I split this hike up into two separate 4-mile hikes. The first hike was on May 14th starting at the NC Highway 64 parking area.
From the parking area, you go down to the river and turn right heading upstream going under the Highway 64 bridge that crosses the Haw River.
The trail is unmarked and sometimes the footpath disappears completely due to overgrowth or you have to step over logs laying across the path and go around trees that have fallen.
This Haw River was relatively shallow and quite tamed on this day.
While going upstream there are two creek crossings. There are no bridges, so you pick your crossing spot. It wasn't much of a problem on this day because this first creek barely had any water flowing in it.
Lots of rain from the previous days give the Haw River an intimidating look with some sections flooded and moving very rapidly.
Not all that intimidating here.
I found it interesting looking at the various track in the mud. Along with human and dog tracks, I see what could be a raccoon and some other unidentified tracks.
Pokeberry Creek created a challenge for me to cross. I had to travel it upstream for 1/4 of a mile until I could find a place to wade across in ankle-deep water. The creek measures about 15 yards wide.
The Lower Haw River Natural Area had all sorts of trees and plant life. Red Oak, black gums, hickories, elms, sourwood, and this tall Red Pine. I carry a day pack with me which usually has three 16 oz bottles of water, toilet paper, Gypey's water bowl, dog biscuits, and an energy snack for me. If it's a wilderness area or not a heavily traveled trail I'll carry my bear repellent and some other survival items.
