Report 4: Raleigh Greenway the Bent Creek Trail

Capitol Area Greenway – Report four: The Bent Creek Trail 1.3 miles (2.6 round trip)


Background:

For those visiting Raleigh or are new residents of Raleigh not be aware of the wonderful park system and the “Capitol Area Greenway.”

The “Capitol Area Greenway” is a project in process. Started in March 1974 by the city council of Raleigh it has a master plan to make sure that there is open space for residents throughout the city. It is being built one trail, park and community area at a time.

Today the city boasts of at least 46 miles of trails connecting many of the 3000 acres of park land. Over the next few years I plan to follow all of these trails and share my impressions.

After a good start with the master plan, the parks and trails were damaged badly in 1996 by Hurricane Fran. Although a lot of clearing and rebuilding had to occur the years immediately after the storm the city is well underway on its project to create links between the various greenways. Though many of the trails are not yet connected, those that are create wonderful off road access to many parts of the city, especially for bikers and runners.


Bent Creek Trail – Report 4

The Bent Creek Trail is a very pleasant wooded trail that follows Bent Creek from Long Street in the north to the Shelley Lake Loop Trail in the South. There is limited on street parking on Bent Creek Drive.

The trail starts with a well marked entrance. It is paved from end to end. This makes it suitable for nearly any trail user.

The entry way is guarded by beautiful trees on both sides. As we start on our stroll (run, jog, skate, walk, etc.) we notice a stream emanating from a number of a tunnel and a number drainage pipes. This stream is both the continuance of a natural stream (tunnel) and of the resolution of the drainage needed to allow for the building of the city.

No matter it’s origins it is a very pleasant stream most of the time. It babbles and meanders to and fro for more than a mile and a half.