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Alamance Parks Receives 2026 Driving Mobility and Accessibility on Public Lands Grant From The National Environmental Education Foundation For Adaptive Trail Chairs

Written by chaseparrish on . Posted in Outdoors, Parks & Trails, Special Populations. No Comments on Alamance Parks Receives 2026 Driving Mobility and Accessibility on Public Lands Grant From The National Environmental Education Foundation For Adaptive Trail Chairs

Image of two adults on all terrain wheelchairs hiking on a nature trail in a wooded area

Alamance County, North Carolina. May 21, 2026 – Alamance Parks is pleased to announce it has received a $20,000 2026 Driving Mobility and Accessibility on Public Lands Grant from the National Environmental Education Foundation (NEEF), with major funding support from Toyota Motor North America. These funds will support the acquisition of adaptive trail chairs and equipment that will allow those with mobility disabilities more access to the trails and outdoor spaces that Alamance Parks has to offer throughout the county.

This grant will support mobility and accessibility on public lands by expanding access to outdoor recreation opportunities for individuals with mobility disabilities across our county’s public parks and trail systems. As a rural parks and recreation department, outdoor recreation and trail use are central to our programming. However, most of our trails are currently inaccessible to individuals with mobility impairments due to natural terrain and limited infrastructure. With this grant, Alamance Parks will be able to work towards removing physical barriers while supporting ongoing access to public lands for individuals with mobility disabilities.

“We are grateful for this grant opportunity which will allow us to expand accessibility within our parks system.  While not every trail or natural area can be fully accessible, these adaptive chairs help create more opportunities for individuals to enjoy our parks and connect with nature. This investment reflects and supports our organizational commitment to improving access for all.” said Alamance Parks Director Jamie Merchel.

NEEF awards annual grants through a competitive application and review process. For over twenty years, NEEF has partnered with Toyota to provide a variety of grants and awards to support national and regional environmental preservation projects. For more than 50 years, Alamance Parks has enhanced the quality of life for county residents through parks, trails, and inclusive programs that promote healthy, active lifestyles and connection to nature. Our focus areas are outdoors, community, and youth athletics. We provide access through parks and trails, community centers, Adaptive & Inclusive Recreation programs, and year-round youth sports. Our mission is to offer welcoming parks, trails, and programs for all.

About NEEF

The National Environmental Education Foundation (NEEF) is the nation’s leading organization in lifelong environmental learning, creating opportunities for people to experience and learn about the environment in ways that improve their lives and the health of the planet. Congressionally chartered in 1990 as a 501c3 nonprofit to complement the work of the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), NEEF is a non-partisan, non-advocacy organization working to make the environment more accessible, relatable, relevant, and connected to people’s daily lives. Learn more at NEEFusa.org—or follow NEEF on Facebook (Facebook.com/NEEFusa) and on Twitter at @NEEFusa.

aerial image of vast land and water

Alamance Parks Announces Acquisition of Approximately 800 Acres to Expand Haw River State Trail and Mountains-to-Sea State Trail

Written by chaseparrish on . Posted in Haw River Trail, Outdoors, Parks & Trails. No Comments on Alamance Parks Announces Acquisition of Approximately 800 Acres to Expand Haw River State Trail and Mountains-to-Sea State Trail

Alamance County, NC – Alamance Parks is pleased to announce the acquisition of approximately 800 acres of land in southern Alamance County that will significantly extend the Haw River State Trail and the North Carolina Mountains-to-Sea Trail.

The newly acquired property is a majority of the historic “Alston Quarter” tract, the largest undivided parcel in Alamance County. The land sits south of Saxapahaw at the confluence of the Haw River and Cane Creek.  This acquisition will allow for the construction of 3 miles of additional Haw River State Trail/Mountains-to-Sea Trail and will create new opportunities for outdoor recreation, conservation and environmental stewardship.

Funding for the acquisition was made possible through state and local resources including the North Carolina Land and Water Fund, the Complete the Trails Grant Program, Alamance County Landfill Enterprise Funds and a donation from the Friends of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail. This collaborative funding approach reflects Alamance County’s commitment to leveraging diverse funding sources to achieve long-term conservation and recreation goals. Planning, design and future public access improvements to the site will be evaluated as part of ongoing trail development effort and in coordination with state and regional partners.

For more information about Alamance County Recreation and Parks and trail initiatives, visit www.alamanceparks.com or follow Alamance Parks on social media.

For more information about the Haw River State Trail, visit www.hawrivertrail.org or follow Haw River Trail on social media.

Winter Birding Graphic

Birding at the Parks

Written by Joseph Magyar on . Posted in Miscellaneous, Outdoors, Parks & Trails.

Winter is a great time to go birding at the parks!

Winter is here and so are the birds!  We have a unique opportunity in central North Carolina because so many birds make their temporary homes here for the colder months.  We have the opportunity to spot species that are just passing through as well as many that spend all winter here. Below are a few tips and resources to help make the most of your time:

  • Dress comfortably. Yes, it seems obvious but often while out watching birds you may be still and not generating a lot of body heat. It’s best to dress in layers so you can adapt to the weather and activity level.
  • Take some tools. Binoculars are great (but not necessary). They don’t have to be expensive but aim for something around the 8x40mm size. 
  • A field guide or app. David Allen Sibley’s work is a great place to start. His Birding Basics book is a must read and Field Guide to Eastern North America is unmatched. For apps and websites: The Cornell Lab’s Website: https://www.allaboutbirds.org/news/ and their free companion app, Merlin (available for Apple and Android) will get you started right.
  • Our #1 tip: When watching when you see something just watch and notice the bird. Don’t immediately pull out your phone or field book.  Just keep watching and taking mental notes of colors, markings, calls, and behaviors. When the moment is gone then use your reference tools.

Happy Birding!

Suggested Resources: 

A view of a bridge at Haw River Trail at Great Bend Park, Glencoe.

Haw River Trail Becomes a State Trail

Written by Joseph Magyar on . Posted in Miscellaneous, Outdoors, Parks & Trails, Special Olympics, Special Populations, Special Populations Events, Visually Impaired Program.

Haw River Trail Becomes a State Trail
The local favorite joins 12 other distinguished trails across the state.

The Haw River Trail is now an authorized state trail thanks to the perseverance of local advocates, nonprofit organizations, and North Carolina legislators Representative Stephen M. Ross, Senator Amy S. Galey, and Representative Dennis Riddell.

“The Haw River State Trail is a lasting tribute to the power of the community. Dozens of landowners in Alamance County have shared their private property so that everyone can enjoy the beauty and power of the Haw,” said Brian Baker, Assistant County Manager of Alamance County. “Thanks to that commitment, the Haw River has regained its place as the heart of Alamance County.”

The Haw River Trail provides public access to one of North Carolina’s most important natural features. The land and paddle trail allows the community to explore while helping to conserve and protect this vital resource. Local nonprofits Friends of Lower Haw River State Natural Area, Carolina Canoe Club, and The Conservation Fund were critical in orchestrating behind the scenes to make this authorization possible. Both the Alamance and Chatham counties’ boards of commissioners adopted resolutions supporting state trail authorization. 

“Adding this beloved trail to the state trails program is a special opportunity for Alamance County,” said Representative Ross. “It is a great place to hike and paddle and enjoy the outdoors. Conserving places like the Haw River Trail also gives us cleaner air and cleaner water which will benefit our state for decades to come.” 

The Haw River Trail will join 12 other state trails and become part of the North Carolina State Parks system. While a state park is operated and managed by the Division of Parks and Recreation, a state trail comprises multiple connected sections that rely on local partnerships. Each section of the trail is sponsored by a federal, state or local government agency, nonprofit organization, or private landowner.

“State trail status gives the Haw River recognition across North Carolina as a trail of statewide significance,” said Senator Galey. “The state trail designation welcomes attention and economic benefit from tourism and recreation to Alamance County and beyond. The families of North Carolina have a beautiful place to splash and play for future generations.”

The Haw River Trail boasts:
• 20 miles of completed land trail in Alamance County
• 40 miles of completed paddle trail in Alamance County
• 15 recreational parks and trailheads open along the trail in Alamance County
• 6 public access sites in Chatham County

“It’s the commitment of our North Carolina’s General Assembly to the state’s conservation trust funds that make efforts like this one possible,” said NC State Director of The Conservation Fund Bill Holman, who chairs the Land for Tomorrow Coalition. “We’re also thankful to Representative Ross for being the primary sponsor of a conservation tax credit bill that will soon pass as part of the House budget. Investment in our natural spaces ensures that residents can enjoy and explore all that North Carolina has to offer.”

The planned Haw River Trail corridor extends approximately 80 miles along the Haw River, from Haw River State Park on the Rockingham-Guilford County line through Alamance County to Jordan Lake State Recreation Area in Chatham County. Public access to the Haw River Trail in Chatham County is provided at the Lower Haw River State Natural Area, owned by State Parks and by three public access sites managed by Chatham County Parks and Recreation. The trail in Alamance County is part of the statewide Mountains-to-Sea Trail, allowing hikers to travel across the state from Clingman’s Dome in the west to Jockey’s Ridge in the east. 

Learn more about: 
Haw River Trail
NC State Trails
Land for Tomorrow Coalition
Friends of Lower Haw River State Natural Area

The Old Mill Dam and Waterfall at Cedarock Park.

Alamance Parks Awarded Accessibility for Parks Grant for Playground at Cedarock Park

Written by Joseph Magyar on . Posted in Miscellaneous, Outdoors, Parks & Trails, Special Olympics, Special Populations, Special Populations Events, Visually Impaired Program.

The Parks and Recreation Authority awarded Alamance County a $450,000 grant for the construction of a new accessible playground at Cedarock Park. The funds were awarded through the Parks and Recreation Trust Fund – Accessibility for Parks Grant, which aims to provide matching grants to local governments for parks facilities for children and veterans living with disabilities. Impact Alamance provided an additional $70,000 in matching funds for the Cedarock playground project as this works aligns with their priority to create healthy places accessible to all residents.

The grant dollars will fund the purchase and construction of new playground equipment, picnic areas, yard games, and an accessible walkway connecting the playground area to the existing ADA-accessible Curtis Mill Trail. The centrally located accessible playground and amenities will provide a space for all park patrons, regardless of physical ability, to socialize and enjoy outdoor recreation. Construction of the new playground area will begin in the Fall of 2023.

Cedarock Park:

Cedarock Park is a 500-acre park in southern Alamance County that welcomes more than 180,000 visitors annually. This expansive nature park was established in 1975 on the historic farm of John and Polly Garrett, and continues to serve the citizens of Alamance County and visitors with a wide variety of outdoor facilities. The park offers four miles of hiking trails, six miles of equestrian trails, two disc golf courses, a footgolf course, a historical farm, a picturesque waterfall over an old mill dam, a playground, canoe and kayak rentals, camping, and ample field space for open play. Visit alamanceparks.com for more information.

North Carolina Governor’s Office Press Release Announcing Grant Awards:

To view the press release from the North Carolina Governor’s office regarding the Parks and Recreation Authority accessibility for parks grant awards visit:

https://governor.nc.gov/news/press-releases/2023/03/10/governor-cooper-announces-96-million-park-accessibility-grants

Impact Alamance:

Impact Alamance is a public charity and part of the Cone Health network for exceptional care. As a grantmaking foundation and supporting organization of Alamance Regional Medical Center, investments support the health system’s mission of improving the health of the community.  Impact Alamance’s mission is to partner and invest in the community to achieve hope, health, and prosperity for everyone in Alamance County.  www.impactalamance.com

Alamance Parks Badge logo

Two Photos related tot he opening of the Pioneer Trail at Cane Creek Mountains Natural Area Park. Left Photo: trail builders; Right Photo: an old chimney on site

Alamance County FMST Task Force Completes the Pioneer Trail

Written by Joseph Magyar on . Posted in Haw River Trail, Miscellaneous, Outdoors, Parks & Trails.

A group of volunteers from the Alamance County Task Force of the Friends of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail (MST) have completed an eighteen-month project to construct a new trail in the Cane Creek Mountains Natural Area in the central part of the county. The trail is a 3.4 miles long loop that begins at the new parking lot constructed by Alamance Parks, near the intersection of Bass Mountain Road and Broadrock Road. The parking lot has a toilet and kiosk and is the departure point for two new trails: the Pioneer Trail and the Tower Trail, both of which will be opening this spring once signage is completed.

The Pioneer Trail has been totally built by volunteers working one morning a week (weather permitting) for over a year and a half. Thirty-seven volunteers contributed over 2,000 hours constructing the winding trail through the hills of the Cane Creek Mountains. One of the trail features is the remnants of the Pioneer Youth Camp, a summer camp operated by John William Lindsay and his wife, Cynthia Garrett Lindsay, during the months of July and August between 1937 and 1956. The trail passes next to the chimney of the camp dining hall and is close to the remains of several camper cabins.

The Pioneer Trail is classed as an intermediate trail, winding through lush forests and across several streams, and is probably one of the most isolated trails in the county, almost totally out of sight of any development.

More information about the trail will be provided by Alamance Parks in the coming weeks.  There are also plans to construct another trail in the Cane Creek Natural Area in the future, entering from Mt. Herman Rock Creek Road.

Written by Bob Ellis, January 30, 2023

Check out this video highlighting the new trail. Video design and editing by Laura Sam (trail volunteer):

Alamance Parks is grateful to the Alamance County Task Force of the Friends of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail for their hard work!

Trail at Cedarock Park

Cedarock Park Updates

Written by Joseph Magyar on . Posted in Miscellaneous, Outdoors, Parks & Trails.

Cedarock Park Updates Effective Friday, October 28, 2022

On Friday, October 28, 2022, several changes will go into effect at Cedarock Park. These updates include:

  • The re-routing of Rock Creek and Spoon Branch Trails to provide a new hiking experience and showcase different areas of the park. The Rock Creek Trail will now be marked by yellow trail blazes (directional arrows) and still leads hikers to the iconic old mill dam. The trail can be accessed via the trailhead at Obel’s Shelter. The Spoon Branch Trail now begins alongside the historic farm, follows along the goat pasture, and leads to a hike among mature hardwood forests.
  • The relocation of the camping area. The new campsite area is now closer to parking and restroom facilities. Each campsite provides tent pads, picnic tables, and fire rings.
  • The addition of the Creekside Picnic Area. This space is located down the hill from Shelter 3, next to Rock Creek. The area features picnic tables, hammocks, and open space for relaxation.

Updated brochures (containing new maps) are available at each trail kiosk and at the park office.

Visit our website for more information and an updated park map alamanceparks.com.

For questions, contact Alamance Parks: recinfo@alamance-nc.com; 336-229-2410

Alcovets Balloon Festival

ALCOVETS Balloon Festival

Written by Joseph Magyar on . Posted in Events, Miscellaneous, Outdoors, Parks & Trails.

ALCOVETS Balloon Festival to be held at Cedarock Park on September 9-11, 2022.

The ALCOVETS Balloon Festival will be held at Cedarock Park on September 9-11, 2022. During this time, regular park operations and usage, including disc golf courses, footgolf course, playground, and the equestrian center will be closed to the public.

In order to gain entrance to Cedarock Park during the festival, visitors will need to purchase a parking pass which serves as admission to the festival. Tickets can be obtained by visiting the ALCOVETS Balloon Festival website (alcovets.org/balloon-festival). Tickets are available for one, two, and three-day admission. Each ticketed day is good for one consumer-sized vehicle and all its occupants.

Due to the large attendance expected for the festival, ALCOVETS encourages visitors to purchase their tickets in advance to ensure admission. Day-of admission cannot be guaranteed.

Alamance Parks invites the community to support the ALCOVETS Balloon Festival and their goal to raise funds to support our local veterans through the construction of the Chesnut Ridge Retreat campus.

For more information visit: alcovets.org/balloon-festival

Alamance County FMST Task Force Update

Written by Joseph Magyar on . Posted in Haw River Trail, Miscellaneous, Outdoors, Parks & Trails.

Nine volunteers with the Alamance County Task Force of the Friends of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail gathered Saturday morning, June 18th, near Carolina Mill. The team worked for four hours building a new trail down the Haw River toward Copland Mill. The new trail will provide an alternative to hiking from Carolina Mill to Stony Creek Marina, and avoid having to cross both Carolina Mill Road and Carolina Road.

At noon the group convened in the Carolina Mill parking area to enjoy a picnic catered by Peter Dahl. The task force will not be sponsoring Work Days during July and August, due to the high heat.

In the fall and following months, the Task Force will continue moving the current trail away from the Valley Golf Course fairway, and closer to the Haw River in several locations. The Alamance County Recreation & Parks Department has also obtained access to property along the Haw River north of Shallowford Natural Area so that in the future the Haw River/Mountains-to-Sea Trails can be extended toward Altamahaw.

The Alamance Task Force welcomes new volunteers in its endeavors. No prior experience is necessary, and tools and training will be provided. For more information contact Andrew Sam at: asam30035@gmail.com

Written by Bob Ellis, June 2022

Alamance Parks and Haw River Trail thanks the Alamance County Task Force of the Friends of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail for their work!

Alamance Parks Volunteer Trail Crew

Trail Building Continues at Cane Creek Mountains Natural Area

Written by Joseph Magyar on . Posted in Haw River Trail, Miscellaneous, Outdoors, Parks & Trails.

A group of volunteers has been working with Alamance Parks to construct a new hiking trail in the Cane Creek Mountains Natural Area, near Bass Mountain Road. The group began construction in April 2021 and has been working Wednesdays (weather permitting) over the last eleven months, clearing trees and vegetation and benching (leveling) the trail along inclines.

The new trail will be about a 4.2 mile loop when it is completed, starting at a parking lot that Alamance Parks has contracted to have built near the intersection of Bass Mountain Road and Broadrock Road. The trail will eventually have a side trail leading up to an observation tower, planned to be built at the highest point in the Cane Creek Mountains Natural Area.

One of the features of the new trail is the former Pioneer Camp, which was operated by Mr. John William Lindsay and his wife, Cynthia Garrett Lindsay, from 1937 until 1956.  The trail passes by several of the remaining buildings, including the foundation and chimney of the dining hall (pictured above behind the volunteers).

The trail is scheduled to open sometime in 2023 after the new parking lot along Bass Mountain Road is completed. It will add another scenic hike that will eventually connect with both existing trails and other trails planned for the future.

New volunteers are welcome. No previous experience is necessary, and tools will be provided. For more information contact Andrew Sam at: asam30035@gmail.com

Written by Bob Ellis, February 2022