Friends of Lower Haw is offering another outing in its “Take a Walk on the Wild Side” hiking series in the Lower Haw River State Natural Area, this time with a Gabriel’s Bend Overlook Hike on Fri, May 8, 6pm-7pm. Join Outdoor NC Guide & Haw River native Ben Clarke and his trusty dog Rocco for a spectacular 1.5-mile round-trip evening hike down the west bank of the Haw from Highway 64. You’ll pass some of the most famous rapids on the river and lots of native mountain laurel, which should be at the peak of their flowering season! The hike will take us to Gabriel’s Bend, a Class III rapid where the Haw has cut a mighty cliff out of the riverbank. The trail climbs this cliff to a unique overlook surveying more than a mile of the river!

Please be aware that this hike involves plenty of rock scrambling, uneven ground on informal trails, and the risk of poison ivy, ticks, and mosquitoes. Sturdy shoes, bug spray, and water are recommended! Friendly dogs on leash are welcome but may struggle with the terrain. Anyone up for a somewhat challenging but highly rewarding hike is welcome – no pre-registration required! Contact [email protected] for questions or to RSVP. See more Chatham Sports Alliance Events.