This week I felt like a butterfly who had been in her cocoon forever and was finally released! No school. No work. No obligations. Just a day to do whatever I chose. I chose to hit the road! (At $4.69 that may not have been the wisest idea, but I had to.) I did not go far in mileage, but to me it was a world away -- country roads, trails, a river, trees, birds, rabbits...
I went to Saxapahaw Island Park in Alamance County to begin my day. The park is right on the river with a trail that circles a small island. The trail is mostly flat with lovely views of the river. There were several other walkers, some with dogs which were on leashes. There was a small play area with some tables. There were also benches strategically placed along the trail. Last but not least, there was a porta-potty. I walked the trail twice, since it was only a little over a mile long. I also sat on one of the benches and read for a while. I had a very pleasant time.
For lunch I went to the Saxapahaw General Store. This looks like a small country store on the outside and continues to deceive you upon entrance, but it is additionally an upscale eatery. They have an extensive menu which you order from at the counter. Drinks are self-serve, but they do deliver the food to your table. I got a lamb burger on greens with ranch dressing and feta cheese. It was very good. Sorry no pic. I was starving. I have a link to the general store below, and their menu is online.
After lunch I drove cross country to another park still in Alamance County -- Cedarock Park. This is a large park with picnic shelters, frisbee golf, a playground, a lake, restroom areas, a visitor center, and several trails. The trail I walked on went near a creek and was definitely more hilly and rockier than my morning trail. The views were even lovelier though. And in the fall this will be an amazing hike. I'm already planning to return. There is a small waterfall in the park somewhere, but I did not select the trail that allowed me to see it. After walking 10 miles for the day, I was ready to head home.
I am so thankful to have a job that allows me summers off. I am looking forward to visiting more new places this summer and revisiting some of my favorites from the past. I hope that I have given you Greensboro peeps some inspiration for visiting a couple of places that are each less than an hour away. I personally am already dreaming about my next road trip... This butterfly is not going back in the cocoon!
Links to important sites:
