Type of Outing: Hike
When: SAT 11/9/2024 9:00 AM
Signup Deadline: 11/8/2024 5:00 pm
Leader: Clare Strayhorn
Distance: 11.5 miles
Difficulty: R-22, Moderate
Elevation Gain: 950 ft.
Description: This is very similar to the hike that I led in March but I have extended it by 2 miles. Please plan to meet at 9 am at the new Visitor Center parking lot on the right just before the end of Cole Mill Rd (where there is also a large parking lot). The hike will consist of two loops, the longer one on the visitor center side of the river, the other (the Cox Mountain trail loop) on the other side across the swing bridge. The first loop comprising Buckquarter, Ridge, Shakori and Holden Mill Trails will be about 7.5 miles and hikers can choose to do just this part of the hike if they want to do a slightly shorter hike. The 2nd part will take us across the swing bridge for another 4.25 miles. This is a varied hike with plenty to see, good views along the river, old cabins and homesteads, old mill sites, good fall foliage, good views from the top of Cox Mountain, etc. Trail conditions are rocky and rooty in places especially along the river, so please wear appropriate footwear. There will be two stream crossings and a bit of rock scrambling on the Holden Mill Trail. We’ll stop for a snack at a scenic spot on the Holden Mill Trail followed by lunch by the river on the Cox Mt. Trail. Both loops commence from the Visitor Center. From Greensboro, the park can be easily accessed from I-85. Take Pleasant Green Rd. for about 2 miles to an intersection with Cole Mill Rd. Take a left on Cole Mill, and go about ¾ mile to the park entrance. The parking lot and visitor center is the one just before the end of the road. The total mileage should be around 11.5 miles, elevation about 1000 ft., or 7.5 miles elevation 650 ft. [R-22]
