Cary has an excellent reputation for well-maintained public parks and elaborate greenway systems. Over 80 miles of greenway trails run through the town, connecting different parts of the community. Each greenway is paved, which makes it easy for walkers, joggers, and cyclists alike to utilize each trail.
The White Oak Creek greenway, which begins at Fred G. Bond Park and ends at the American Tobacco Trail, is one of the best examples of a Cary greenway done right. The 10-foot-wide asphalt allows for plenty of room for both your bicycle and pedestrians, and has some beautiful views along the path.
Pictured above is a mural painted by Cary’s Lisa Gaither, who has painted numerous murals around the town. After going through the tunnel, you will arrive at Davis Drive Park, one of the three parks you’ll pass through during your 7.38-mile journey. One of the perks of going through all of the parks is that they are all equipped with public restrooms and water fountains, in case you need to take a break.
Like most greenways, this is not a loop. If you wanted to go through the entire trail, round trip would be nearly 15 miles. Depending on your fitness level, this may be a bit of a challenge. The greenway is primarily flat, however, lowering the difficulty so that a wide range of skill levels can enjoy the ride.
There is a free bicycle repair station located at Bond park, in case you need air or perform minor repairs to your bike before you begin riding.
Getting to the beginning of the trail:
The best way to begin your journey is to drive to Fred G. Bond Metro Park, located at 801 High House Rd, Cary, NC 27513. There are numerous parking lots at Bond, and plenty of signs and maps that will guide you to the beginning of the White Oak Creek greenway. If you are facing the boathouse, take a right and walk along the path with the large green area and hills, and keep walking until you see a paved path form to the right with a sign saying White Oak Creek greenway.
If you don’t want to ride through the entire trail, you can also park at Davis Drive Park or Ed Yerha Park and begin there, as the White Oak Creek greenway travels through both of these parks. If you decide to start at one of the other parks, note that you will get more scenic views if you travel east toward the American Tobacco Trail instead of going west toward Bond.