White Pines Nature Preserve

DESCRIPTION

White Pines Nature Preserve, Triangle Land Conservancy’s flagship property, was the first purchased and is still the most biologically significant—home to federally endangered fish and plant species. Located at the confluence of the Deep and Rocky Rivers, the preserve is a great place to hike, offering beautiful views of the forest and rivers.

It supports several stands of white pines, a tree that is normally found in the cooler mountain region of North Carolina. Many other mountain plants and wildflowers, including Catawba rhododendron, grow at White Pines. The Gilbert Yager Trail explores the southern portion of the preserve, meandering through several distinct forestry types: dry oak-hickory forest on the ridge, Piedmont bottomland forest in the Deep River floodplain, and several stands of native white pines.

There are accesses for canoeing and kayaking. White Pines Nature Preserve is part of the NC Birding Trail.

FEATURES

DIRECTIONS

From the traffic circle in Pittsboro, head south on NC 87. After 7 miles, you will cross the Rocky River. After another mile, you should turn left on River Forks Road (SR 1958). Take an immediate right turn – this road will turn to gravel after 1.2 miles. At mile 1.6, go right at the stop sign. The road veers left after 0.6 miles (but you will see a driveway that veers right). Go another 0.3 miles to the trailhead/parking area.