River Trail

The River Trail in the White Pines Nature Preserve makes for an easy 2 mile stroll through the woods. Another highlight along the trail is the confluence of the Rocky and Deep Rivers. Along the route, many birds and wildlife can be spotted.

River Trail Description

The River Trail is most easily accessed from the White Pines Trail (marked red on the kiosk at the second parking area). Begin along the White Pines Trail where you’ll gently trend downward through the forest. Sign posts with red markings will guide you along the way. At 0.25 miles in, you’ll reach a gate indicating a junction. On the gate is a sign for the Canoe Launch, also starting the River Trail. Take a left, heading around the gate, and begin heading down from there.

The River Trail, marked with blue sign posts, continues the downward trend as it nears the Rocky River. The twists and turns through the forest are relaxed and peaceful as you make your way down. Prior to reaching the river, you’ll reach a junction with the Schoolkids Trail at roughly 0.5 miles. Continue straight where you’ll see the Rocky River come into view through the trees.

Continue to the right, winding along the forested bank of the river. Along the way, turtles can be seen sunning on exposed rocks and logs above the water, while numerous birds frequent the area. At 1 mile in, you’ll reach the confluence of the Rocky and Deep Rivers. A bench just off of the trail invites you to stay for a while and watch the wildlife and scenery.

When you’re ready, continue along the River Trail, now heading in a more southern direction along the Deep River. Bending along the bank of the river, the trail soon begins climbing a hill. Though it is short-lived, this is the steepest part of the trail. Once up the hill, you’ll begin winding back toward the White Pines Trail.

Upon reaching the junction with the White Pines Trail, take a left. You’ll continue the peaceful meander through the deciduous forest where you’ll then reach the original junction, closing out the River Trail Loop. Head straight past it to return to the parking area.

Getting There

From Pittsboro, head south along US-15 S/US-501 S/Sanford Rd for 7.8 miles. Take a left onto River Forks Road. Continue straight as it turns into South Rocky River Road, and follow the road until it dead-ends at the parking lot.