7 running routes I’m obsessed with ever since I moved away from the Booty Loop

Since moving up to the Huntersville area, I’ve been able to check out some routes, and have found plenty of variety in trails and greenways which makes marathon training much more bearable.

Davidson College Trails

They have a 5k and 8k loop. The trails are well maintained and have a tree and cloud cover, which is great when the heat is unbearable.

You’ll see lots of bikers and walkers out there as well. You can easily get a 10-15 mile run through doing a few loops on the trails, or adding on through running around the Davidson campus or through downtown.

Pro tip: Grab some grub and choose from 50 beers on tap at Brickhouse Tavern, or get some local frozen custard at Whit’s after you’re done!

McDowell Creek Greenway

This greenway starts at the Fleet Feet behind Birkdale and goes 1.5 miles out to Westmoreland. It’s easy to add on with a few different side trails, or continue on Westmoreland which links up with Catawba Road.

Pro tip: Grab a cold smoothie at Clean Juice after, or a burger and a beer at Bad Daddy’s.

Caldwell Station Greenway

This is a brand new greenway that starts off of Highway 115 and ends at Highway 21 near the Northcross Shopping Center. The wooded paved trail itself is about 2.5 miles.

Pro tip: Imbibe in a beverage and some grub at Cork & Cask or even head to Waterbean Coffee for a latte or pastry.

North Mecklenburg Park

A large park off of Highway 115 that has softball fields, playgrounds, basketball courts, and a trail used by runners, walkers and mountain bikers.

One loop of this single track trail is between 3.5 and 4 miles.

The trail has its ups and downs, and winds throughout the woods. Just beware of the bikers!

Pro tip: Grab a beer and enjoy the patio at Primal Brewery or get some pizza at The Vinyl Pie after.

Fisher Farms

Fisher Farms is a 200 acre park that is great for walkers, bikers and runners.

There is a 5k course and a 4 mile loop.

Pro tip: Head to downtown Davidson for brunch at Toast or coffee at Summit Coffee.

Lake Norman State Park

Though technically up in Troutman, Lake Norman State Park is enormous. It’s great for hiking, running and mountain biking, offering 30.5 miles of single-track trails. Not to mention, a swimming beach to cool off.

Pro tip: While you’re up in Troutman, check out Randy’s BBQ or check out Ghostface Brewing on your way back south.