Find the top rated cross country skiing trails in Burlington, whether you're looking for an easy short cross country skiing trail or a long cross country skiing trail, you'll find what you're looking for. Click on a cross country skiing trail below to find trail descriptions, trail maps, photos, and reviews.


Thankful for a pedestrian friendly route on this side part of town, this route is more utilitarian than it is for sight seeing.
It took us awhile to find this: https://maps.app.goo.gl/3KoH7btKSEoZvdx78
My wife and I are from Georgia and were looking forward to riding this trail. We didn't complete the entire trail, but we rode about 10 miles of it. It was a wonderfully nice, peaceful ride along a well-kept, clean trail. We took the connector to the Mingo Creek trail, then returned to finish at the Neuse River. We will definitely be back to ride the entire trail soon.
As an extension to our ride on the Salem Lake Trail, we rode this greenway to add some extra miles. In my opinion, it’s a bit of a mixed bag.
The greenway itself is fairly narrow, and the pavement is rough in places and in need of repair. That said, the planners did a good job minimizing at-grade crossings, which helps keep the ride moving smoothly.
At one point, the trail closely follows Salem Creek and includes a fun water crossing. Be aware, though, that in this section there is a damaged concrete area where the trail narrows to a single pass—use caution when navigating through.
We rode as far as Central Park, though the greenway continues beyond that point.
The trail is mostly dirt, sand, and gravel, but it’s wide enough that passing walkers, runners, or other cyclists is easy. A few sections have been recently repaired with large gravel, so you’ll need to ride carefully in those areas.
There’s a lovely mix of sun and shade, along with cool breezes that make it feel far removed from populated areas. Parking is ample at the marina, though more limited at the Linville Road access. Both locations offer restroom facilities.
Part of the trail runs alongside Linville Road but remains completely separated from traffic. There are several hills, including a steep one near the marina. That section is paved, but unfortunately the asphalt is narrow and somewhat broken along one edge.
Near the marina, you can connect to the Salem Creek Greenway to extend your ride.
Definitely a trail I plan to return to.
Parking was easy. The trail has a modest slope at points. Some sections are elevated above the natural environment, boardwalk fashion. Well marked and well paved. Not overly crowded for such a nice trail in the evening. Highly recommended for walkers, runners and bikers. I look forward to doing it again when I travel here next. :-)
The greenway now extends to the southwest and ends at the Apex Nature Park. Overall length from Jaycee Park to Apex Nature Park is about 5 miles. Great nature ride. Well designed
Only rode 15 miles from Auburn-Knightdale to Milburne Dam and back but this is one of the very best trails for casual bicyclists. Paved. Wide. Scenic. Mostly shaded. Daily level with occasional hills that are a bit challenging for old and out-of-shapers but not too bad. Did not see a single electric terror bike--very unusual these days. Very friendly users (95% respond to greetings). Not many terrorizing "serious" riders. Great ride. Lots of bridges. Perfectly maintained.
This was nirvana - great rtide starting at Ed Yerba park and connecting via the Cary Greenway to American Tobacco Trail - beautiful mural on the way to the trail as well - this was fantastic Jayant Bicyclists from Texas
My wife and I had fun. Beautiful scenery and wildlife! Our first trail, so our butts are a little sore. 7 miles is a good starting trail length.
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