A Late Winter Hike at the Eno

Type of Outing: Hike
When: FRI 3/6/2026 9:00 AM
Signup Deadline: 3/5/2026 5:00 pm
Leader: Clare Strayhorn
Distance: 7 miles
Difficulty: R-15, Moderate
Elevation Gain: 600 ft.
Description: Let’s check out the Eno in late winter/early Spring! Eno River State Park is a good place to hike at this time of year – since there is always a chance of seeing a few early wildflowers and daffodils blooming around the old cabins. Also, with the leaves being off the trees, there are many good views of the river. This will be a shorter hike than the one I organized a year ago, because of significant storm damage to the swing bridge preventing access to the trails on the other side of the river. 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. From there we will head along the river towards the old cabins and beyond on the Buckquarter, Fieldstone, Holden Mill, and form a loop with the Ridge and Shakori trails before proceeding back to the parking area. If there is interest, I might add another 2-3 miles continuing along the river in the opposite direction. I am anticipating that the total mileage will be around 6 miles. Highlights of the hike are many river views, sightings of daffodils and other early spring wildflowers (trout lilies), many turtles on logs (if weather is sunny), possibly the odd heron, and old homesteads. Bring poles since there is one small stream crossing which can be a little dodgy if the water is high, snacks, etc. Terrain is rocky (especially along the river), and root bound in places, so good footwear is advisable. 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 just before the end of the road on the right. The total mileage should be around 6+/- miles, elev. gain 600 +/- ft. [R-15]
Required Gear: poles for rocky terrain and short stream crossing