**Hiking and Paddling North Carolina’s Piedmont: A Four-Day Adventure**
North Carolina’s Piedmont region is a treasure trove of natural beauty, with a rich tapestry of forests, rivers, and rolling hills. It’s the perfect destination for a multi-day adventure that combines hiking and paddling.
This four-day itinerary takes you through some of the most stunning landscapes in the region, from the Uwharrie National Forest to the Uwharrie River. You’ll hike to scenic overlooks, paddle along tranquil rivers, and camp under the stars. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to explore historic sites, spot wildlife, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the natural world.
**Day 1:**
* Arrive at Uwharrie National Forest and set up camp at the Badin Lake Recreation Area..
* Hike to the Badin Lake Overlook for panoramic views of the lake and surrounding forest..
* Paddle around Badin Lake, keeping an eye out for wildlife..
* Return to camp and relax by the campfire.
**Day 2:**.
* Hike to the Morrow Mountain Overlook for stunning views of the Uwharrie Mountains..
* Continue hiking to the summit of Morrow Mountain, the highest point in the Uwharrie National Forest..
* Descend the mountain and hike back to the trailhead..
* Return to camp and prepare dinner over the campfire.
**Day 3:**
* Drive to the Uwharrie River and launch your kayak or canoe at the Old Mill Access..
* Paddle downstream along the Uwharrie River, enjoying the scenery and wildlife..
* Stop for a picnic lunch on the riverbank..
* Continue paddling to the takeout point at the Uwharrie River Landing..
* Return to camp and relax by the campfire.
**Day 4:**.
* Hike to the Uwharrie National Recreation Trail and follow it along the Uwharrie River..
* Explore the historic ruins of the Old Mill and the remnants of the Uwharrie Canal..
* Hike back to the trailhead and return to your car..
* Depart from Uwharrie National Forest, taking with you memories of an unforgettable adventure.
**Tips for Planning Your Trip:**
* This itinerary is just a suggestion, and you can customize it to fit your interests and abilities..
* Be sure to check the weather forecast before you go and pack accordingly..
* Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no services along the trails or river..
* Let someone know your itinerary and expected return date..
* Be respectful of the environment and pack out everything you pack in.
**Additional Activities:**
* Visit the Uwharrie National Forest Visitor Center to learn more about the area’s history and natural resources..
* Go fishing in Badin Lake or the Uwharrie River..
* Explore the historic town of Badin, which was once a thriving textile mill town..
* Visit the Morrow Mountain State Natural Area to see the famous Morrow Mountain Sphinx, a natural rock formation that resembles the face of a sphinx.
**Getting There:**
* The Uwharrie National Forest is located in central North Carolina, about an hour east of Charlotte..
* The closest airport is Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT)..
* You can also take Amtrak to Albemarle, NC, and then rent a car to drive to the forest.
**Camping:**
* There are several campgrounds in Uwharrie National Forest, including Badin Lake Recreation Area and Morrow Mountain State Natural Area..
* You can also backcountry camp along the Uwharrie National Recreation Trail.
**Paddling:**
* You can rent kayaks and canoes at several outfitters in the area, including Uwharrie Outfitters and Uwharrie River Canoe Company..
* You can also bring your own kayak or canoe and launch it at one of the public access points along the Uwharrie River.
**Hiking:**
* There are over 100 miles of hiking trails in Uwharrie National Forest, ranging from easy to challenging..
* Be sure to pick a trail that is appropriate for your fitness level and experience.
**Wildlife:**
* The Uwharrie National Forest is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, black bears, coyotes, bobcats, and otters..
* Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to avoid encounters with wildlife.
**Safety:**
* Always hike and paddle with a buddy..
* Be aware of the weather forecast and be prepared for changing conditions..
* Bring a map and compass or GPS device..
* Let someone know your itinerary and expected return date.
**Leave No Trace:**
* Please pack out everything you pack in and leave the area as you found it..
* Respect wildlife and their habitat..
* Stay on designated trails and avoid disturbing plants and animals.
**Additional Resources:**
* Uwharrie National Forest website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/nfsnc/recarea/?recid=79652.
* Uwharrie National Recreation Trail website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/nfsnc/recarea/?recid=47584.
* Uwharrie Outfitters website: https://www.uwharrieoutfitters.com/.
* Uwharrie River Canoe Company website: https://www.uwharrierivercanoe.com/.
