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Mallard Creek Greenway

Routes

Hiking trails & Routes

Mallard Creek Greenway

Moderate

4.7

(7201)

15,267

hikers

Mallard Creek Greenway

Q: Where can I park to access the Mallard Creek Greenway?

You can find convenient parking at Kirk Farm Park, which serves as a popular access point for the greenway. There are numerous other access points along the trail as well, making it easily reachable from various neighborhoods.

Q: Is the Mallard Creek Greenway dog-friendly?

Yes, the greenway is dog-friendly! Please ensure your dog remains on a leash at all times and remember to clean up after your pet to keep the trail enjoyable for everyone.

Q: What is the best time of year to visit the greenway?

The Mallard Creek Greenway is enjoyable year-round. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage, while summer provides lush greenery. Even in winter, it can be a great spot for a brisk walk, though some sections might be less sheltered from the wind.

Q: Are there any permits or fees required to use the Mallard Creek Greenway?

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access or use the Mallard Creek Greenway. It is a public trail managed by Mecklenburg County, open for everyone to enjoy free of charge.

Q: What kind of terrain can I expect on this trail?

The trail features varied terrain, primarily consisting of paved paths. There's also a notable 1.2-mile section of packed gravel that winds through University Research Park, which is generally smooth and suitable for walking and jogging. You'll also pass through several tunnels under major roads and over bridges, including one over Mallard Creek Road.

Q: What wildlife might I see along the greenway?

Despite its urban setting, the greenway offers opportunities for wildlife spotting. Keep an eye out for deer, Great Blue Herons, gray foxes, red-tailed hawks, beavers, and muskrats, especially near the creek and wetland areas.

Q: Are there any specific points of interest along the route?

Yes, the greenway offers several interesting spots. You'll pass the Mallard Creek and Clarks Creek Greenways Intersection , which is a key connectivity point. The Mallard Creek Greenway (West Terminus) is another notable point. The trail also features tranquil ponds, wetlands, and scenic views of Mallard Creek.

Q: Does the Mallard Creek Greenway connect to other trails?

Yes, it's a significant part of the larger Cross-Charlotte Trail initiative. It connects to other greenways, including the Clarks Creek Greenway and the Toby Creek Greenway, allowing for extended routes. The route also passes through sections of the Mallard Creek Greenway, Mallard Creek Tributary Greenway (proposed), Barton Creek Greenway, and Clarks Creek Greenway.

Q: Is the greenway suitable for families or beginners?

Absolutely! The Mallard Creek Greenway is generally considered an easy trail with wide paths and a relatively low elevation gain, making it suitable for walkers, runners, and families with children. Its multi-use nature also means it's accessible for those using mobility devices.

Q: How long does it typically take to hike the entire Mallard Creek Greenway?

The full length of the greenway is approximately 7.1 miles (11.5 km). A typical hike covering this distance might take around 2 hours and 55 minutes, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

02:56

11.5km

40m

Hiking

Embark on a refreshing hike along the Mallard Creek Greenway, a moderate 7.1-mile (11.5 km) route that guides you through a serene natural setting. You'll find yourself winding through lush woodlands and alongside the picturesque Mallard Creek, gaining a gentle 122 feet (37 metres) in elevation. The journey, which typically takes about 2 hours and 55 minutes, offers glimpses of tranquil ponds and wetlands, creating a peaceful atmosphere. Keep an eye out for local wildlife as you pass under various tunnels and over bridges, providing unique perspectives of the water and surrounding landscape.

Planning your visit to the Mallard Creek Greenway is straightforward, with numerous access points available. You can easily find parking at locations like Kirk Farm Park, making it convenient to start your adventure. The trail is generally considered accessible for many users, but remember that it is a multi-use path shared with cyclists. Always be aware of your surroundings to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone on the route.

This greenway offers a delightful escape into nature, showcasing diverse habitats where you might spot deer or Great Blue Herons. The path connects various natural features, including the intersection with Clarks Creek Greenways, providing extended exploration opportunities. It's a perfect choice if you are looking for a peaceful outdoor experience within Mecklenburg County, combining natural beauty with easy accessibility.

Last updated: April 23, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

3.51 km

Viewpoint

9.00 km

Mallard Creek and Clarks Creek Greenways Intersection

Highlight • Trail

This spot is where Clarks Creek and Mallard Creek Greenways intersect. Both Greenways are popular outdoor destinations, especially during late summer and early fall when birds and butterflies are abundant. These greenways offer plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife such as great blue herons, gray foxes, white-tailed deer, and a diverse range of birds throughout the year. These multi-use paths are a mix of gravel, pavement, and the occasional bridge and are enjoyed by joggers, walkers, bikers, rollerbladers, and skateboarders. These two greenways have multiple neighborhood connections, making them easily accessible and a great way to get around the University City area. The Clarks Creek and Mallard Creek Greenways stretch over 7.40 miles, making longest greenway in the area. They are a part of the Cross-Charlotte Trail, a collaborative effort between Mecklenburg County and the City of Charlotte to create a 26-mile continuous trail for people to enjoy for both recreation and commuting.

Tip by

10.6 km

Viewpoint

11.5 km

Mallard Creek Greenway (West Terminus)

Highlight • Trail

The west terminus of the greenway ends at a residential cul-de-sac. However, the greenway is part of an ongoing expanding trail project. From here it is 4.6 miles of paved multi-use path to the opposite end of the Mallard Creek Greenway.

Tip by

11.5 km

End point

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

11.1 km

417 m

Surfaces

11.1 km

335 m

< 100 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Weather

Today

Thursday 16 July

36°C

22°C

0 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 8.0 km/h

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I park to access the Mallard Creek Greenway?

You can find convenient parking at Kirk Farm Park, which serves as a popular access point for the greenway. There are numerous other access points along the trail as well, making it easily reachable from various neighborhoods.

Is the Mallard Creek Greenway dog-friendly?

Yes, the greenway is dog-friendly! Please ensure your dog remains on a leash at all times and remember to clean up after your pet to keep the trail enjoyable for everyone.

What is the best time of year to visit the greenway?

The Mallard Creek Greenway is enjoyable year-round. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage, while summer provides lush greenery. Even in winter, it can be a great spot for a brisk walk, though some sections might be less sheltered from the wind.

Are there any permits or fees required to use the Mallard Creek Greenway?

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access or use the Mallard Creek Greenway. It is a public trail managed by Mecklenburg County, open for everyone to enjoy free of charge.

What kind of terrain can I expect on this trail?

The trail features varied terrain, primarily consisting of paved paths. There's also a notable 1.2-mile section of packed gravel that winds through University Research Park, which is generally smooth and suitable for walking and jogging. You'll also pass through several tunnels under major roads and over bridges, including one over Mallard Creek Road.

What wildlife might I see along the greenway?

Despite its urban setting, the greenway offers opportunities for wildlife spotting. Keep an eye out for deer, Great Blue Herons, gray foxes, red-tailed hawks, beavers, and muskrats, especially near the creek and wetland areas.

Are there any specific points of interest along the route?

Yes, the greenway offers several interesting spots. You'll pass the Mallard Creek and Clarks Creek Greenways Intersection, which is a key connectivity point. The Mallard Creek Greenway (West Terminus) is another notable point. The trail also features tranquil ponds, wetlands, and scenic views of Mallard Creek.

Does the Mallard Creek Greenway connect to other trails?

Yes, it's a significant part of the larger Cross-Charlotte Trail initiative. It connects to other greenways, including the Clarks Creek Greenway and the Toby Creek Greenway, allowing for extended routes. The route also passes through sections of the Mallard Creek Greenway, Mallard Creek Tributary Greenway (proposed), Barton Creek Greenway, and Clarks Creek Greenway.

Is the greenway suitable for families or beginners?

Absolutely! The Mallard Creek Greenway is generally considered an easy trail with wide paths and a relatively low elevation gain, making it suitable for walkers, runners, and families with children. Its multi-use nature also means it's accessible for those using mobility devices.

How long does it typically take to hike the entire Mallard Creek Greenway?

The full length of the greenway is approximately 7.1 miles (11.5 km). A typical hike covering this distance might take around 2 hours and 55 minutes, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

Is the Mallard Creek Greenway a loop trail?

No, the Mallard Creek Greenway is primarily an out-and-back trail. However, its connections to other greenways like the Clarks Creek Greenway allow for creating longer, continuous routes if you wish to extend your journey.