Where We’re Running Around Charlotte
With miles and miles of streets, sidewalks, greenways, and trails, runners around Charlotte are still creatures of habit. That’s great news for folks who are new to town or just visiting; they’re sure to find some paths well-travelled and maybe even some good company.
It doesn’t take exhaustive searching or even knowing much about the area to find great places to run. We did some googling, some heat mapping, and cross-checked that with our own experiences for a short list on where folks are running around Charlotte.
Credit: Our State Magazine
The Booty Loop – Arguably, one of Charlotte’s most well-known and well-trod running loops. Yes, the 3-ish mile loop has a healthy dose of incline, but you’re rewarded by the shade of some of Myers Park’s most beautiful trees. Find it: https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/1705539215
Little Sugar Creek Greenway – This is one route that just keeps getting and better better – and longer. Recent extensions stretch the area’s oldest greenway from NoDa all the way down past the South Carolina state line. Find it: https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/5337933793
Credit: Charlotte Rail Trail
Charlotte Rail Trail – Running along the Light Rail and winding from the heart of Uptown to South End, the 3.5 mile Rail Trail passes breweries, art galleries, restaurants, bars, and some of the swankiest addresses in town. The northernmost point is off E 9th Street between N College St. and N Brevard St. The southernmost point is at the corner of South Blvd. and Clanton Rd. Find it: https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/5312612977
Whitewater Center – With 50 miles of trail spread across more than 1300 acres, the Whitewater Center is more than worth the $6 day parking pass. Make a day of it with lunch or dinner, or get in on some of the seasonal activities, like pond hockey, rafting, SUP, ziplines, music festivals, and more. Trail map: https://center.whitewater.org/plan-your-visit/facility-map/
McAlpine Creek Park and Greenway – One of the OG routes in Charlotte, and home to the McAlpine Creek XC course. A mix of paved path and packed gravel, McApline connects with Cambell Creek Greenway to the north for even more miles. Find it: https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/1616643727
Note: Charlotte also has loads of organized brewery runs and run clubs. Check out the Charlotte Running Club, Run CTL Run or any of the great local running specialty shops for other great places to run!
# # #