According to Wikipedia, the land has long been "untamed" and wild, with bison, elk, bobcats, and wolves dominating the forests before logging and agriculture took root. "Poor cultivation practices and one-crop production however led to depletion and erosion of the soil." Some farmers even attempted "to grow cotton in worn-out soil," which ultimately proved to be futile.

The park's claim to fame in the trail running world is largely due to two of its annual trail races, the Umstead 100 and Umstead Trail Marathon. This route roughly follows the same course as the marathon route, which is run as an out-and-back from Lake Sycamore. This version begins and ends at the visitor center instead, where restrooms and water are available year-round.

What makes Umstead great is the number of interconnecting trails that offer options to shorten or lengthen your run. If 12 miles seems a bit daunting, don't hesitate to change it up or explore a side trail that invokes your curiosity.

Source