Beginner Backpacking in Uwharrie National Forest

Join us to test your beginner backpacking skills in the little known Uwharrie National Forest, less than 2 hours from the Triangle. We will cover about 12 miles over 2 days using the Uwharrie Trail and Dutchman's Creek Trail. Along the way we'll talk about the history of the Uwharrie Mountains, some of the oldest in North America. Here is a PDF of the planned route as presented in the Uwharrie Lakes Region Trail Guide, Hike 205.

Those who can will meet in Raleigh at 8am for caravaning to the Wood Run Trailhead, where we will set out on foot down the Uwharrie Trail. We'll backpack approximately 6 miles on Saturday and set up camp along Big Island Creek. Sunday morning we will pack up and continue back to the trailhead on the Dutchman's Creek Trail, about 6 miles.

Pre-trip class (Backpacking 101 on Sunday, February 16) or Backpacking Conditioning (in Umstead on Saturday, March 22), or phone/email consultation to assess gear and experience is mandatory. Group size for this trip is limited to 5 tents/15 people due to space restrictions of campsite. Please contact trip leaders at rezeli@bellsouth.net or 919-971-3788 for more information. Logistics and details will be finalized and shared once approved for trip.