The best traffic-free bike rides in William B. Umstead State Park

There are 15 dedicated no traffic road cycling routes in William B. Umstead State Park, offering a variety of experiences for cyclists. These routes range from easy to moderate difficulty.

The park features a hilly, wooded terrain characteristic of the eastern Piedmont region. Many multi-use trails are paved or consist of crushed limestone, making them suitable for road bikes. You'll find ample shade from pine stands and hardwoods, with routes like the Turkey Creek Loop offering challenging hilly sections and scenic views.

Yes, William B. Umstead State Park offers 8 easy road cycling routes. An excellent option for a more relaxed ride is the Shelley Lake Trail – Shelley Lake loop from Crabtree Valley Mall, which covers nearly 20 km with minimal elevation gain.

The park is rich in natural beauty and historical remnants. You can explore areas around the three man-made lakes, including Big Lake, or follow the winding Crabtree Creek. Historical structures like old water-powered mills and stone dams are also present. The East Coast Greenway Entrance is a significant access point, and the Company Mill Trailhead offers access to other park areas.

For those seeking a longer ride, there are 7 moderate difficulty routes. Consider the Falls Lake Causeway – Falls Lake Causeway loop from Charleston Homes at Alexander Place, which spans over 70 km with more than 500 meters of elevation gain, providing a good workout through varied landscapes.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from 35 ratings. Reviewers often praise the park's extensive network of multi-use trails, the peaceful, wooded environment, and the opportunity to enjoy cycling away from vehicle traffic.

Yes, the park offers several easy routes that are suitable for families. The paved and crushed limestone trails provide a safe and enjoyable environment for cyclists of all ages. The ample shade from the wooded areas also makes for a comfortable ride on warmer days.

Many of the routes in William B. Umstead State Park are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Rivins Lake – Bailey Lake loop from Crabtree Creek Watershed Project offers a substantial 71 km circular ride through scenic areas.

The park has multiple access points. The Reedy Creek Multiuse Trail is a prime example, connecting to the broader Raleigh and Cary greenway systems. You can also find routes starting near the East Coast Greenway Entrance or from locations like the Crabtree Creek Watershed Project.

Yes, William B. Umstead State Park provides various facilities to enhance your visit, including picnic areas, campgrounds, and a visitor center. For more detailed information on park amenities and regulations, you can visit the official North Carolina State Parks website: ncparks.gov.

While most trails are openly accessible, the Piedmont Beech Natural Area, a 61-acre National Natural Landmark within the park, requires a permit for access due to its environmental sensitivity. Always check with the park authorities for the latest information on permits and access restrictions.