Description

Maybe you’re new to the area, or maybe you’ve been hiking in the Triangle for a while and are ready to expand your horizons. With the Piedmont Explorer we take you to nine destinations, each no more than two hours away. Some you may have heard of but haven’t had a chance to visit. Some you may not know at all. All offer great hiking not far from the Triangle. Our May hike is to Raven Rock State Park on the Cape Fear River near Lillington.

Where: Raven Rock State Park, Lillington

When: May 14, 10 a.m.

Distance: 5.5 miles (Campbell Creek Trail, with optional 2.6-mile hike to Raven Rock and back)

Description: Raven Rock is a popular destination — at least its namesake bluff towering 150 feet over the Cape Fear River is. So don’t be discouraged if the parking lot at the Visitor Center is near full: most of the folks piling out of those cars won’t be headed down the Campbell Creek Trail, which heads west through wooded terrain that gently drops to the Cape Fear. Near the water, we’ll make a side trip to Lanier Falls, then return along Campbell Creek, a rocky waterway that’s more Southern Appalachian than Piedmont. 

.Includes: Guided hike and comprehensive eguide for the hike, including custom map, route description, background on the area and other pertinent details for executing the hike.

Cost per hike: $85