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Williamson Preserve
4.7 ★★★★★ 216 Google reviews · Running trail in Raleigh, North Carolina · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Mixed
- Loop distance
- 4 mi
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
Confirmed from Williamson 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.
Tranquil wilderness area featuring trails for hiking and mountain biking (and horseback riding).
What runners say about Williamson Preserve
“The trails are well-maintained and offer a variety of beautiful views, from serene ponds to vibrant meadows and lush forests.”
“The trails are well-maintained and offer a variety of beautiful views, from serene ponds to vibrant meadows and lush forests.”
“The trails are well-maintained and offer a variety of beautiful views, from serene ponds to vibrant meadows and lush forests.”
“Last 2 sections will make you tired and you'll be happy to be back on the easy trails again.”
This is quite the little gem that we didn’t know about until some poking around on Google Maps. We are so glad we checked it out because the trails were great. There are a few different trails that can be combined together to go further or shorter depending on how long you’d like to be out.
Less rocks and roots than other trails. Good flow through first sections. Last 2 sections will make you tired and you'll be happy to be back on the easy trails again. Fun 13 mile workout. Favorite trail in the area. Well maintained and easily navigated. Signs at every crossing. DIRECTIONAL!!
Williamson preserve is a solid beginner mtb trail system. Very little elevation, with a few optional features scattered about to keep done entertained. This is perfect for getting new friends into mountain biking as the trail isn't hard at all very smooth and well maintained.
The trails are well-maintained and offer a variety of beautiful views, from serene ponds to vibrant meadows and lush forests. It's the perfect spot for a peaceful walk or a day of exploring nature. The diversity of landscapes keeps the experience interesting and refreshing. Highly recommend visiting.
Trail conditions & character
“The trails are well-maintained and offer a variety of beautiful views, from serene ponds to vibrant meadows and lush forests.”
“NOTE: there's no paved trails or asphalt parking lot, so I wouldn't recommend it for wheelchair users.”
“The trails are well-maintained and offer a variety of beautiful views, from serene ponds to vibrant meadows and lush forests.”
“If you have dogs, be sure to bring bags to pick up after them.”
“NOTE: there's no paved trails or asphalt parking lot, so I wouldn't recommend it for wheelchair users.”
“Less rocks and roots than other trails.”
“We like the two-pond loop to walk (about 3/4 mile one way).”
“NOTE: there's no paved trails or asphalt parking lot, so I wouldn't recommend it for wheelchair users.”
Plan your run at Williamson Preserve
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- SurfaceMixed — more than one surface along the route, so check the segment you plan to run
- Loop distance4 mi back to where you parked
- 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.
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitetriangleland.org
- Phone(919) 908-8809
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Running trails near Raleigh
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Turnipseed Nature Preserve - Hunt Valley Trail Entrance
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Neuse River Trail - Capital Area Greenway
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Walking and running route that’s mostly shaded and leads to a sunflower field.
Clayton River Walk on the Neuse Greenway
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Waterfront park, paved and gravel paths popular with cyclists and dog walkers, plus birdwatching.
Clemmons Educational State Forest
4.3 ★★★★☆ 106 reviews
State park featuring a forest with trails for hiking, a lake with turtles, and picnic facilities.