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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. 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. 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

Special Olympics Alamance County Spring Games To Be Held April 6, 2023

Written by Joseph Magyar on . Posted in Athletics, Miscellaneous, Special Olympics, Special Populations, Special Populations Events, Visually Impaired Program.

The 2023 Special Olympics Alamance County Spring Games will be held on Thursday, April 6, 2023, at Elon University’s Belk Track. Over 300 athletes and 200 volunteers will participate in this event which is the largest event in Alamance County for people with special needs.

Opening Ceremonies begin at 9:30am and include a time of prayer and lighting of the cauldron before officially opening the 2023 games. Spring Games offers two track and field events, including a 100M walk/run/roll and a softball/tennis ball throw for distance. This event is the highlight of the year for SOAC!

Special Olympics Alamance County (SOAC) serves 400 adult and youth athletes with developmental disabilities and provides year-round athletic competition in 5 sports in addition to a fitness program. Participants are provided the opportunity to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, and experience joy at all levels – all at no cost. 

Volunteers are needed! For more information about Spring Games and for a link to volunteer, visit alamanceparks.com or call (336) 570-6760.

Volunteer to Help with Spring Games!

For more information, contact:

Mackenzie Greenly, Alamance County Special Olympics Coordinator  

336.570.6760 • mackenzie.greenly@alamance-nc.com

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 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 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

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!

Easton Foundations Awards Grant to Alamance Parks Archery Program

Written by Joseph Magyar on . Posted in Athletics, Community Centers, Eli Whitney, Miscellaneous, Pleasant Grove.

Easton Foundations Awards Grant to Alamance Parks Archery Program

The Easton Foundations awarded Alamance Parks a grant to outfit the Eli Whitney and Pleasant Grove Community Centers with the necessary equipment to support the Department’s growing Archery program. The grant will fund the purchase of archery equipment including targets, bows, arrows, archery curtains and rack systems, and acoustic backing curtains for the gyms. This equipment will enable the Department to offer additional archery programs as well as open gym hours for target practice.

Alamance Parks began offering an archery program in January of 2020. The initial program was supported by a grant from USA Archery which provided instructor training and equipment. The Department currently offers four Archery sessions each year led by two USA Archery Certified Level 2 Instructors. Demand for the archery programs consistently exceeds the Department’s current capacity to offer them. The Easton Foundations Grant award will enable the Department to expand its archery offerings to the community.

The next Explore Archery class session will be offered in the fall of 2022. For more information, visit alamanceparks.com


 


Alamance Parks Launches New Adaptive and Inclusive Recreation Programs

Written by Joseph Magyar on . Posted in Athletics, Community Centers, Miscellaneous, Pleasant Grove, Special Olympics, Special Populations, Special Populations Events, Visually Impaired Program.

Alamance Parks Launches New Adaptive and Inclusive Recreation Programs

Alamance Park is launching a new Adaptive and Inclusive Recreation Program. Starting in March 2022, the Department will sponsor programs that are open to the general public and are inclusive for all participants.
 
The initial programs include Trail Walking and Yoga. The first Trail Walking event will be held on March 9 at 10am at Cedarock Park. Participants in Trail Walking will meet once a month at one of the many great trails in Alamance County. This program is perfect for those who are new to trails and want to get active while being outdoors.     
 
Yoga Made Easy begins March 17 at 5:30pm at the Pleasant Grove Community Center. This class is catered to participants who are new to yoga but all skill levels are welcome. Everything needed to participate, including mats and blocks, will be provided.  
 
Trail Walking and Yoga Made Easy are free and open to all participants. For a full schedule of events, please visit alamanceparks.com.
 
For more information about the Adaptive and Inclusive Recreation Program, please contact Adaptive and Inclusive Recreation Coordinator, Mackenzie Greenly at Mackenzie.greenly@alamance-nc.com or 336-570-6760.