3/20/2010 @ 11:00

3/20/2010

Postal code 27514, US
Chapel Hill, NC 27514

Looking for a bit of a challenge? Then let's go out and hike at New Hope Overlook at Jordan Lake in Chatham County! The trails at New Hope Overlook are the newest and most strenuous of the Jordan Lake trails. The red loop is 5.4 miles in length and the blue loop, which features several challenging hills, is 2.7 (we will be doing the 5.4 mile loop for this hike). Hikers will enjoy sweeping views of the lake, mature hardwood forests, groves of mountain laurel, numerous creeks, and a variety of wildflowers and ferns, in warm weather. This is my favorite of the Chatham County trails. One gets the sense of hiking in the mountains with the added enhancement of wonderful views of Jordan Lake. The trails begin near the bathrooms at the boat launch. These flush-toilet bathrooms are open year-round and water can be obtained from the sinks. During the off season, water in the outdoor spigots is turned off. Bringing your own water is recommended. There are times during the year when a fee is required to enter this recreational area, but not for the date of this hike. For a map of the New Hope Overlook Recreation Area, go to: http://ncparks.gov/Visit/parks/jord/pics/newhope.pdf Level of Hike: Moderate / Strenuous ÂÂ- This hike is NOT ideal for a beginner due to length and terrain. There are several challenging hills, but with the hills comes the sense of hiking in the mountains with beautiful views of Jordan Lake. If you are looking for a good workout and a bit of a challenge with some beautiful scenery, this is a great hike. Terrain: Wooded, uneven trails with loose rocks and roots. The trail does go beside Jordan Lake for some nice scenic views. There are a some challenging hills on this hike. Footwear: Hiking boots highly recommended, but sturdy outdoor shoes should do. Distance: 5.4 miles Dog Policy: Dogs are allowed on the trail, but must be on a leash no more than 6 feet and only 1 dog per person. Please be prepared to pick up after any "accidents" on the trail. Jordan Lake is a multi-use recreational area and offers, in addition to hiking, boating, swimming, picnicking and camping. You may want to combine your hike with some other outdoor fun. For additional information about Jordan Lake, go to: http://ncparks.gov/Visit/parks/jord/main.php Directions: From Chapel Hill: Take 15-501 South past Fearrington Village/Galloway Ridge, get in the left turn lane and turn left onto Mt. Gilead Rd. In about 5 miles you will intersect with Hwy 64. Turn left onto Hwy 64 and go over both sections of Jordan Lake to the first stoplight (about 3 miles). Turn right onto Beaver Creek Road/SR1008 and continue for three miles. Turn right onto Pea Ridge Road and continue for 2.2 miles. Turn right onto W. H. Jones Rd.. Continue .1 mile to the park entrance and follow signs to the boat launch. From Durham and Points East of Chapel Hill: Get to Hwy 64 by whatever route you find most convenient. Travel west on Hwy 64 to Wilsonville (the first stoplightÂÂ-about 5 miles--past 751). Turn left on Beaver Creek Road/SR1008 and continue for three miles. Turn right onto Pea Ridge Road and continue for 2.2 miles. Turn right onto W. H. Jones Rd.. Continue .1 miles to park entrance. The trails begin near the bathrooms at the boat ramp. We will meet in the parking lot and drive a 2-door black Explorer with kayak racks on the top. The hike will start on time at 11:00AM, so please be on time or prepared to catch up. Look forward to seeing everyone. For a map of the New Hope Overlook Recreation Area, go to: http://ncparks.gov/Visit/parks/jord/pics/newhope.pdf