Iron Ore Belt Access Trails at Haw River State Park - Greensboro, NC
“In every walk in Nature one receives far more than he seeks.” - John Muir
“Hardships often prepare ordinary people for an extraordinary destiny.” - C.S. Lewis
Let go of your expectations of validation from others and validate yourself.
The Story -
On Sunday, Ginger, Sophie, and I hiked four miles on a combination of trails at the Iron Ore Belt Access / Haw River State Park in northern Greensboro, NC. And despite the overcast, hot, and humid conditions, we had a fantastic time on the trail.
Iron Ore Belt Access at the Haw River State Park -
The Iron Ore Belt Access at the Haw River State Park is one of the newest parks in the state, officially opening in July 2005. Located in the northern Piedmont Triad, it holds evidence of a long history of human interaction with the land; from prehistoric occupations to Revolutionary War activity, and, most recently, agriculture. The Park contains three excellent easy to moderate trails that immerse you in the area’s storied past - the Connector, the Great Blue Heron Loop, and the Iron Ore Pit Trails.
Spill The Tea -
We accessed the Great Blue Heron Loop Trail via a the short and shaded Connector Trail. The trail winds through a mixed hardwood forest, along vast wetlands, and old farm fields. The well-maintained path was wet and somewhat muddy from recent rains. And due to the rain, we were treated to hundreds of eclectic mushrooms, stopping many times to identify and photograph them. We eventually stopped at a picnic area for a snack and to admire limited views of the nearby Haw River. Shortly after the picnic area, the Great Blue Heron Loop Trail connects to the Iron Ore Pit Trail. This section passes by several iron ore outcroppings and even a fenced in historical iron ore mining pit.
Add Some Cream and Sugar -
After a restful and enjoyable week at the beach, it was nice to spend some time in the woods. I love the beach and the relaxation the ocean and walking on the beach provide, yet I feel most at peace on a trail in a forest. We felt we had the whole park to ourselves, only surrounded by the singing birds, trilling frogs, and hissing turtles. We even spotted several butterflues, hawks, and deer. Fortunately we did not come across any snakes.
The Haw River State Park also is home to the State of North Carolina’s first residential environmental center, the Summit Environmental Center. The Summit was originally built in the late 1980s by the Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina to serve as a retreat center and can host day programs and overnight retreats and conferences for groups ranging from 10 to 180 participants. The Environmental Education program provides a variety of courses and innovative activities. These wide-ranging courses are designed to enhance and supplement classroom curriculum, as well as foster a respect for nature.
Wrap It Up -
The Iron Ore Belt Access Trails at the Haw River State Park and Summit Environmental Center are hidden Triad gems that should be included on everyone’s hiking list. Pack a lunch and perhaps after hitting the trails, stop by the Summit Environmental Center to learn a little more about the amazing environment around us and the world we live in.
Sassafras and Skinks