Running the Muddy Creek Greenway in Winston-Salem
Running the Muddy Creek Greenway in Winston-Salem
The Muddy Creek Greenway is a well-maintained, scenic trail in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, popular with runners of all skill levels. Stretching approximately 3 miles one way, this paved path follows Muddy Creek, offering a peaceful setting away from city traffic. With its gentle inclines, tree-lined views, and multiple access points, this route is ideal for both casual joggers and serious distance runners. The shaded sections and smooth asphalt provide a comfortable experience year-round.
### Adventure Guide to Running the Muddy Creek Greenway
Muddy Creek Greenway Main Route
- Location: The trail runs from Country Club Road to Robinhood Road, with parking at both ends.
- What Makes It Special: This flat, paved trail is ideal for training runs, tempo runs, or leisurely jogs. Runners enjoy minimal street crossings, allowing for an uninterrupted workout.
- Key Features: Well-marked mileage posts, benches for rest stops, and bridges spanning the creek enhance the experience.
Shaded Sections for Hot Days
- Location: The area between Meadowlark Drive and Country Club Road has some of the best shade cover.
- What Makes It Special: During summer, tall trees keep parts of the trail cooler, offering relief from the heat.
- Key Features: Cooling breezes from the creek, ample tree cover, and lower sun exposure make this stretch a runner favorite.
Ideal Stretch for Speed Work
- Location: The Robinhood Road entrance features a long, straight section great for interval training.
- What Makes It Special: Few curves and gradual elevation changes allow runners to maintain consistent pacing.
- Key Features: Clearly marked distances help runners track performance.
### Local Insights
- The trail is frequented by walkers, cyclists, and families, so weekend mornings can be busier.
- Wildlife sightings include herons, turtles, and deer, adding to the scenic appeal.
- In fall, vibrant foliage provides a stunning natural backdrop for runs.
### Visitor Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Early mornings or late afternoons avoid direct sun exposure.
- What to Bring: Hydration packs, sunscreen, and a hat for sunny days.
- Driving Directions: From downtown Winston-Salem, take Silas Creek Parkway to Country Club Road (about 15 minutes). Free parking is available at both trailheads.
Reviews
Archiea year ago
Trail is fantastic in the middle of the city. It has creek, playground, good picnic & party area, bike rental, dog park. You can see many birds, squirrels, and sometimes small snakes. Good for cycling and family walking. It has a good parking lot and many entries & exits. Lovable throughout the year.
Alfred Schmidt4 years ago
Very pleasant paved path, really suited well for bicyclist, inline skater's, etc.
Both ends lead to private housing developments with "No Trespassing" signs. Not sure if that's enforced, but be aware of it.
Brandy Vestal6 months ago
This is a great place to run. Because of the length of the trail it's probably my favorite Greenway in the area to run. It's easy and flat which is nice for a long slow run.
The bathrooms stay pretty clean but I've started keeping a roll of toilet paper in my car because they do run out of toilet paper.
I do wish there was another entrance on the dog park side so you wouldn't have to plan trips around school hours.
I do wish more people would leash their dogs. I absolutely love dogs but it can be scary running and you see an off leash dog. I don't want them to think I'm running towards them or their human and decide to attack.
I'm guessing Tanglewood must actually enforce their leash rules because you never see a dog off leash on those trails.
Also, occasionally you get a dirt bike rider weaving and speeding between runners and walkers. That's not very often but there was a guy doing it this past Saturday (9/7/24)
Michael Geea year ago
I wish there was less concrete but the views are pleasant along the creek.
Shane Osnoea month ago
awesome easy trail next to the river
