Reedy Creek and Loblolly Trail

Anna Walter

Reedy Creek and Loblolly Trail

11/02/22

I love Umstead. It never gets old. I made a last minute decision to go on a trail run Wednesday evening and I knew Umstead was the perfect place. I wasn't sure how long I wanted to run for and knew I had to be mindful of the sunset at 7:00 PM. I laced up my trail runners, grabbed my fanny pack and water, and drove to the trail. I didn't have a specific trail in mind before taking off. I figured I would run out 2 miles then turn around. As I started my run on the Loblolly trail, I quickly realized this trail connected to the Reedy Creek trail. I double checked my inkling on AllTrails (and yes there is service for most of this section of Umstead) and I was correct. Loblolly and Reedy Creek form a steady 4.2 mi loop. So I was able to run a loop...which is always my preference over an out-and-back. I am still a newbie when it comes to trail running, but there are some helpful tips that I've learned recently that I would love to share with you. 𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠. 5/5 𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐞. I parked at the south entrance parking lot of Umstead State Park and started my run on the Loblolly Trail and continued on the Reedy Creek Trail. These trails form a loop. 𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡. 4.2 mi 𝐝𝐢𝐟𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐲. Moderate 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐬. -Trail is 0.5 mi off I-40 -Great for newer trail runners as it has moderately difficult terrain -Very quiet and away from the road noise -Reedy Creek Lake lookout at 3.1 mi mark 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐬. -Last 1.7 mi is on a gravel path AllTrails. Reedy Creek and Loblolly Trail

5.0