit 3 to 4 times a week, since moving to Charlotte 5 years ago. They have two large ponds to fish in, and a wonderful nature center.
Trail conditions & character
“Very peaceful and Lots of trails and variety of activities like golf and fishing and playground for the kids and a basketball court and overall good family-friendly atmosphere”
“When driving to the nature center parking lot, it feels as if you are miles outside the city in a remote wilderness.”
“There truly is something for everyone at this Park, if you want to take a slight run in the woods, there's beautiful trails to be able to do this with.”
“Dog owners will appreciate the designated off-leash areas where their pets can run and socialize freely.”
“I love the fact that it was located a bit deep into the park but conveniently located next to the restrooms.”
“Top they are definitely doable; we did it with a stroller and being able to trot so it's definitely fairly easy.”
Plan your run at Reedy Creek Nature Preserve
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- 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.
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Trail mapOfficial trail map
- Websiteparkandrec.mecknc.gov
- Phone+1 980-314-1119
- Social Instagram · Facebook
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.
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