By Guest Blogger, Sarah Brockington of BullCitySarahHealthandFitness.com
Did you know that there are 22 places named Durham in the United States? My favorite place and hometown is Durham. North Carolina. There are so many things I love about the “Bull City.” In addition to great shopping, restaurants, and museums, expect to find a variety of parks and greenways dotted throughout the city. If you visit for a run, you’ll pass by some local creeks, streams, a dinosaur, the downtown Durham skyline, local art, and some nice wooded areas.
Dinosaur, you say? Yes, you read that right. A massive dino is tucked away along the side of one of my favorite local trail sheds, the Ellerbee Creek Trail. The Ellerbee is a great option for those that want to explore nature and the city at the same time. It’s about a 4 mile stretch of trail, one end starting in North Durham at Stadium Drive. If you follow through North Gate Park, to Club Blvd, left on Washington, you will find the S Ellerbee Creek trailhead and that will take you to the other end. Eventually, you’ll come out in Downtown Durham at Trinity Ave. If you are cycling, like walking or running, the Ellerbee Creek Trail is a great choice because of the variable distance options provided by the trail.
Distance – Mileage
Looking for a 1-mile walk? Park at North Gate Park and take the path that goes along the dog park and turn around after you spot the dino.
Want to cover some serious miles? Take Ellerbee Creek trail, to S Ellerbee Creek trail, head downtown and pick up the American Tobacco Trail (ATT) head that is a couple blocks past the Durham Bulls Stadium. The ATT heads to South Durham and beyond.
The trails are so accessible and fun for all fitness levels and ages. If you are up for an adventure, map out some stops during your long hike, run, or bike ride while you’re downtown.
Considerations
- See your MD for a check-up before starting a running program
- Drink lots of water before, during, and after your run
- Avoid eating beforehand
- Stretch before your run
- Don’t run during the hottest part of the day in summer
- Bring your cell phone along
About the Author
Sarah is a Learning & Development professional, an Independent Beach Body Coach offering health/nutrition/fitness coaching, a blogger, a wife, a mom to a young girl, and a dog mom. She is super passionate and excited about all things fitness, health, and personal development. She lives in Durham, North Carolina which is also known as “Bull City.” Check out Sarah’s blog at www.bullcitysarahhealthandfitness.com
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