Goose Creek State Park grapples with aftermath of Hurricane Irene

Goose Creek State Park

Took this photo at Goose Creek State Park 2 years ago. The park is still grappling with storm damage from Hurricane Irene: According to the park website, the Ivey Gut Trial, Flatty Creek Trail, and a portion of Goose Creek Trial remain closed until further notice and all camping areas are also closed. Good reminder to always check state parks’ websites before you hit the road. An article in the Washington Daily News describes the cleanup work at the park. Good luck to the park staff and residents of that area still dealing with the aftermath of the storm.

Live oaks at Goose Creek SP

Stone Mountain State Park in early October

View of Stone Mountain from the base

Took a nice hike on the Cedar Rock Trail in early October. No fall colors at that time, but it was a lovely warm day and folks of all ages were enjoying hiking in the park. Just checked the Stone Mountain State Park website and it said that this weekend is the peak of fall color. If you have time, head up there this week. I’m sure your boss will understand when you explain that a hike in a park will enhance your productivity the following day. Just don’t tell them you read that on the internet.

I bet the crowds will have thinned out, but hopefully the leaves will still be putting on a show. Of course, you can always call the park office before you head up there to find out what’s going on colorwise. (336) 957-8185.

– Ida Phillips

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Niche is currently working on the 2nd edition of North Carolina State Parks, to be published by UNC Press. 

Follow our blog – we’ll be posting highlights from our travels around the state as we work on the new edition of North Carolina State Parks.