So as to stay on our toes, avoid hangovers, behave, feel good about the new year on New Year's Day we will go play in the "gap" on the south side of Occaneechi Mountain Natural Area south of Hillsborough, NC. Along the way we'll see some old roads overlain b y I85 in the gap, some remarkable rock formations, a quarry and some beautiful vistas.
For some reason the editor won't take maps today, so you'll need to follow these instructions:
From exit 166 on I40 go north past I 85 and take the first left. Turn left at the stop sign and just before passing under I85 turn right into the Nature Area entrance. I40 has only one Hillsborough exit. Take the Hwy 86 exit from I85 and it dumps you on the route from I40; go north to the first light turn left, turn left, pass a right turn and then turn right on Virginia Cates Rd. From Hillsborough follow Orange Grove Road ('The Road to the Quakers' on Sautheir's Map) south to Virginia Cates Rd immediately north of I85, turn right on to the old roadbed and marvel at the remnants passed as you drive in to the parking lot.
We'll gather around two and walk until around four or until we get pooped or 'til it gets to dark or something like that. I vote that we bring treats, but we must tote out whatever we tote in.
Call if you have any questions. |
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