Bill Craft Trail

Bill Craft Trail is an easy, foot-only hiking route in the Richardson-Taylor Preserve near Greensboro, North Carolina. It’s a short long-distance option—about 3.3 to 6.7 miles depending on how you handle the out-and-back length and any attached loop segments you choose to add.

The route stays mostly in wooded terrain as it works through wet areas of the preserve. Along the way you’ll encounter wetlands and creek crossings, with at least one bridge over Long Branch Creek.

Terrain is generally gentle, with rolling sections rather than sustained climbing. Elevation gain is described in the hundreds of feet (roughly 100 to 337 ft total) across the longer end of the route options.

Expect natural-surface tread and hydrology-driven ground conditions: sandy floodplains and floodplain edges are part of the trail character, and sections can get muddy after rainfall when the path runs through creek and wetland terrain.

There are practical landmarks to help you judge progress, including an observation deck around the mid-route area and an old retention pond passed during the hike.

Trail visibility is reported as excellent, and the route uses a white-dot trail symbol. Wildlife activity is common in the wetlands (including beavers and birds), so keep an eye out where the trail skirts creek margins.

Parking and access are off Plainfield Road (about 300 Plainfield Rd), and parking is limited—carpooling is often recommended for weekend visits. Dogs are allowed on a leash.

More information: Bill Craft Trail at Richardson Preserve - Greensboro, NC, Bill Craft Trail in North Carolina - Pacer Walking App