Explore The Four Mile Creek Greenway in Charlotte

Four Mile Creek Greenway Running Guide

Set against the suburban spread of South Charlotte, the Four Mile Creek Greenway offers runners a scenic, tree-lined route that flows through 4.7 miles of marshes, shaded forest, and open fields. The greenway follows the gentle twists of Four Mile Creek, weaving through local parks and quiet residential areas, providing a refreshing escape from the city’s pulse.

Starting from the Rea Road trailhead, runners step onto a mix of boardwalks and paved paths, designed to glide over wetlands and through woodland in smooth transitions. Here, nature seems close enough to touch. Turtles sun themselves on fallen logs, while herons and small fish make their quiet rounds in the creek below. These surroundings create a peaceful, immersive environment that pulls you into a different rhythm—one marked by the steady sound of your own footsteps and the occasional hum of wildlife.

The early morning mist adds a quiet magic to the greenway, making it an ideal time for solitude. Yet, by mid-morning, the trail welcomes a steady flow of locals—families, cyclists, walkers—making it a vibrant community space that’s never too crowded. With a mostly flat layout, the greenway is beginner-friendly, perfect for both a casual jog and a serious tempo run. Clear signage and smooth trail connections make navigation effortless, even for first-timers.

Four Mile Creek Greenway is a Charlotte favorite, treasured for its accessible beauty and gentle terrain. It’s a path for runners seeking a refreshing change of pace, where each mile brings new scenery and the chance to reconnect with nature, just a short drive from Uptown. Whether you’re running long or simply unwinding after work, this greenway captures the heart of urban nature, offering a perfect blend of calm and community.

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Adventure Guide Summary

Running Four Mile Creek Greenway

Overview
The Four Mile Creek Greenway stretches through South Charlotte for 4.7 miles, creating a peaceful, accessible trail that follows Four Mile Creek’s natural course. The trail is known for its scenic beauty, welcoming community vibe, and easy connection to local nature within city reach.

Route Details

• Distance: 4.7 miles out and back.
• Terrain: Primarily flat with paved paths and boardwalks.
• Starting Point: Main entrance at Rea Road trailhead.

Trail Highlights

• Boardwalks Over Wetlands: Elevated wooden paths wind through marsh areas, giving runners a close view of the creek and its ecosystem.
• Wildlife Sightings: The greenway hosts various local animals—look for sunning turtles, herons, and, occasionally, deer.
• Varied Scenery: The route alternates between shaded forest, open fields, and creekside views, creating a visually dynamic run.

Best Times to Run
Early mornings provide solitude and calm, with mist drifting over the creek and sunlight filtering through the trees. Late morning and afternoon bring a friendly, community-oriented vibe, though the trail remains peaceful year-round.

Tips for Runners

• Parking: Available at the Rea Road entrance.
• Facilities: Limited restrooms along the trail; plan accordingly.
• Safety: The trail is well-maintained but can become slippery on boardwalk sections after rain. Minimal lighting makes daylight runs preferable.

Getting There
From Uptown Charlotte, take Providence Road south, then turn onto Rea Road to reach the trailhead. The drive takes about 25 minutes, providing quick access to the greenway’s natural charms.

The Four Mile Creek Greenway brings Charlotte’s natural beauty to the city’s doorstep, giving runners a balanced, refreshing trail experience with a touch of wilderness right in their backyard.