Running the House Creek Greenway in Raleigh

The House Creek Greenway is a key segment of Raleigh’s extensive greenway system, offering runners a scenic and well-maintained route through wooded areas, parks, and alongside peaceful creeks. This 2.9-mile stretch connects Shelley Lake to the Reedy Creek Trail, making it an ideal location for both casual joggers and serious distance runners. With a mix of paved paths, gentle inclines, and shaded sections, it provides a refreshing way to experience the outdoors while getting a great workout.

Adventure Guide to Running the House Creek Greenway

Starting Point: Shelley Lake Park

Location: 1400 W. Millbrook Rd, Raleigh, NC
Why It’s Special: Shelley Lake serves as a beautiful launching point, with paved trails surrounding the water. The sight of kayakers and wildlife adds to the park’s appeal.
Key Features: Restrooms, water fountains, and parking are available. The Greenway starts here with a gentle incline heading south.

Challenging Hill Section Near Glen Eden Pilot Park

Location: Glen Eden Pilot Park, 1500 Glen Eden Dr, Raleigh, NC
Why It’s Special: This section provides one of the few challenging inclines in the route, perfect for hill training. Runners enjoy a secluded, wooded path with minimal traffic.
Key Features: Well-paved asphalt surface, moderate elevation change, and a peaceful atmosphere away from busy streets.

Connection to Reedy Creek Trail

Location: Underpass at Wade Avenue, near Meredith College
Why It’s Special: This connects House Creek Greenway to the long-distance Reedy Creek Trail, leading to Umstead State Park. Run here to extend your workout into a longer endurance run.
Key Features: A scenic underpass, route markers guiding you to Reedy Creek, and shade-covered portions ideal for warm weather runs.

Local Insights

House Creek Greenway was developed to improve connectivity between Raleigh’s parks and neighborhoods, making it easy for runners to enjoy long, uninterrupted routes.
The trail is popular with local running groups, especially on weekends.

Visitor Tips

Best Times to Visit: Early mornings provide the coolest temperatures and least crowded conditions.
What to Bring: Good running shoes, water bottle, and bug spray in warmer months.
Directions: From downtown Raleigh, take Glenwood Ave west to Millbrook Rd (approx. 15 mins drive). Parking is available at Shelley Lake.