Over the water and through the woods 36.8 miles

There are a few ways to link the Raleigh and Cary greenway systems and this loop route uses two of those. Umstead Park is the largest and most peaceful ‘connector,’ but has packed gravel roads that some may not like. The Dynasty/Electra link is a route that uses mostly neighborhood roads and greenways. There are some nice climbs on this leg.

This route turns at Bond Park in Cary. The park has facilities for jettisoning excess coffee, and makes for a good place pause and evaluate options. For a longer ride, the White Oak Creek Greenway leads west from Bond Park, and eventually links to the American Tobacco Trail and downtown Durham.

Lake Crabtree greenway bridge

The Hatcher Creek Greenway crosses ‘over the water’ before linking to Umstead Park for the return trip ‘through the woods.’ Both Bond Park and Lake Crabtree park feature connections with other greenways. Mix and match for variety.