Crabtree Creek Trail

The Capital Area Greenway Trail System in Raleigh is home to many open spaces and a long list of recreational trails. One of the longest is the Crabtree Creek Trail, which closely follows the creek of the same name from southeast Raleigh to a residential neighborhood in the northwest of the city. Paved except for a few short dirt sections, this 14.6-mile trail features walks through dog-friendly parks where you and your doggo can linger, several access points with parking available, and shady, pleasant picnic areas. The southeast trailhead is in Anderson Point Park, and its terminus is on Lindsay Road in the northwest of the city. Several restrooms lie at the trailheads and along the path.

Winding mostly through dense forest, you'll be treated to loblolly pine, ash, buckeye, birch and poplar trees, with holly, box elder and dogwood filling in lower down. The most likely spot for wildlife sightings will be at the wetlands surrounding the creek, where you'll see many species of birds, including herons and other waterfowl. Amphibians can be spied plunking off of rocks or basking in the sun: turtles and frogs are common. While chasing wildlife is a no-no, your fur-pup will delight in the many smells and sounds of the critters around you. 

Several other trails intersect with or run close by Crabtree Creek Trail, including the furbulous Neuse River Trail. Quick up-and-down terrain will keep you and your pup interested in your surroundings, and a stroll through Lassiter Mill Park will treat you to glimpses of the remains of the old grist mill and its dam. Crabtree Creek, with its large rock outcroppings and steep slopes will keep you company for the length of the trail. As you pass through city parks, commercial use areas, greenways and residential areas, you'll get a sense of the city of Raleigh's pawrrific diverse culture. Be sure to tote water to drink with you, and clean up bags!

Whether you and your fur-baby hike the entire 14.6 miles of the Crabtree Creek Trail, or jump on or off at one of the many access points, you'll marvel at the solitude possible in the midst of a bustling city, and it's furtabulous!