The trail has different surfaces and features along its length. The northern section, from Durham to New Hope Church Road, is paved and urban, passing by historic landmarks that reflect the tobacco industry's legacy in the area. These include the Durham Bulls Athletic Park and the American Tobacco Campus, which are now vibrant hubs of entertainment and culture. The trail also crosses over Interstate 40 on a pedestrian bridge that opened in 2014, linking the previously disconnected segments of the trail.

The middle section, from New Hope Church Road to Scott King Road, is crushed stone and rural, winding through pine forests and farmlands that showcase the natural beauty of the region. The trail also crosses several streams and wetlands, where you can see wildlife such as beavers, herons, turtles, and deer.

The southern section, from Scott King Road to New Hill Olive Chapel Road, is natural surface and wooded, following the Black Creek and White Oak Creek greenways that extend into Cary, Apex, and Morrisville. The trail also passes by several parks and playgrounds where you can stop for a break or a picnic.

Source: American Tobacco Trail. https://www.wake.gov/departments-government/parks-recreation-open-space/all-parks-trails/american-tobacco-trail. American Tobacco Trail (ATT) | Triangle Rails to Trails. https://www.triangletrails.org/american-tobacco-trail. American Tobacco Trail | North Carolina Trails | TrailLink. https://www.traillink.com/trail/american-tobacco-trail/. American Tobacco Trail - Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AmericanTobaccoTrail. American Tobacco Trail Historic & Natural Significance. https://www.wake.gov/departments-government/parks-recreation-open-space/all-parks-trails/american-tobacco-trail/american-tobacco-trail-historic-natural-significance. Conversation with Bing Chat