Blog: Feature Stories

National Trails Day is Saturday, June 7—and that’s a good enough reason as any to check out the unpaved natural beauty Charlotte has to offer runners of all kinds. Whether you’re new to trail running or you’re full-on into it, the Queen City’s got a pretty incredible range of options. 

“You can enjoy the trails comfortably 12-months of the year,” Bill Bartee over at Jesse Brown’s told us. He’s outfitted many an adventure from his SouthPark shop. “A little more prep in the winter, and a little more hydration in the summer – even if it’s just so you can eat a little more ice cream.”

We can abide.

Here are five unique Charlotte-area trails we feel every runner should try. From beginner-friendly to more advanced, we believe each of these trails has its own personality and perks. Even if they don’t have ice cream. 

Evergreen Nature Preserve

Best for: Beginners, runners who want a peaceful trail escape with little chance of losing their way 

Tucked away in east Charlotte, Evergreen Nature Preserve is a hidden gem for those seeking a gentle introduction to trail running, or a quick couple of unpaved miles before heading to work. It’s like that favorite fishing spot or dive bar you want to keep to yourself… but can’t. The trails here are mostly flat and well-marked, winding through lush woods and wetlands. The 77-acre preserve offers about two miles of soft-surface trails, making it ideal for newer runners or anyone looking for a short, scenic loop without the risk of getting lost. Expect birdsong, wildflowers, a couple of runnable hills, and a sense of being “away from it all,” just minutes from uptown. 

Colonel Francis Beatty Park

Best for: Intermediate runners, those who want variety and lakeside views and a guided tour

Located in Matthews, Colonel Francis Beatty Park features a network of trails that circle picturesque lakes and meander through mature forests. The main loop is about 5 miles, with options to add or subtract distance. The terrain is rolling with some rooty sections and gentle hills, offering a bit more challenge without being overwhelming. This park is a favorite for runners who want to build confidence on singletrack and enjoy a mix of scenery.

Bonus: Chad Champion leads the Charlotte Running Club’s weekly, Wednesday morning trail run here, and has for more than 5 years. “There’s no better way to start your day,” he told us! 

East Main Trail at U.S. National Whitewater Center (USNWC)

Best for: Runners seeking a well-maintained, social trail system with options for more mileage

Yes, the USNWC is a trail runner’s playground, boasting over 40 miles of singletrack across 1,300 acres along the Catawba River. But we’re big fans of the East Main trail, one of the OG loops at the center. You’ll get rocks and roots, ups and downs, twists and turns here on this nearly 6 mile loop. And if you’re feeling cheeky, you can tack on another 6 miles. The trails are well-marked, directional, and shared with mountain bikers, but we’ve found plenty of solitude here over the years, since most folks access trails on the “other” side of the parking lots. It costs to park, but there’s also access to a locker room and showers so you don’t have to roll home dirty.  

Stevens Creek Nature Preserve

Best for: Nature lovers, families, and runners who want a peaceful, flowing trail experience. 

Stevens Creek Nature Preserve in Mint Hill offers a tranquil setting with about 3 miles of natural-surface trails winding through forests, meadows, and alongside Stevens Creek. The trails are beginner-friendly but include enough rolling terrain to keep things interesting. If you’re into it, there are interpretive signs along the way highlight the area’s ecology, making this a great spot for runners who appreciate learning about local wildlife and habitats as they go. It’s also home to OMR Ultra’s “Dirt Church” every Sunday. 

Backyard Trails (BYT)

Best for: Those craving technical terrain and adventure … just a few steps from SouthPark

If you’re looking for a little more challenge, the Backyard Trails—affectionately known as BYT—are a must-do. These trails, located near Park Road Park, and aren’t far from Madison Park, Park Road Shopping Center, and SouthPark. Known for their tight twists, punchy climbs, and technical features, expect roots, rocks, and the occasional log-over, with a labyrinthine layout that rewards a sense of adventure. Note: they’re popular with the mountain bike crowd, too, so stay alert. The BYT is best for runners with some trail experience who want to push it a little and don’t mind getting a little lost (or muddy) in the process. Thanks, Tarheel Trailblazers for keeping it real out there! 

Whether you’re just starting out or seeking your next big challenge, trail running could be your thing. Charlotte area trails have something for just about everyone, too. Did your favorite trail miss this list? Let us know, or hit us up at ed@runcharlotte.com 

The following is reprinted with the permission of Charlotte Running Club and with collaboration from the team at Elizabeth 8k– Ed

Before the start of the Elizabeth 8k, an unexpected medical emergency unfolded as a volunteer experienced a seizure. The event took place in close proximity to the Charlotte Running Club (CRC) tent, where Dr. Katie Moore, an oncologist with Novant Health and member of the CRC, was warming up with friends. Leveraging her medical expertise, she promptly tended to the individual, and was quickly supported by Novant Health’s EMTs which were also on site for the race. Simultaneously, 911 was immediately contacted, and within minutes, paramedics were on location, ensuring comprehensive care for the affected volunteer.

This incident underscores the importance of being prepared for medical emergencies, both on and off the course. In the following interview, Dr. Moore shares her expertise on how to be prepared in case of a medical emergency so first responders can properly assist you or your fellow runners.

CRC: When you responded to the young man and looked at his phone and wallet, what were you looking for?

Dr. Moore: At that moment, I was trying to identify him and gather any medical information that could help guide care. I was looking for an ID, emergency contacts, or medical alerts—anything that could give context to what was happening and be passed along to first responders. I checked his iPhone to look for emergency medical information. Apple allows users to store health details—like conditions, allergies, and emergency contacts—that can be accessed even when the phone is locked. It’s a great tool more people should take advantage of. Unfortunately this gentleman did not have this activated on his phone and we were able to ascertain little information about him and nothing about his medical history. 

CRC: Do you recommend something like a Road ID, and what should be on it?

Dr. Moore: Yes—tools like Road ID are incredibly helpful, especially for solo runners. I recommend including your name, an emergency contact, major medical conditions (like epilepsy or diabetes), allergies, and any medications that would be important in an emergency. It only takes a few seconds to read but can make all the difference.

CRC: What are some warning signs runners should watch for—especially when running alone?

Dr. Moore: Your body will usually give you clues when something’s wrong—you just must listen. Red flags include dizziness or lightheadedness, fatigue that isn’t normal, decreased sweat in a hot environment (heat stroke potential), shallow breathing, chest pain, difficulty catching your breath, elevated HR not normal for the workout you’re doing, blurry vision, nausea and vomiting. 

CRC: What can runners do before, during, and after runs to help prevent medical issues?

Dr. Moore: Here are some helpful steps to take:

• Before: Hydrate, eat if needed, warm up, and let someone know your route.
• During: Pace yourself, stay aware of how you feel, and listen to warning signs.
• After: Cool down, rehydrate, and pay attention to lingering symptoms.

Always stay in tune with how you’re feeling. If something feels wrong, stop. Don’t try to push through. If you’re alone and concerned, call 911. If you can, contact a friend. It’s better to pause a run than risk your safety. As runners, we are used to pushing through discomfort, but listen to your body, sometimes it is trying to tell you something more serious. 

CRC: Why is CPR Certification worth it for runners?

Dr. Moore: You never know when an emergency might happen—on a run, at the gym, in your neighborhood, or even at home. Getting CPR certified gives you the tools to step in and help when every second counts. For runners, it’s especially valuable since we’re often out in the community, sometimes in remote areas or among people pushing their physical limits. But beyond running, these skills can make a life-saving difference in everyday situations. It’s simple to learn, quick to do, and could help you save a life—on or off the trail. 

From Rob Zabel, Race Director of the Elizabeth 8K

“I’d like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Katie Moore for her swift and effective response during the recent medical emergency. Her actions, coupled with the immediate support from Novant Health’s EMTs, underscore the efficacy of our medical emergency strategy and plans.

Although medical professionals remain ever-ready, incidents might not always occur in their immediate vicinity, especially on extended race courses. In such instances, the timely reaction from fellow runners can substantially influence outcomes. Consequently, it’s imperative for everyone to be well-versed and prepared to respond responsibly. Fortunately, in this instance at the Elizabeth 8K, the response was quick and the individual is doing well. 

Let’s continue fostering safety and awareness within our running community.”

Well, here we are on the cusp of the really warm weather. Granted Memorial Day weekend is the “unofficial” start of summer, but the heat will likely be on us good well before the calendar turns the page on the new season. But with a little bit of planning, you can weather the summer weather like a pro.

Take Time to Acclimate 

Depending on how well you handle changes in the heat and humidity, it may literally take a couple of weeks to get used to the weather. This is particularly important if you’re new to the area, or new to running. Bottom line, take your time and don’t get discouraged. A simple but effective strategy is shortening your regular runs or slowing your pace until you get used to the warmer weather. 

Hydration is Key 

Yes, hydration is a year-rounder, but it’s even more important when the weather warms up. You’ll want to add more liquids to your pre- and post-run routines this time of year. You’ll want to make sure you’re well-hydrated before your run even starts. Consider adding handheld water bottles for shorter runs and hydration packs for longer runs. 

Play it Safe in the Sun 

If you asked most runners, they’d say they’re pretty good about applying sunscreen when they’re going out to spend some time in the sun. Most of us aren’t as consistent when it comes to diligent sun safety on our daily runs. Fact is, sunscreen and good sun safety lowers our risk for skin cancers and keeps your skin looking younger longer. And that goes for all skin types and colors, too. 

Try the Trails 

Chasing shade is a little easier when you’re in the woods. And before you say, “trail running isn’t my thing,” we’re quick remind folks that not all trails are hard core, rocky, root-covered, and off the grid. Short, shaded, off-pavement loops can be found at Evergreen Nature Preserve in east Charlotte; Boyce Road Park Trails off the McAlpine Creek Greenway, just south of Cotswold, just to name a few. There’s even a weekly meet-up at Col. Francis Beatty trails with the Charlotte Running Club.

Take it Inside

There are some days when the weather’s just too much, the heat index is too high, or the air quality is just too poor for a quality or even safe run. That’s the universe telling you it might be better to take a day off or take your workout indoors. There are plenty of fun and efficient workouts you can do indoors that don’t require a gym membership or even special equipment. 

We were left with more than a few questions after last week’s article on meat sticks. Even after answering some of the bigger picture stuff like, are they just Slim Jims dressed up at higher price points; what should we look for on the package; and, are meat sticks really a good protein source for runners?

After all of our interviews we still had one more question: how do they taste? There’s only one way to know, so we dove into taste-testing the most highly-rated and recommended meat sticks. Specifically, the ones we could find at our neighborhood Publix. We opted for the smaller, single-serve types, since we had to eat a lot of meat sticks for this article. 

Meat Stick Taste Test Methodology

We rated our selections on convenience, chew (the way it felt to actually eat it); ratio of calories, fats and protein; and taste. Then, we gave each an overall composite score to determine the overall “best.” Not an exact science, but we’re going with it.

CHOMPS Original Beef Mini Sticks

Convenience: 4/5 – Yes, 6 individually-wrapped servings in a pouch is a lot of packaging. But it is convenient. 

Chew: 4/5 – These actually had a little “bite” to them. Not in a spicy way, but in the sense that you needed to chomp down on them just a bit. Careful taking them out of the individual wrapper. They’re a little slick.

Calorie, Fat, Protein Ratio: 4/5 – Serving is 1 meat stick @ 45 calories, with 3g of fat and 4 grams of protein 

Taste: 4/5 – Pretty good flavor. Not too salty, not too fatty-tasting. 

Composite: 4 – Overall, good choice. 

Country Archer Provisions Grass-Feb Beef MINIS

Convenience: 5/5 – Individually-wrapped servings in a pouch. But with 8 sticks per package. 

Chew: 4/5 – It takes a few more PSI to bite through the Country Archer MINIS, but it’s a satisfying, not-quite-beef-jerky bite. Sticks are smooth, but not slippery. 

Calorie, Fat, Protein Ratio: 4/5 – Serving is 1 meat stick @ 45 calories, with 3g of fat and 4 grams of protein 

Taste: 4.5/5 – Mild flavor, but a little more complex than the others.

Composite: 4.375 – The 8 servings per package had us from the jump, but the well-rounded taste sealed the deal.

CHOMPS Original Turkey Mini Sticks

Convenience: 4/5 – Individually-wrapped servings in a pouch. 6 per package, like their beef counterpart.

Chew: 5/5 – Just right, in our opinion. Just enough give, a satisfying chew, and no slippery mouth feel.  

Calorie, Fat, Protein Ratio: 5/5 – Serving is 1 meat stick @ 35 calories, with 1.5g of fat and 5 grams of protein 

Taste: 4.5/5 – Mild flavor, with no “poultry” taste. Even the most beef-centric types would dig it.

Composite: 4.62 – Maybe it was the surprisingly good taste, but it’s hard to argue with the 5 grams of protein in a low-cal and low-fat package. 

DUKE’S Original Recipe Smoked Shorty Sausages

Convenience: 2/5 – No individually-wrapped sausages, but 12 weenies swimming around in a single package isn’t terribly convenient. Neither is the need to refrigerate after opening. 

Chew: 3.5/5 – These look like mini hotdogs that spent a little too much time on the grill. But they bite easily, with no greasy taste. 

Calorie, Fat, Protein Ratio: 3/5 – Serving size is 2 meat sticks @ 130 calories, with 11g of fat and 7 grams of protein 

Taste: 5/5 – Honestly, the best-tasting. But, this is a pork sausage, and we have lots of feels for that. 

Composite: 3.37 – With all the fat, these probably aren’t the best choice for mid-run snacking. And the lack of single-serve convenience is a bummer, too.

Overall Winner

Interestingly, we’re going with the CHOMPS Original Turkey Mini Sticks for the win here. Even if all things were equal, we’d still preferred the mild flavor versus the others we tried. We expect these will be a regular part of our long-run fueling strategy during the sodium-depleting days of summer. 

Did we miss a meat stick brand that deserves a test? Let us know! Hit us up at ed@runcharlotte.com