A paddling trip on the Deep River passes beneath two old railroad bridges, from the launch point at Highway 421 to Deep River Park. It takes about an hour and a half and brings the river together with a remarkable bridge story: the Deep River Camelback Truss Bridge was dismantled in 1932 and rebuilt at its current location over the Deep River. Only four Camelback truss bridges remain in North Carolina.
Rivers and Trails by the Water
Deep River Park offers scenic views, picnic areas and easy access to canoeing and kayaking. If you are planning a river trip, check river conditions before paddling. Two different experiences are at the heart of this visit: time on the water and the historic bridge over the Deep River.
Jordan Lake State Recreation Area also brings together several ways to enjoy the water. It includes seven access areas in Chatham County and offers opportunities for camping, boating and swimming. Lower Haw River State Natural Area extends from upstream of US 15-501 near Bynum to downstream of US 64, where it borders Jordan Lake State Recreation Area. Several canoe and kayak launch points are located along the lower stretches of the Haw River.
Woodlands and Hiking Trails
White Pines Nature Preserve occupies a peninsula at the confluence of the Deep River and Rocky River. Nearly six miles of trails offer hikes along river bluffs and through lower-lying floodplain areas close to the water. Plants here include eastern white pines, mountain plants and wildflowers such as the Catawba rhododendron. The Gilbert Yager Trail runs through the southern part of the preserve and crosses several types of woodland.
Trail lengths also offer a concrete comparison: White Pines Nature Preserve has nearly six miles of trails, while the American Tobacco Trail in the northeastern part of the county covers 4.6 miles. A different woodland setting can be found at Jordan Lake Educational State Forest, with a variety of pines and hardwoods in a wetland ecosystem. Ranger-led programs are offered there for groups of ten or more.
Jordan Lake State Recreation Area complements these woodland and river landscapes with camping, boating and swimming. Those who prefer to spend their time on trails can find both river bluffs and lower-lying areas close to the water at White Pines Nature Preserve. The changing landscapes make its trails a discovery in their own right, alongside the activities on the water.
History, Wildlife and Culture
At the Chatham Historical Museum in the historic Chatham County Courthouse in Pittsboro, the timeline spans from the era before European settlement to modern changes. Stories about schools, churches, general stores and places from the past and present offer a glimpse into the county’s social fabric. The Pittsboro Gallery of Arts exhibits fine art and crafts.
The grounds of Silk Hope Farm Heritage Park feature antique agricultural equipment and historic farm buildings, including a tobacco barn. Also on site are working steam and diesel engines and a homestead dating from the American Civil War. Visitors can explore the agricultural equipment year-round and picnic on site; since visitor guidelines may change, check them before your visit.
Carolina Tiger Rescue is a nonprofit wildlife sanctuary dedicated to protecting and rescuing captive and wild cats. The animals can only be seen on a guided tour. Options include public tours, Twilight Tours and Tiger Tales Tours; tickets for all tours must be purchased in advance. Since booking requirements may change, check the guidelines before your visit.
Local Produce and Special Tours
Fearrington Farmers’ Market is a producer-only market with a 50-mile sourcing radius and a focus on local vendors. It takes place year-round on Tuesday afternoons; check the schedule before you go. Southern Supreme Fruitcake and More began in 1984 with a recipe for a fruitcake with nuts. Tastings and tours are offered year-round; check in advance for holiday exceptions.
Tastings and tours also have different focuses: Starrlight Mead & Cider offers guided mead tastings during opening hours; availability and prices may change. bmc brewing offers brewery tours. The Plant offers hemp tours and walking trails. U-pick visits at Chatham Oaks Farm are available during peak seasons; seasonal availability may change, so checking in advance is recommended.
For a drive through the countryside, the Devil’s Tramping Ground Road Scenic Byway runs from Pittsboro toward Bear Creek. The Devil’s Tramping Ground site itself is on private property. Another bridge with a story of its own is Bynum Bridge, which has been a pedestrian bridge since 1999.
Explore more destinations: Siler City, Pittsboro, Bear Creek, Alamance, Hertford County, Harnett County, Moore County, Henderson.
Return to the main travel overview: North Carolina.
