Four Mile Creek Greenway

The greenway has several neighborhood access points. For convenient access to amenities like a playground and restrooms, consider parking near Squirrel Lake Park or the Matthews Community Center/downtown Matthews, which are directly connected by the greenway.

Yes, dogs are welcome on the greenway! Please ensure your furry friend remains on a leash at all times to respect other users and local wildlife.

The greenway is enjoyable year-round. Spring offers opportunities to spot marbled and spotted salamanders, while the ample tree shade makes it pleasant during warmer months. Fall brings beautiful foliage, and winter can be peaceful.

No, there are no permits required or entrance fees to access and enjoy the Four Mile Creek Greenway. It's a public greenway managed by Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation.

The trail primarily features a boardwalk and asphalt pathways, making it generally flat and easy to navigate. Some sections include wood plank bridges, which can be slippery when wet, so exercise caution there.

Absolutely! The Four Mile Creek Greenway is widely considered an easy hike, perfect for families and individuals looking for a leisurely walk, run, or bike ride. Its flat, paved, and boardwalk sections are very accessible.

The main Matthews segment is about 2 to 2.3 miles long one way. Based on an average hiking pace, a one-way trip could take around 45 minutes to an hour, making a round trip about 1.5 to 2 hours.

You'll experience a diverse natural environment, winding through a mixed Loblolly and Shortleaf Pine forest in a floodplain along Four Mile Creek. Expect serene wetlands and wooded areas, providing ample tree shade and a peaceful atmosphere.

Beyond the natural beauty, you might spot creatively decorated birdhouses and beautifully painted manhole covers. The greenway also connects to Squirrel Lake Park, which has a large playground and 'fairy trails', and Fountain Rock Park with a popular bubbling water feature.

The greenway offers great opportunities for wildlife viewing. Keep an eye out for beavers, white-tailed deer, great blue herons, other bird species, frogs, and turtles. During spring, you might even spot marbled and spotted salamanders.

Yes, public bathrooms are available at various exit points, particularly at connected parks like Squirrel Lake Park. You'll also find nearby shops and restaurants easily accessible from the greenway.

Yes, the Four Mile Creek Greenway serves as a vital link, connecting residential neighborhoods to community hubs like Matthews Elementary School, Squirrel Lake Park, and downtown Matthews. It can also be linked with the Lower McAlpine Creek Greenway for a much longer route.