A quality rail to trail project, this outdoor attraction adjoins some other parklands, and is far enough from the downtown of any of the nearby metropolitan areas to be relatively quiet and safe and to offer some interesting views of the countryside. Having said that, it's long enough that there are sections of it for which the verdict is apparently different. Everything was in good condition when I visited, though water fountains in the neighboring park were shut off for the winter. read more

American Tobacco Trail - Hiking Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

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At first, I thought the trail would be inundated with tobacco products but learned that it was just the name. The trail goes on forever! We walked for two hours. The scenery was nice and trail was super safe during the day. Highly recommend this trail! There's a lot of trees, bushes, plants, flowers. Some people bike, walk, skateboard, or rollerblade. read more

American Tobacco Trail - Hiking Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

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OK. This trail saved my literal life, lol. I was staying at a nearby hotel and experiencing 12h work days with my team. We love to see it, the hustle, the grind, the capitalism on a j-curve. However, the hotel gym was covered in glass where anyone could see me jiggling and perishing and I do my best jogging outside. I asked my local coworker for a running recommendation and he suggested this trail, saying basically I wouldn't be alone, for better or worse, there are always people on this trail. I needed to be AWAY from work, to clear my head, to improve my mental health and as a bonus, get a little cardio in for my heart. It starts conveniently near the stadium and idk how far it goes because I only did 3mi (1.5mi out and back). I'm somewhat of a nervous, anxious person and I worried mainly about getting stabbed (Portland, OR represent!), being preyed on by wildlife (some of the this-used-to-be-an-old-railroad slices thru the hills made me think of trails where I grew up that had cougars occasionally spotted with the seldom bear). But this trail was so beautiful! The leaves were orangey, there were so many people walking well-behaved dogs and I never felt lonely or at risk. I ran with both headphones in around 7am at a brisk 28 degrees and found the trail wholly lovely. Something I noticed that I loved (and normally don't see, especially in my regular neighborhood route) was the distance marking every .25 mi. It was really nice to know I didn't have to keep looking at my watch to see my distance, I always knew within a 1/4 mi how far out I was from the start. Anyone visiting Durham would enjoy this I think, for walking or jogging, unless you're really looking for something more isolated. If I find myself in Durham again, I'd absolutely do my jogging here, unless it was humid because I live in the PNW and the humidity does not suit my temperament. read more

American Tobacco Trail - From the start to the 1.5mi mark where I turned around - Hiking Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

After riding the Swamp Rabbit Trail in Greenville, SC, the Little Sugar Trail in Charlotte, NC and the Neuse River Greenway Trail in Raleigh, NC, the American Tobacco Trail was a bit of a let down. I biked from Fayetteville Road to Downtown Durham, and I was disappointed with the trails upkeep, how poorly it was marked, how often it crossed streets, how often the crossings were rather precarious, and the trail just had a less pleasant vibe than others. The people on the path were all quite friendly, and there were several very pleasant sections, but overall I felt it could have been better. I would never take children to bike on the section I rode because of the number of places you had to cross streets. And what was most shocking was that at the end of the trail, the American Tobacco Campus, we were unable to find bike racks. read more

We finally checked out the American Tobacco Trail, one of the places in Durham with paved bikeable trails! After reading other Yelp reviews on safer vs. sketchier stretches of the trail, we decided to start out on Saturday morning at the parking lot near Southpoint Mall, off of Fayetteville road. The parking lot there can hold about 10-20 cars or so; we were able to find a space easily. From there we biked south 6 miles and then 6 miles back to the parking lot. The trail is well-marked although at a few parts of the beginning that wrap around Kroger and the shopping center we had to kind of guess where the trail continued. I like that the trail has varied scenery and a few benches or areas to rest along the way too! It crosses the main road only twice or so where you have to keep an eye out for cars. Otherwise it's a separate paved 2-laned trail. Since it's still a bit cold outside there weren't too many people out on the trail, but we did run into a lot of running groups, joggers, and bicyclists. I can see how the trail might get a little congested when it gets warmer. The terrain is mostly flat with a few hilly areas, and the part near Southpoint even has a few lamps. A helpful map of the trail: http://www.triangletrails.org/pdfs/ATT_map_page1-2015.pdf http://www.triangletrails.org/pdfs/ATT_map_page2-edited.pdf We'll be back on a longer bike ride next time! read more

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I love walking on the American Tobacco Trail and there are plenty of entrance points along this 20+ mile stretch. I have also biked on the trail and on some parts near Apex you will see horses. I have parked at the White Oak entrance in Apex and most recently in Durham in Fayetteville Street. I have always wondered where the bridge that crosses 40 goes and just found the entrance near the intersection of 54 and Fayetteville Street. The path is paved and bikers and runners did a good job of announcing "on your left". You pass residential parts and there are a few cross walks where you need to press the light to alert the drivers. All in all, it was a great walk on a pretty fall day and easy to park and navigate. read more

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If you're looking for a nice trail this is it! It's paved...you can walk, run, ride your bike, or skate on it! The trail is pretty long but you can get off and enjoy the restaurants and other stores along the trail. It's perfect to bring the kiddos or walk your dog! read more

Not the heart of the Triangle, but definitely a major artery., providing easy access to nature, enjoyable exercise, and now convenient transport. I currently exercise on the trail more than once a week and previously commuted to work via the ATT. It's enjoyable at any speed and any mode of transport. Be sure to consider/research amenities and restaurants just off the trails, a concept that I hope spreads. read more

The phenomenal greenway system that we have here in the Triangle is really something that sets the area apart from other metropolitan areas throughout the country, and I think it's safe to say that the ATT is the epitome of this system. Basically, the trail provides 22+ miles of awesomeness for bikers, runners, walkers, kids in strollers, teens on skateboards, and weird dudes either on segways or scooters to meander on as it stretches through Durham, Wake, and Chatham counties. A really cool aspect of the trail is that the feel and look of the trail can vary greatly from county to county and even by the half mile at some points. The more traditional paved greenway of the Durham portion is contrasted by the gravel and dirt portions found in Chatham and Wake. As mentioned by other yelpers, there definitely are portions of the trail where you feel immersed in nature despite the fact that you probably aren't too much more than a stone's throw from a road or house. I know I've seen my fair share of snakes, turtles, rabbits, and deer on this trail. The trail is quite well maintained no matter which portion you are on, and the vast majority of the trail has mile markers every quarter mile. How great is that? Like other previous reviewers, I've used this trail numerous times on long run days given its flatness and handy distance markers. Though I've hated the trail on some of those more grueling days, I've always come back for more and apologized to the trail for my previously rude behavior. Since the secret is out as to how great of a resource this trail is, it can get quite crowded (especially on weekends and in the summer). I've also noticed some increased use of the trail right after New Years, though this dies down within a couple weeks (resolutions can only last so long!). No matter how crowded it is, though, there is usually quite a communal feel on the trail with numerous greetings and head nods exchanged (this does not ring true with the sketchy at best crowd around Fayetville Street in Durham). As great as the ATT is, there are plans to make it even more amazing so stay tuned. But in the mean time, get on out there and get your fitness on! Maybe even consider training for the annual ATT half or full marathon... read more

I'm gonna second Matt K. Build the bridge over I-40 for 5 stars. If we could pave over all the abandoned rail in this country for pedestrian traffic like this, that would just be a dream! I love the American Tobacco Trail. I've run, biked, walked, and rollerbladed the entire thing. It's got me through some hard times in my life...I exercise when I'm stressed. Now if it could just get me over 40 without fearing for my life. C'mon ATT, you know you want that 5th staaar! read more

I absolutely love the American Tobacco Trail! It's a perfect little getaway to get yourself submerged into nature, and away from the city bustle and highways. I live just behind the trail by the Southpoint area and LOVE the new foot bridge that was recently completed!! It now connects the trail east of the NC 40 across to the Southpoint Mall! Whatever better way to get exercise on your way to some shopping!? The trail is miles and miles long and takes you into Downtown Durham. On a sunny day in the spring, it's so green and gorgeous, it's perfect for a run or nice walk with your dog. I highly recommend walking the trail off Fayetteville because it connects to Sutton Station where you can take a break for some gelato at Dulce Cafe on a hot day!! read more

American Tobacco Trail - Hiking Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

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Today, as I was beginning my workout on the ATT, I saw a giant black snake crossing my path. I am more city than country, so I was a little freaked out, as he slithered into the grass on the side of the trail. A guy was jogging behind me and I stopped to tell him what I saw... he informed me it was just a rat snake. And I felt silly... well I am considering my American Tobacco Trail cherry: POPPED. I have not traveled the entire trail, I frequent the area that is between miles 10 - 13 on the lower portion (around Fayetteville Rd, Scott King Rd, Chatham County). It is really gorgeous and empowering... so calm and peaceful! If you can't focus on your workout here, I don't know where else you could go! But I would like to remind people that it is NOT paved in many places. Do not wear sandals while you walk on the ATT! I have seen really giant spiders, and from my recent (and first) rat snake sighting, please remember that you are in the WOODS and dress accordingly! Also, look out for horse droppings. It's kinda funny that dogs need to be cleaned up after but not horses? Stepping in dog poo is gross, but step in some horse poo and you have ruined a pair of shoes! (Yes, I know there is probably no practical way for horse riders to clean up after their horses) They have a really great map on their website that shows you where you can park to enjoy the trail. Also if parking is filled up along the Scott King Rd entrance (which it does on a nice day), you can park in Herndon Park. There is a paved path between two baseball fields that goes straight to the trail (under the power lines). read more

American Tobacco Trail - Around mile marker 13, on a summer day - Hiking Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

As far as running trails in Durham, American Tobacco Trail is by far my favorite. Mostly paved and with no sharp hills since it used to be a railroad track. The trail runs through all Durham's "major attractions" (Southpoint to Downtown and beyond). I usually jump on the trail between Cornwallis and MLK and run left or right. I love that the trail is mostly shaded, paved and has no major hills (on some days I just can't do hills, I'm not an expert runner yet people!) I usually see a lot of people biking the trail, especially during prime "get to work" and "get out of work" hours. There are flashing yellow lights that you can hit to let pedestrians cross busy roads and crosswalks over all busy roads as well where the trail cuts through. Depending on where you hit the trail, you may have to cross over roadways every 1-1.5 miles, but again, all dependent on where you pick it up. Along my run, there are several "branch offs" of the trail as well. For example, I have a real hesitation to run past Fayetteville Street when I'm alone, believe me when you see it you'll know why. It just gives me severe warning signs and memories from last years "incidents". But then I'm left in a dilemma as to where to go next. Luckily, ATT has an offshoot on Riddle Road that leads all the way into RTP and offers a seemingly safer path. If you live in Durham, you'll have heard some horror stories about runners getting mugged on the ATT. I NEVER run the trail at night or dusk because of this (plus the trail technically closes at sunset). However, I often run the trail by myself during the day, just keep your wits about you, I always carry my phone. Also, I have seen police patrolling the trail in golf carts, usually heading towards the Fayetteville intersection (glad to know that my instincts aren't skewed) and I've heard since the attacks last summer security has gotten tighter. The only other downside of the trail are lack of water stops and bathrooms. While there are a handful scattered around the trail, make sure you take necessary precautions before your run. And just get out there and DO IT! ATT is a great trail for beginners and intermediate training alike and the mile markers every .25 miles are always kept fresh! NOTE: If you don't live close to or on the ATT, the best place to start is at the beginning. Begins right downtown underneath the highway, across from the Bulls stadium. Park in the parking deck at American Tobacco Campus! Also, if you have a YMCA membership, you can shower up and change at the YMCA too! read more

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So much Fun! What a great trail from downtown Durham to the Streets at South Point Mall. My wife and I had a wonderful time riding the eight mile section of this trail. The trail is well maintained and has mile markers every quarter mile. We found the ride to be very easy, great for beginner cyclists. It took us only 35-40 minutes to casually bike from downtown Durham to the mall. We highly recommend taking some time to enjoy this trail. Enjoy! read more

American Tobacco Trail - Riding the tobacco trail on a warm summer day! - Hiking Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

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This is an absolutely beautiful trail, and it's easy to ride too. That said, many parts of it feel isolated and unsafe, so I only ride my bike on this trail, not walk--I guess I feel safer going a bit faster. Last year there were some truly terrifying reports of people getting bludgeoned by a hammer-wielding mugger. Instead of demanding wallets he'd apparently just hit people in the head with a hammer and rob them. Don't know if he was ever caught. I heard patrols of the trail got stepped up after that, but I never saw any. read more

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The American Tobacco Trial is a great walking, running, and biking spot in the Triangle Area. The pavement is kept in very good condition with no pot holes or rough spots whatsoever. It is clearly marked with lanes so you don't have to worry about people clogging the middle of the trail. It runs right beside our house so we take our dogs on runs and walk almost every week and they love it. They also love being able to be social with other dogs. The only problem is that some people can be rude and stuck up on the trail if they think you are doing something wrong or if they think you don't belong there. read more

NOTE: The previously free parking under the Durham Freeway adjacent to the trailhead has apparently been closed. You will now have to pay for parking on the street (2 hours max) or at the American Tobacco Campus South Lot, $11.25 for the whole day. Weekends may be cheaper or free. I have biked this trail end-to-end and back a couple of times. It is a nice trail, paved for about the northern 2/3ds or so. There are multiple road crossing in Durham as to be expected. As others have noticed, the Durham section seems a little sketchy, but if you are used to big cities, it is no big deal. It is well marked, although the area around where it crosses I-40, and around the mall near there it goes along the road and between some apartments and a strip mall. This is where the rail bed was obliterated when I-40 was built. The southern end is more rural, for now, although large residential developments are being built all along this section of the trail, except the gamelands and close to Jordan Lake. Not a destination ride, but one of the few multi use paths in NC over 20 miles long. read more

Runners, walkers, cyclists, and horseback riders eat your heart out! The best thing that I found in Cary, North Carolina so far. (Besides my 2 year old niece and newborn nephew, but that's just a given.) This all dirt trail spans from New Hill to Downtown Durham. For you NC foreigners, that's 23 miles of all dirt trail! A 46 mile out and back for you ultra marathoners. Wowee! My beaten running feet basked in pleasure as I took on this trail. I've only been on 10 miles of the trail, but as far as I can see it is completely shaded by tall willowing trees. This trail was originally built in 1906 to transport tobacco leaves. The trail was named the American Tobacco Trail to reflect its historical roots. The multi-use trail opened up to the public in 2003. It's wonderful moving along the trail and spotting old tobacco farm houses that are located off the trail. There are also some newer farm houses that fit in with the lay of the land. Also, you will spot horsies taking on the trail, too. It's nice to see that people and animals know how to share a trail properly. Overall: City dwellers like me, be envious. read more

I ran my first practice half marathon on the Tobacco Trail. And my second. And my third. I love you, Tobacco Trail. You make me feel so strong and confident and like I'm out in the woods, and not running parallel to Fayetteville Road! I live near where the trail picks up at Southpoint Crossing, and I always start my runs at the 6.25 mile marker. I've run to the DBAP (0 mile marker) and back on three different occasions. I am kind of awesome. But I digress! My point here is really that, yes, for a while you really are just running parallel with Fayetteville, but then you get back in some wilderness that you never knew existed. It looks like Asheville back there: big trees all draped with verdant kudzu, hot pink rhododendron in the summertime, bridges over small valleys, birds chirping, blue, blue sky. Sometimes I think I could live there. The stretch between when you re-cross Fayetteville at NCCU and when you arrive at the DBAP is a little sketch because some folks---some, just regular folks, others, vagrants, hecklers, addicts, etc.---like to hang out there, so just be aware of your surroundings. And, for the love, they need to build that bridge over I-40 like they've been talking about for the last 10,000 years. I would love to run that side of the Tobacco Trail, but it is far too dangerous to run through the intersection of Fayetteville, 54, and 40, what with there not even being any sidewalks there. Sheesh. I would---hell, I DO---pay good tax dollars to see that project come to fruition. The trail could also do with some more trash cans, recycling bins, and doggie doodie bag clean-up stations. Also, back behind Hillside High, Bull City Running put up a water cooler in a locked cage, so it would stay in place but you could still access the tap to refill your fuel belt while running. That was a godsend, but I'm pretty sure it was just for the Fitness World 5K because I've tried to fill up my belt since and that junk was empty and covered in spiderwebs. It was a mirage and I was stranded in the desert. I drink like a camel, but don't seem to actually retain any of the hydration, so water is very, very important to me. Yeah, so, more water fountains and such would be awesome. Also, more lights, so we can still run at night. And what about some of those emergency call boxes like on college campuses? What, are we made of money? I guess not, but let's just call this my wish list. Predictably, the trail gets packed with families and runners and walkers and roller bladers and bikers and folks doing those weird standing bicycle-scooter things that they swerve around on and threaten to knock you over with. If you're running in the summer, I highly recommend going really early in the morning, before work, before it gets busy, and before the sun rises to bake the black pavement and, consequently, YOU right along with it. Solite Park is on your path, too, and you can stop there to use the facilities, shoot some hoops, or play on the swing set. The Tobacco Trail is full of great landmarks that you can use as distance goals if the mile markers just aren't doing it for you. So, yes, I encourage all of you to get out there and take advantage of this wonderful place. It is a great way to escape the humdrum workaday life without actually going too far from home. read more

In the process is training for a half marathon, there is once a week where I integrate a "bitch day" which is what I call the days where I have to do more than 5 miles. The American Tobacco Trail is a one of my fave places to do those "bitch days" as it seems to make those days less horrific. The path is gravel and shaded a lot of the way which is really nice. It is also super safe-feeling since there are always a lot of people out there, especially on the weekend. You can literally go on it forever, ok not forever but 22 miles, which I have never done. I usually get in trouble because I keep going until I realize that I actually have to turn around to get back to my car. It is super enjoyable though, relaxing and makes you feel like you are away from all the hustle-bustle and you actually think you are in a different state or country for a bit. I highly recommend it for anyone walking, jogging, or biking. read more

Lo and behold. This was literally in my backyard for a year and I didn't even know it! The Tobacco Trail is part of a rails-to-trails project in North Carolina (very cool concept: they take old railroad corridors and transform them into paved bike and walking trails). This trail is not actually limited to the 27713 zip code -- it's pretty tremendous, and spans through Wake, Durham, and Orange counties with varied scenery. It's a great long stretch for a day of biking, or you can enjoy just walking the dog or a stroller through the sections that pass through residential neighborhoods. read more

I've lived by the Tobacco Trail for the past 4 years and it's one of my favorite things about Durham. When I worked in downtown Durham, I used the trail to commute to and from work. It's also great on the weekends for running or getting some exercise. It used to be a railroad so there's no more than a 10-20 degree incline (which is awesome for biking since there are so many hills in the area). Also, it's completely paved from downtown to Southpoint and it's all asphalt (not concrete) which is great for running/walking. It's also nicely shaded for most parts. There are some things worth noting though. It does go through some sketchy neighborhoods but as long as you're not traveling on it during the daytime though, I think it's fine. Also, they're building a bridge over I-40 to connect the northern part of the trail to the southern part of the trail. It was supposed to be done already but they've delayed the grand opening until late 2013/early 2014. If you're in Durham though, I highly recommend checking out this landmark! read more

Beautiful trail! I was in town for a wedding and needed to do a marathon training run. My friend asked around and her runner-friends recommended the American Tobacco Trail. I was concerned about safety as I usually start my runs before 6AM to beat the heat. I needn't have been! As I pulled into the shopping center where Bull City Running Co is located (Google Map it! Southpoint Crossing, 202 W NC Highway 54, Durham, NC 27713), there was a large group of runners getting ready to head out for a training run. I asked one of the group leaders where the trail head was, he pointed to a lamp post, and I headed out for my run. HUGE thanks to him! There are several streets to cross, but if you're out early, there's not much traffic to stop for. However, BE CAREFUL! I had to stop several times on my way back. All the runners and walkers I encountered were super polite and always gave a nod or a good morning. The bikers, however, were some of the worst/rudest I've encountered. Not a SINGLE ONE gave a warning before passing. VERY dangerous! I recommend running without music on this trail so that you have total awareness of your surroundings and can hear approaching bicyclists. I run the Washington and Old Dominion (WOD) all the time and am used to most cyclists shouting out a warning or giving a bell before passing. I was shocked at the lack of it on the ATT. However, I didn't let it ruin my run! One pet peeve (and the loss of the 5th star!).... HATE HATE HATE the name! Surely there was some other industry they could have honored with the naming of this trail. It felt very odd to be doing something for my health on a trail named for a killer..... read more

Lush & verdant with 1/4-mile markers. Woohoo! This trail is so dang handy for distance training, fun-time biking, and general lollygagging. The intersection right at Fayetteville Road between miles 1.75 and 2 (if starting at the American Tobacco Campus) can seem a little unsavory, but the trail is well populated, and everyone seems to mind their own business--I've never been hassled. I do wish it were lit at night, especially given that it is officially open until 10pm and some areas can get totally blanketed in darkness (at least that was the case from Southpoint Crossing 4 miles towards NCCU and back--I know, I know--I should have started the 8 miles earlier in the day). More trash cans would also be nice, but all in all, this trail is just the one of the dandiest gems in the area. read more

Nice well maintained trial that is such a plus for all living around it. Always see people biking, walking, running, whatevering. The part south of 40 is slightly better since it has less road (with cars) interrupting it, and also has a few water fountain stations. It is relatively flat and decently marked. The best part of the trial is definitely going north from around mile 1.0 and into Durham downtown. It is super cool seeing the tall buildings appearing in the distance, especially at the bridge around mile 0.5ish. Great trial. read more

LOVE this trail! Went for a long marathon training run with a couple of people while in the area and was happy with the choice to run here over Umpstead. While the southern few miles are all soft, much of the remaining portions of the trail offer both pavement and soft service, which I really appreciate. While the terrain isn't as hilly as Umpstead, there are still some fairly challenging long climbs. There are restrooms and water fountains along the trail, which knocks it up from a 4 to a 5 for me. There are also quarter mile markers along the entire trail (a little much for me, but it's a nice amenity, especially if running intervals). read more

This is a good place to get some grinding miles in if you're just trying to spin on your MTB. My buddy and I went out today to burn through a quick 10-11 miles. We started at the White Oak parking area and took the trail to Apex and back. No major hills just nice long inclines/declines. It keeps your heart rate up and the legs churning. If you head towards Durham from White Oak you get to the split use/multi-use trail where one side is paved and the other is the packed sand/gravel. That is the only segment that I know of that has any paving. The rest is just packed double track action. read more

YOU GET FIVE STARS WHEN YOU BUILD THE BRIDGE OVER I-40. Hugs & Kisses, Koz read more

I love the Tobacco Trail!! I have walked from mile 6 to about mile 20 (not in the same day). I have a dog, and there are trash cans sporadically throughout the trail that I find to be more convenient than most trails. The mile markers are along the side of the path, as well as painted in the path at some points. Depending upon the area, there is a decent amount of traffic, but I've never felt it to be too crowded. At night it's not lit specifically, although some areas are close to parking lots, roads, etc. Miles 10-15 (approx) are not paved, but still easily walkable. Between Scott King and New Hope Church Road, the area feels more remote, even though you are walking through neighborhoods in Cary. You feel like you're deep in the woods. The area north of Solite Park is a little sketchy, I would not walk it on your own. read more

This is a wonderful trail to have--right out of downtown Durham! I've only been on the about seven miles between the Southpoint area and the American Tobacco Campus in Durham, but that is a really pleasant run, and nice for people who want to bike for long distances or put in a lot of mileage running. Unlike most of the other places to run (in residential areas, downtown) you really do feel like you're a part of nature here, which is nice! And it's really flat and paved in Durham--so it holds up really well, even after it's rained. Parts are shady, other parts can get sunny during the day. It's pretty remote, so bring your own water. As with any trail, runners can be vulnerable, but I've found that it's generally pretty well traveled in the after-work hours. I've always kept my eyes and ears out, but never directly felt unsafe. read more

I love the trail. There are always people walking the trail so you can feel pretty safe. Occasionally you will see the bike police riding around. The only bad thing is that pet owners don't really like picking up after their animals. But all in all a really nice place to run, walk, bike or skateboard. read more

I've run on the American Tobacco Trail twice, once training for the Tobacco Road half marathon, and the other time for the half. I've only ran on the part near White Oak Church Road in Apex, but both experiences were delightful! The White Oak Church Road entrance has restroom facilities, and turning right once on the trail gives you five miles of compacted screenings. Around mile five it's a dead end, and then you can just turn around and head back. This is perfect for long, Saturday morning runs. I really enjoy this area because it isn't crowded, and there's shade! The only downsides is that it's far away from where I live, and I've seen several dogs unleashed. I'm not sure if they were strays or not, but I don't want to have to worry about getting attacked by an unfamiliar dog when I'm on the trail. read more

This has to be my favorite part of Durham. We've trained for many 'a races, tired out our vizsla mix, and enjoyed picnics along the ATT. People are super friendly for the most part although there are a few sketchy parts (e.g. near Fayetteville road intersection). The unpaved part is definitely my favorite and incredibly beautiful with the sun peeking through the tall trees. Run, bike, rollerblade, heck skip if you want to. This is the place to go in Durham to be active and enjoy the beautiful outdoors! read more

The Tobacco Trail is one of my favorite places to run in the triangle. It is clean and inviting. It offers different surfaces for everyone's preferences. It is also perfect for race training as there are many miles to the trail without having to stop too often for cars. When the weather is nice the trail can be quite busy. Just make sure you keep an ear out for passing bicyclists if you are running or walking. I have been on all parts of the trail and I think my favorite part is off New Hope Church road where it becomes all gravel. The trail is completely surrounded by trees making it slightly cooler. It is pretty along this trail especially when the leaves are changing or the flowers are blooming. This trail is great for distance runners however there aren't really hills along the trail do look elsewhere for hill work. read more

I love this trail. When I moved here I trained for my first marathon on it. It is now still a great place to run or go walk with friends and I have also ridden my bike many a time on this trail. It is beautiful and so nice in the summer because of all the shade in most places. There are parks and shops in various places along the way if you have to get some water or use the bathroom which is really helpful. For the most part it's fairly flat so nice for easy long runs. And you have access to it from Durham to Chatham County. I know sometimes it gets a bad rap for being unsafe but I have always felt safe on this trail. Just make sure you're aware of your surroundings and a buddy is always good. So thankful for this trail! read more

This is one of my favorite spots in the Triangle. I like to run on the soft trail sections and even though I live 30 minutes from an access point these days, I still make the trek. It's a nice change from pounding the pavement. This website is helpful for finding addresses for parking areas in the Wake county part: http://www.wakegov.com/parks/att/pages/directions.aspx. That website gives addresses that you can put into your GPS. We usually go to two different access spots - for running one off of the website - this gives a nice soft trail. For biking and a different part of the trail, we park by the Kroger off of I-40 on NC-54. We then bike into Durham and usually enjoy some time in the American Tobacco campus near the Durham Bulls park. This section of the trail is paved. Safety wise, there are some touchy areas on this section of the trail - I usually bike this with my husband. It is fun though. read more

Amazing trail for jogging and biking, it really felt like heaven biking for about 20 miles deep in the forest, great pavement, and amazing views. read more

Beautiful trail where I started by south point mall. Looked kind of magical with all the trees and their shadows like a tunnel kind of. New favorite. read more

American Tobacco Trail - Hiking Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

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Nice trail, not safe with so many off-leash dogs. Every time i go on this trail, i encounter 3-4 dogs that are let off-leash by their owners. Not safe for equestrians, runners or bikers (me). Would be a perfect trail if not for a few dog owners. read more

On 7/8/17 we had unknowingly dropped our wireless car key at the New Hill-Olive Chapel Rd. trail head next to a picnic bench. Upon returning to Durham we realized this, and thought the other end of the trail might be where it was. We used Lyft to drive get back to the New Hill Olive Chapel Rd. trail head (mind you this was several hours later) and to our extreme amazement, someone had found it and left it on the bike rack. I can't possibly express our gratitude to the person who found it and can only hope they read this some day. Thank you thank you! Some of the greatest people in the world on that trail! 5 stars! read more