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When I lived in the Concord area, I loved taking my two dogs to the Monroe Carolina Thread Trail in the early mornings. We loved that the trails provided more of a challenge than the groomed trails at parks. You may find yourself climbing over a newly fallen tree or wading through some mud. As a plant lover, I found new plants to photograph or some wildlife to see with every visit. There are places where you can get close to the river, and if you like canoeing, use one of the launches. Following is a little history of the river and things to enjoy. The Rocky River is approximately 95 miles long and starts in Iredell County near Mooresville, flows into Cabarrus County and continues southeast, forming the borders between Stanley, Union and Anson Counties. It then empties into the Pee Dee River south of Norwood in Stanley County. Key tributaries are;
In June of 2017, the decision was made to dewater the man-made Reeves Lake in Chatham County by removing the Hoosier Dam. In addition to restoring the natural flow of the river, removal of the dam improved water quality, restored fish habitat and preserved and restored the woodlands along the riverbanks. Rocky River is now the longest undammed river in North Carolina. The Rocky River Blueway of the Carolina Thread Trail network is approximately 49 miles long. Access sites are in Midland, Norway, Oakboro and Wadesboro. Canoes and kayaks can be launched at some locations and paddlers can enjoy the sights and sounds that the Piedmont floodplain forest habitat has to offer. There are over 50 species of birds, calls of various frogs, over 10 species of butterflies and various trees including bitternut hickory, sourwood and swamp chestnut. A portion of the Rocky River Blueway is close to Little Meadow Creek, which was the site of America’s first gold rush. I have personally toured Reed’s Gold Mine in Cabarrus County and found it fun, interesting and educational. There are several greenways along tributaries and the Rocky River listed on the City of Concord’s website. They can be found here. Whether you are camping, biking, walking, fishing or canoeing, it is a great way to enjoy nature and teach children to conserve and protect wildlife and our natural resources. Taking part in creek clean-ups put on by NC Wildlife Federation Chapters such as Concord Wildlife Alliance and participating in events such as Cabarrus County Creek Week are also great ways to connect with nature and raise awareness of water quality and stewardship
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