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Outdoor NC has partnered with local tourism organizations across the state to help promote the protection of North Carolina’s stunning and diverse outdoor spaces by practicing the 7 Principles of Leave No Trace. Here are some insider tips if you're visiting the Franklinville and Ramseur area.
Q&A host: Heart of NC Visitors Bureau
Outdoor passion: Walking
Where in NC: Franklinville and Ramseur
Favorite places in the Franklinville or Ramseur area to spend outdoors?
The Franklinville Rail Trail section of the Deep River State Trail extending 1.75 miles (3.5 miles round trip), and the Faith Rock Trail (.75 miles).
Best season to spend in NC?
Spring and fall. Temperatures are optimal, and the scenery is gorgeous. Springtime showcases blooming flowers and trees, while our fall colors compete highly with our mountainous regions of North Carolina.
What level of experience is needed for walking the Deep River Rail Trail?
Beginner.
How long should you plan on visiting?
Up to three days or more to explore the entire area.
What attracted you to North Carolina or the Franklinville or Ramseur area?
This historic mill village has a traditional setting along the scenic Deep River. There is a lot of history, culture and natural heritage along this old rail trail.
What is unique about the area around the Deep River Rail Trail?
The authentic outdoor experience walking along the Deep River on a fine gravel rail trail with remains of grist, textile and cotton mills, as well as hardwood forests and large rocks. Also, it includes a natural surface trail to Faith Rock, the scene of a Revolutionary War incident and a variety of river and rock face plant communities.
How do you plan or prepare for your outdoor activities?
Depending on the length of your walk, decide which of Franklinville's three trailhead/parking areas to begin. Be sure to leave time to dine at the Franklinville Diner for local home cooking. Wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather. Dogs on a leash are welcome.
What piece of gear is your must-have?
Comfortable footwear.
How do you practice the Leave No Trace principles?
Tote along reusable drinkware, and keep an eye out for trash cans and doggie stations.
Best places for breakfast/lunch or dinner?
Dine locally for breakfast or lunch at Heritage Diner (on the first floor of the American Classic Motorcycle Museum), before or after you hike. Enjoy dinner in downtown Asheboro with options of The Flying Pig Food & Spirits, Magnolia 23, Hamilton's Steakhouse, Positano, The Taco Loco, Hop's Bar-B-Q or Times Square Pizza; check out Lumina Wine and Beer or Four Saints Brewing Company (it sometimes hosts food trucks, live music or fun themed trivia).
Cool places to stay near the Deep River Rail Trail?
There are great family-friendly accommodations in the Asheboro area, located off Highway 64. You can also check out Yogi Bear's Jellystone Campground. Or try Getaway Asheboro cabins near the North Carolina Zoo, making your escape to nature easier than ever.
Other sites in the area to see while in town?
Visit the Ramseur Trail section of the Deep River State Trail nearby – it features two shorter sections (.6 and .5 miles) along Deep River. The future plans are to connect these trails to the Franklinville Rail Trail via a bridge over Sandy Creek for a round-trip total of 5 miles.
What is your can't-miss experience near Franklinville or Ramseur?
Faith Rock Trail is a MUST for your explorations. American patriot Andrew Hunter was cornered by the Tory Army atop this 50-foot blue stone outcrop in 1782 during the Revolutionary War. In his escape efforts, he rode his horse straight off the rock into the Deep River – taking a "leap of faith." Hike up to the top of the rock to see where history was made.
Insider tip!
Continue your outdoor exploration by visiting Millstone Creek Orchards for a farm tour among the fruit trees, and top off your visit with an apple cider slushie!
This article was produced in partnership with the Heart of NC Visitors Bureau. Visit Outdoor NC for additional tips on how to connect with nature and help preserve the natural beauty of our state.
