Shallow Ford Natural Area

Gravel parking lot with a paddle boat slip. All of the trails are on dirt paths and the longest of which is 3.3 miles. Trail markers are frequent and easy to spot and the trails are well maintained. The trails are hilly in parts and some muddy spots but nothing too strenuous. The Haw River is muddy and fast flowing so this is not the time or place for a swim!

Nice hike with some views along the Haw River. We did the full Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue loop - about 3.3 miles. It had rained a lot the past couple of days, so a little muddy in spots, but not too bad. Not very crowded either. A little hilly, but mostly easy walking. I certainly recommend this hike if your looking for a good trail a little off the beaten path.

Went hiking here a couple of weeks ago with the dog. This area is beautiful and the trails are well maintained and easy to follow. Did a bit of geocaching along the way. :)

Excellent natural area with a few miles of trails, lots of river frontage, decent hills, old homesteads...fun!nnNot a lot of foot traffic - usually just a couple of cars in the parking lot. There are a couple of campsites, but mostly used by paddlers making their way along the river. There are plenty of well marked trails, nice bridges over the small creek, and an old homesite on top of one of the hills.nnCan be slippery if it's rained recently - take care on the silt of the flood plain along the river.

Backpacked in and camped overnight. Great local spot if you're looking for primitive camping close to home.