Hike at Eno River Confluence

• Date Hiked: April 12, 2020
• Posted length: Two Forks Trail: 2.25 Miles. Access via Shepperd Mill Trail (0.5 miles)
• Total miles Tracked: 3 miles
• Type of Trail: Single track trail
• Conveniences: Shelter and pit toilet, plenty of parking
• Best Features: Close to home, by the river
• Worst Features: No water 
• Wildlife spotted: None this trip
• Vegetation: Every wildflower imaginable
• Associated Website: http://www.enoriver.org/confluence-natural-area-now-open/
• Primary Author: Cheryl

We love the Eno River.  It has provided the backdrop for many miles of hiking and kayaking.  We have explored the Eno within the state parks, by the Riverwalk, and via access points at boat ramps.  We love the river so much, we named our cat Eno (and this was before the emu came to town!)  

This spring, we finally took the opportunity to head north of town and hike along the dual shores of the river - at the Eno Confluence Natural Area.  Nestled between the East and West forks of the River, the preserve has 200+ acres to explore.

We left the parking lot and headed to Shepperd Mill Trail, an easy 0.5 mile loop that leads to the Two Forks Trail.  As we began our walk, we encountered some old farm equipment, left to be reclaimed by growth.  

The single track of the Two Forks Trail meanders over ridges and by the banks.  There are some steep inclines along the way, but the views are worth it.  

I love the visual of a dirt path through the woods that lead you around the next bend.  The trail winds through many types of vegetation.  And we were hiking in the midst of a wildflower explosion! Everywhere we looked, there was something else in bloom. 

One of the great features is that you are completely immersed in nature.  No traffic could be heard during our walk.  Just the sound of the Eno bubbling over rocks and trees.

And the wind slipping through the leaves as we waited for the coming storm that evening.

Fiddle-head ferns are always a favorite of mine.  

May Apples

May Apple bloom

As we left Two Forks Trail, we headed to the meadow.  I imagine you could see a bunch of stars from here on a clear night.  Unfortunately, the Confluence closes after dusk.

More farm equipment is featured by the pavilion

Eno the Cat

Eno the River