Umstead Sycamore Trail — Attraction in Raleigh

8-20-22

The chainsaw log art is NOT on this trail and I don't understand why folks would post pictures of it for this listing. This is also a HIKING only trail so folks speak about biking or horseback have this confused with the multiuse trails.

Trail is directly accessed from the Crabtree Creek Entrance and both on Sycamore Road and Group Camp Road. Parking at both but the actual trailhead is at the former. If you start here and do only this trail, it is a 7.2 mile loop.

Blue triangle blazes. Moderate with a deceiving bit of elevation change. All elevation change is gradual however. Intersects Graylyn and N. Turkey Creek trails, and connects to Company Mill Trail via Company Mills Spur moving south. Is a well worn trail, has a lot of unevenness, LOTS of roots and rocks, with higher canopy (no webs). Passes beside Sycamore Creek for a large majority of it and also beside the stone bridge. Does feature a few bridges over the creek periodically. Even with the roots and rocks, it seems to move fairly fast. Expect quite a bit of foot traffic from both runners and hikers.

Sycamore is my favorite trail in the park however this park in general is not a destination trail for me. Frankly, there are more scenic parks/trails throughout NC. It's OK and solid for a good workout.

I tend to start at the Reedy Creek (Harrison Avenue) entrance, hike Company Mill to Sycamore, and hike both as a large loop. This hits both the larger trails...

One the best hikes near to Raleigh. If you’re a regular outdoor person, this is pretty easy hike to take. Its less than moderate and best part is you can take loop back at anytime. 1.3 mile one way till actual loop starts but total 7.2 mile if you want to go full stretch. Mixed usage trail in middle where many do bicycling. Park itself opens at 8:00 AM atleast in summer so plan accordingly. We were the first at gate around 7:45 AM and cars started piling up by 8:00 AM. Restrooms near parking lot and visitor center. Couple of shelters and many benches to do picnic. Entire trail is shaded which makes it the best to ho at...

I recently hiked the Sycamore Trail in William B. Umstead State Park and I highly recommend it! It is a 7.2 mile loop trail that is moderately challenging, but not too strenuous. The trail winds through a variety of terrain, including forests, meadows, and streams. There are also a few short climbs, but nothing too steep.

I really enjoyed the variety of scenery on this trail. There were some beautiful wildflowers in bloom, and I even saw a few deer. The trail is well-maintained and easy to follow. I would definitely recommend this trail to anyone looking for a challenging but...