We are celebrating 2023 as the Year of the Trail! This year, we will talk about the various trails located throughout the park, highlight some of the special features you can find as you hike, and give you some tips for successful, safe, and fun hikes. For more information about the Year of the Trail, check out the Year of the Trail website, and keep an eye on our Events List at the park for all our upcoming activities!
Since we know everyone is very excited to get 2023 started the best way (which means being outside!), Carvers Creek will hold three different hikes on January 1. (All hikes will start at 11 a.m., so you can only sign up for one, sorry!) The hikes will be held rain or shine (or snow!). Please sign up by calling the park at 910-436-4681 or clicking the "Register" button on the event webpage.
History Hike
This will be held at the Long Valley Farm trailhead off of East Manchester Road. It will be led by one of our experienced volunteers and will give hikers the opportunity to learn about the natural history of the area, the history of Long Valley Farm and the Rockefeller family, and the history of the park since we opened in 2013. Expect the hike to be about 3 miles on sandy terrain. During the hike you'll visit some of the historic buildings at Long Valley Farm, including the various houses used by the workers when Long Valley Farm was operating, the Rockefeller House, and the old farm area that is currently off-limits to the public. Unfortunately, due to upcoming construction, we will not be able to tour the Rockefeller House. Meet near the front office at 11 a.m., and don't forget to call in or stop in the office to sign up.
Sense Hike
This hike will start at the office at Long Valley Farm access point off East Manchester Road. Led by the park superintendent, this hike is geared towards children and families, but anyone who would like to learn more about nature observation is welcome! During the short hike, which will take place near the office at Long Valley Farm, everyone will get a chance to explore nature using taste, touch, smell, sight, and hearing! Can you hear the birds? See how the bare branches of the trees move in the breeze? How does the cold air feel against your face? Meet at the Long Valley Farm office by the parking lot at 11 a.m. Call or stop by the office to sign up.
Nature Hike at Sandhills Access
The parking lot is at the end of McCloskey Road off of Ramsey Street. You'll explore the area during an over-2-mile hike through the longleaf pines. You'll get a chance to see some of the native grasses and other plants that thrive in the longleaf ecosystem, look for birds and other animals that frequent the area, and learn about why prescribed fires are critical for the health of the longleaf pine. We'll talk about the history of the area — how the Fayetteville and Cape Fear areas first came to be settled and the early economy. Bring your binoculars to look for some of the birds that live in the area! Call or stop by the office to sign up.
General Hiking Tips
To start the new year off right, here are some hiking tips while at Carvers Creek:
- We love pets! Pets are welcome, but for everyone's safety and enjoyment, they must be on a leash.
- Hiking and biking are available at both access points (Long Valley Farm and Sandhills), while equestrian activities are limited to the Sandhills access. No motorized vehicles are authorized on any trail, except ranger and staff vehicles.
- The terrain in both access points is generally sandy and flat but with some small hills scattered throughout the trails. Comfortable walking shoes or boots are recommended for all hikes.
- Bring the kids and help them earn their Junior Ranger badge! Stop by the office and get the free Junior Ranger Guide. Complete the activities in the book to earn points toward your Junior Ranger badge. There are plenty of fun and easy activities for different ages. Stop back at the office after you finish, and one of the staff will help you with your certificate and Junior Ranger award!
- Check the map before you go! Trail maps are available in the office at Long Valley Farm and at the signboards at each parking area. Remember, the Longleaf Pine Trail is 4 miles one way (it's not a loop until you turn around and walk the 4 miles back!). But we have several other shorter trails, so you can make your hike as long or short as you'd like.
- Some activities, like professional photography or large group events, require a Special Activity Permit. If you aren't certain if your event requires a permit, stop at the Long Valley Farm office and we'll answer any questions you have.
Check out the Year of the Trail website for more trail-centered activities across the state!
Carvers Creek Trail Quest
Come join us in celebrating the Year of the Trail by walking 100 miles throughout 2023!
Hit 100 miles by walking on Carvers Creek's own trails! Visit our Sandhills access or Long Valley Farm access to hike and work towards milestone prizes! Pick up a mileage log at our park office to get started.