Hiking with Kids Open
Mine Creek Trail, Sawmill Rd Access, Greenway
4.8(18)4.8 out of 5 stars, 18 reviews Raleigh, NC
About Mine Creek Trail, Sawmill Rd Access, Greenway
This natural greenway offers a dual experience with both rugged unpaved trails through woods, along a creek, over bridges, and down to the water's edge, alongside smooth asphalt walkways. It's highly valued for its peaceful atmosphere, exceptional cleanliness, and diverse activity options, including hiking, cycling, and even specific hobbies like RC crawling. It also serves as a connection point to larger trail systems, such as the paved path to Shelly Lake.
What parents should know
Summarized from real visitor reviews.
Best for: Families with active children who can walk independently and enjoy nature walks and hiking.Dog owners seeking a natural, unpaved trail experience for their pets.Parents looking for a peaceful, clean, and free outdoor environment.Enthusiasts of cycling, running, roller blading, and skateboarding.Families interested in unique outdoor hobbies like RC crawling.
Why families love it
- Offers a versatile terrain with both natural, unpaved trails (through woods, along a creek, over bridges, to water's edge) and paved asphalt walkways.
- The environment is exceptionally clean; reviewers consistently note it is 'not trashed' and 'very clean'.
- Provides a very peaceful and beautiful natural setting.
- Welcomes dogs on the trail.
- Features excellent and easy parking, rated 5/5 by a reviewer.
- Offers opportunities for observing natural wildlife like snakes and deer, particularly during warmer months.
Insider tips
- **Stroller Use:** Avoid bringing strollers or push cars if you plan to explore the unpaved, natural trail sections.
- **Wildlife Awareness:** Prepare children for potential encounters with natural wildlife such as snakes and deer, especially in warmer months. Advise them to observe from a distance and not disturb the animals.
- **Activity Gear:** Consider bringing bikes, rollerblades, skateboards, or RC crawlers to maximize the diverse activity options available.
- **Cyclist Etiquette:** If cycling, teach children to audibly alert walkers/runners by yelling 'bike on the LEFT' when passing.
- **Planned Duration:** Factor in a 45-60 minute walking time if your goal is to connect to the paved path leading to Shelly Lake from this Sawmill Rd Access.
Good to know before you go
- If your primary need is stroller accessibility throughout your entire visit, particularly for the more scenic natural trail portions.
- If your children are highly sensitive to or fearful of encountering natural wildlife (e.g., snakes, deer) in their natural habitat.
- The unpaved trail sections are explicitly stated as 'Not good for strollers or any push car etc.', making it challenging for families with infants or young toddlers who require wheeled transport.
- Parents should be aware of the presence of natural wildlife (snakes, deer) especially during warm months, which might be a concern for some children or parents, though they generally do not bother visitors if undisturbed.
- Crowds
- Described as 'very peaceful' by a reviewer, suggesting it may not be overly crowded, or at least offers periods of tranquility. No specific peak or busy times were mentioned.
- Value
- This is a free public greenway and trail system. It offers high value as a no-cost outdoor family activity with diverse options and a well-maintained environment.
- Food
- No specific food or drink policies are mentioned in the reviews, suggesting standard public park rules apply (e.g., visitors are generally expected to pack out any trash they generate).
- Accessibility
- **Strollers/Push Cars:** The unpaved trail sections are explicitly unsuitable for strollers or push cars.
- Safety
- **Vehicle Restriction:** Motor vehicles are strictly prohibited on the greenway, enhancing safety for pedestrians and cyclists.
What parents say
"Near our house and a nice walk in the woods that you walk over bridges and down to the water edge. Not good for strollers or any push car etc. Good for dogs! Its about 45 mins to an hour to link up to the paved path to head to Shelly Lake."
a year ago
"This is a beautiful section of unpaved trail that follows the creek. I love it here - it’s very peaceful. Today was hot and I guess the gigantic snake in the creek wanted to cool off too."
10 months ago
"Absolutely love coming here!! GREAT place to bring RC crawlers!! Very clean not trashed. And usually when we go out we will pick up any trash we see"
a year ago
Reviews sourced from public Google data.
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