What is your Outdoor Passion
All trails in and around Randolph County. As Randolph County Trail Coordinator, I am dedicated to preserving and growing the trails and trail community here in Randolph County.
Most over looked area to recreate
Franklinville Rail Trail section of the Deep River State Trail extending 1.75 miles to Sandy Creek Bridge and access (3.5 miles roundtrip) and Faith Rock Trail (.75 mile). These are some of the newest trails in Randolph County and offer stunning views of the Franklinville area.
What’s your favorite season to recreate in NC
Spring and Fall. Temperatures are optimal and scenery is gorgeous. Springtime showcases blooming flowers and trees; Fall colors compete highly with the mountainous regions of North Carolina.
What level of experience is needed to recreate in this area
Beginner. These sections of trails are relatively flat and east to access. They offer the perfect setting for getting outdoors at all hiking levels.
How long should you plan on visiting the area
At least one day. Be sure to check out the surrounding area of Franklinville and beyond!
What sets the area apart from other destinations
This historic mill village has a traditional setting along the scenic Deep River. There is a lot of history, culture, and natural heritage along this old rail trail.
What is unique about the facilities and infrastructure of the area
Authentic outdoor experience walking along the Deep River on a fine gravel rail trail with remains of grist, textile, and cotton mills as well as hardwood forests and large rocks. Also, includes a natural surface trail to Faith Rock, the scene of a Revolutionary War incident and a variety of river and rockface plant communities.
How do you plan ahead and prepare for your recreational activity
Depending on the length of your walk, decide which of Franklinville’s four trailhead/parking areas to begin. Be sure to leave time to dine at the Franklinville Diner for local home cooking. Wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather. Dogs on a leash are welcome.
What piece of outdoor equipment is your must have
Comfortable foot wear. No matter where I'm going in Randolph County, comfortable and protective footwear is the first item on my checklist.
How do you put one Outdoor NC Leave no trace principle in action before/during/or after your activity
Tote along reusable water bottle and keep an eye out for trash cans and doggie waste stations. This ensures that we are following the trash your trash principles.
Favorite place for to visit before or after an outdoor adventure for a meal/coffee/or another beverage
Dine locally for breakfast or lunch at Franklinville Diner, before or after your hike.
Share a unique place to stay in the area. Why would you recommend these accommodations
Great family friendly accommodations in the Asheboro area, located off Hwy 64; also check out Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Campground; try Postcard Cabins near the North Carolina Zoo in Asheboro making your escape to nature easier than ever.
Other overlooked and under visited locations in the area to see while in town
Visit the nearby Ramseur Trail section of the Deep River State Trail. At the Sandy Creek access, go downstream on the Ramseur Rail Trail section to Harlan Creek (.75 mile) where a bridge is planned to connect to the other end of the Trail and Columbia Cotton Access (.75 mile). Faith Rock Access to Harlan Creek is 2.5 miles for a round trip total of 5 miles. Future plans are to connect Downtown Franklinville to Downtown Ramseur via a bridge over Harlan Creek for a roundtrip total of 6.5 miles.
What is your ‘can’t miss experience’ in the area
Faith Rock Trail is a MUST for your explorations. American Patriot Andrew Hunter was cornered by the Tory Colonel Fanning atop this 50-foot blue stone outcrop in 1782, during the Revolutionary War. In his escape efforts, he rode his horse straight of the rock into the Deep River – taking a “leap of faith.” Hike up to the top of the rock where history was made.
Insider tip
Be sure to eat at the Franklinville Diner and have grilled Pound Cake for dessert!
