Four Mile Creek Walk - Brisk 5 Miles

We'll gather at the trailhead on Rea Road near Piper Glen, at the end of the greenway parking lot (where the colorful outdoor chairs are). From there it's a gentle walk on a combination of concrete and wooden boardwalks.

Route:

We'll go from the meeting spot, 2.5 miles in (somewhat past the turn-off to Pike's Nurseries, to the 3.25 mile marker), then stop for a short break, turn around and head back. Roundtrip distance will be approximately 5 miles. There is almost no elevation. Optional gathering afterwards at Starbucks.

Notable Wildlife:

Barred Owls, Great Blue Heron, Green Heron, Pileated Woodpecker, Frogs, Red-tailed Hawk, Deer and on rare occasions Beaver.

Park Rules:

Walkers must stay to the right and center of the trail. Dogs are allowed if they are well behaved and stay to the far right. Beware of bikers and runners on the left side.

Difficulty and Pace:

Make sure you are able to walk a brisk 5 miles at a 16 minute-per-mile pace without taking multiple breaks or shortness of breath. If you are unsure please check with a doctor.

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Meet at trailhead across the street from Starbucks (same shopping center as Trader Joe's):

We meet across the street from the Starbucks at 6432 Rea Rd, Charlotte, NC 28277, corner of Rea Road and Bevington Place. There is another Starbucks off Rea Road in Stonecrest which is not the one you want. Look for us gathered where the colorful chairs are at end of greenway parking lot.

Parking:

Plan to arrive early since parking is limited. You may park on Bevington Pl. on the side across the greenway. There is also space at the adjacent greenway lot on the corner of Bevington Pl and Rea Road. And there may be some parking behind Trader Joe's.

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Directions:

From the center of uptown Charlotte take East 3rd Street til it turns into Providence Road. After 1 mile turn left to stay on Providence Road then continue for about 6 miles til you intersect Rea Road. Turn Right on Rea Road and then after 2 miles take a left to stay on it. You'll cross over Pineville Matthews Road and pass a big pink Calvary church on your right. Next traffic light you'll turn right and see the parking option ahead.

Bathrooms/ Water:

There are toilets at the greenway parking lot in addition to a water fountain.