Cane Creek Mountains Natural Area Hike
Cane Creek Mountains Natural Area is a new nature park that provides public access to this state-significant natural heritage area located in the Cane Creek Mountains. The most notable peak called Cane Creek Mountain is the highest peak in NC east of Greensboro at 987 feet. The mountain’s side slopes create the headwaters of several streams that drain in to the Haw River further downstream.
You will enjoy rolling piedmont hills, abundant creeks and streams, and some of the best views in the County. The stone formations are especially striking.
A natural community called the “Piedmont Boggy Streamhead” is common here, fed by rainfall seeping through the rocks of the mountain and pooling in shallow depressions. These areas make ideal homes for ferns. At least eight different species have been identified on the mountain including New York Fern, Cinnamon Fern, Southern Lady Fern, Christmas Fern, Netted Chain Fern, Royal Fern, Broad Beech Fern and Resurrection Fern.
Currently, phase one of the natural area includes the first hiking trails, parking area and pit bathroom facility.
There are two choices for trails that start at the Pine Hill Trailhead.
Northern Approach Trail – Hike is FULL. Closed to Registration 2.5 miles moderate hike with some stone ascents with elevation gains of around 347 feet from the beginning of the trail to the top of the mountain which may be troublesome for folks with knee problems We will take our time so plan on at least two hours or more.
Heartleaf Loop – Open for Registration1 mile loop that bypasses the highest inclines to the top of the mountain and offers a light to moderate hike with an elevation gain of 68 feet that is ideal for beginning hikers. This choice is a great introduction to the natural area.
Location: 5075 Bass Mountain Rd, Snow Camp, NC 27349
Date & time: 10am, Monday April 12, 2021 (rain date April 19 with confirmation sent if needed)
Please note: members only hike, face masks, no dogs
Bring lunch or snacks to have at end of the hike or at a pause.
Directions from Greensboro: I-40 E toward Burlington. Take the NC-87 exit, EXIT 147, toward Pittsboro/Graham. Go south on NC-87 (5 miles). Turn right onto Mount Hermon Rock Creek Rd (Mount Hermon Rock Creek Rd is 0.1 miles past Woods Chapel Rd). Turn slight left onto Bass Mountain Rd. Watch for this slight turn! (go 2.65 miles) (Bass Mountain Rd is just past Mount Hermon Rock Creek Rd).
5075 Bass Mountain Rd, Snow Camp, NC 27349-9671
Your destination is 0.3 miles past Tingen Rd. If you reach Eagles Nest Trail you’ve gone about 0.4 miles too far.
More information including trail map.
Contacts for more information or to cancel your reservation at the last minute.
Ann Walter-Fromson annwf7@gmail.com
Diane Laslie diane.laslie@gmail.com 336 337-0705 cell