Owl's Roost Trail
Scenic single-track trail around Lake Brandt, perfect for trail running and mountain biking with beautiful nature views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Owl's Roost Trail
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Scenic single-track trail around Lake Brandt, perfect for trail running and mountain biking with beautiful nature views.
"A beautiful area to get out and run, walk or bike to enjoy nature."
Park Smartly
Park at Bur-Mill Park for best access to Owl's Roost & A&Y trails. :car:
Trail Shoes Recommended
Wear sturdy shoes for roots & mud. Not ideal for casual strollers or novice skaters. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lake Brandt Views
Along the trail
Enjoy picturesque views of serene Lake Brandt waters, with a dedicated observation platform offering clear vistas.

Single-Track Adventure
Throughout the trail system
Experience a true mountain biking and hiking adventure on well-maintained single-track paths winding through the woods.

Extensive Trail Network
Bur-Mill Park
Explore miles of trails around the lake for walking, running, and biking, with additional branching paths for more adventure.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking & Trail Access
Trail Conditions & Difficulty
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Park Smartly
Park at Bur-Mill Park for best access to Owl's Roost & A&Y trails. :car:
Trail Shoes Recommended
Wear sturdy shoes for roots & mud. Not ideal for casual strollers or novice skaters. :athletic_shoe:
Check Trail Conditions
Can get muddy after rain. Check local reports before heading out. :umbrella:
Explore Beyond
Branch off the main path for more adventurous hiking and biking routes. :hiking_boot:
Tips
from all over the internet
Park Smartly
Park at Bur-Mill Park for best access to Owl's Roost & A&Y trails. :car:
Trail Shoes Recommended
Wear sturdy shoes for roots & mud. Not ideal for casual strollers or novice skaters. :athletic_shoe:
Check Trail Conditions
Can get muddy after rain. Check local reports before heading out. :umbrella:
Explore Beyond
Branch off the main path for more adventurous hiking and biking routes. :hiking_boot:
Drone Views
Beautiful drone footage captures the lake's serenity and trail's winding path. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Owl's Roost Trail for its beautiful lake views and challenging single-track paths, making it ideal for trail running and mountain biking. While the trail itself is well-maintained and scenic, some users note that the map marker can be misleading, and the terrain can be challenging for casual walkers or skaters.
"This trail is great and all the trails nearby are too. Apparently the map marker is misplaced and the trails are getting some poor reviews due to that. There are lots of parking along the A&Y, and Bur-Mill is the spot to park for the A&Y or Owls Roost. Owls Roost is not a greenway, but a single track mountain bike trail. It has some difficult sections."
Pat Hart
"Beautiful area to get out and run, walk or bike to enjoy nature."
Jane Ford
"Well kept trails! Greensboro should be proud they operate these. Trails around the whole lake, about an 8.5 miles worth (walking) and miles more for mountain biking. Makes for a great day trek!"
Justin Maslack
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most recommended parking spot for Owl's Roost Trail is Bur-Mill Park in Greensboro, NC. This location provides excellent access not only to Owl's Roost but also to the adjacent A&Y Greenway trails. Many users mention that the map marker for the trail can be misplaced, so heading to Bur-Mill Park is key for a smooth start to your adventure. There's also ample parking available along the A&Y Greenway itself if Bur-Mill is full.
Information regarding direct public transport access to the trailhead is limited. It's advisable to check local Greensboro transit routes for buses that may stop near Bur-Mill Park or along the A&Y Greenway, and then plan for a short walk or bike ride to the trail entrance.
While online maps might be slightly off, the consensus is to head to Bur-Mill Park. The trails are well-marked once you are in the park system. Look for signs directing you towards the single-track mountain bike trails or the lake loop.
Owl's Roost Trail is primarily accessed through Bur-Mill Park. However, as it connects to a larger network of trails, including the A&Y Greenway, there might be other points of entry if you are coming from a different direction, though Bur-Mill is the most common starting point.
The main Owl's Roost Trail is a single-track path, which is generally well-defined for mountain biking and hiking. However, it's not a paved path, so staying aware of your surroundings and following trail markers is important.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Owl's Roost Trail is a public park and does not require tickets for entry. Access to the trails within Bur-Mill Park is free for all visitors.
Bur-Mill Park, where Owl's Roost Trail is located, is generally open from dawn to dusk. It's always a good idea to check the official Greensboro Parks and Recreation website for any specific seasonal hours or temporary closures.
There is no entrance fee to access Bur-Mill Park or the Owl's Roost Trail. Enjoying the natural beauty and recreational opportunities is free of charge.
Reservations are not necessary for individual hikers or bikers on Owl's Roost Trail. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
No special permits are required for general hiking or mountain biking on Owl's Roost Trail. It's open for public use.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Owl's Roost Trail is a single-track mountain bike trail, meaning it's an unpaved, narrow path. Expect to encounter roots, rocks, and potentially muddy sections, especially after rain. It's described as having some difficult sections and is not a paved greenway.
Yes, Owl's Roost Trail is a popular spot for trail running. Runners appreciate the scenic nature and the challenge of the single-track terrain. Some even train for races on this trail.
While not explicitly stated in all sources, dogs are generally permitted in Greensboro parks on a leash. Always check local park regulations for the most current information regarding pets on trails.
Restroom facilities are typically available at Bur-Mill Park. It's recommended to confirm their availability and location upon arrival at the park.
As a trail through a wooded area near a lake, you might encounter common local wildlife such as birds, squirrels, and possibly deer. Enjoy observing nature responsibly.
📸 📸 Photography
The most striking photo opportunities on Owl's Roost Trail are the scenic views of Lake Brandt, especially from the observation platform. The winding single-track path through the woods also makes for dynamic shots, particularly for action photography like trail running or biking.
Yes, drone footage of Owl's Roost Trail has been shared, highlighting the picturesque scenery along Lake Brandt and the forest. Ensure you are aware of and comply with any local drone regulations.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best lighting for photography, with softer light and fewer harsh shadows. The golden hours can enhance the natural beauty of the lake and forest.
Absolutely! The trail's dynamic nature makes it a great spot for capturing action shots of runners and bikers. Remember to be respectful of their activity and personal space.
The observation platform overlooking Lake Brandt is a key landmark for photos. Additionally, any of the wooden boardwalks or bridges along the trail can offer interesting photographic elements.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key recommendations for families: Stick to the main loop for easier walking, bring snacks and water, and be aware of the trail's uneven terrain. The observation platform offers a nice spot for a family break with a view of Lake Brandt. Ensure children are supervised, especially near the water and on more challenging sections of the trail.
🏃 Trail Runners & Cyclists
Tips for runners and cyclists: Wear appropriate footwear with good traction. Be prepared for roots, rocks, and potential mud. Stay aware of other users and practice trail etiquette. Consider exploring the connected A&Y Greenway for longer rides or runs.
🚶 Casual Walkers & Nature Lovers
For a relaxed experience: Stick to the more open sections of the trail or combine your walk with the paved A&Y Greenway. Take advantage of the observation platform for scenic breaks. It's a great spot to enjoy the outdoors without intense physical exertion, though sturdy shoes are still recommended.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Trail Running at Owl's Roost
Runners often praise the beautiful views of Lake Brandt, which provide a refreshing backdrop to their workouts. The well-maintained paths, despite their challenging nature, are a significant draw. It's important for runners to wear appropriate footwear with good grip to handle the varied surfaces and to be mindful of other trail users, such as mountain bikers. Staying hydrated and checking weather conditions, as the trail can become muddy, is also crucial for a safe and enjoyable run.
Mountain Biking the Single-Track
While the trail is well-regarded, it's noted that some sections can be difficult, particularly for less experienced riders. The presence of roots and occasional muddy patches adds to the challenge and requires good bike handling skills. It's recommended that bikers be aware of their surroundings, yield to hikers when necessary, and maintain a safe speed. The scenic lake views provide a pleasant break and a beautiful setting for this active pursuit.
Navigating Parking and Access
If Bur-Mill Park is full, or if you are approaching from a different direction, parking is also available along the A&Y Greenway. This provides an alternative entry point into the trail network. It's important to note that Owl's Roost is a single-track trail, not a paved greenway, so the parking areas are geared towards accessing these more rugged paths. Planning your arrival, especially on weekends, can help ensure you find a convenient parking spot.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit