Running the House Creek Greenway in Raleigh

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.