New hiking trails open scenic views by Eno River
Nature lovers have a new spot to appreciate the beauty of the Triangle. On Thursday, the Eno River Association opened the Panther Branch Natural Area, which includes 56 acres and over 2 miles of hiking trails.
The area is located in unincorporated Efland, just off Lebanon Road.
"You don't have to drive to the mountains to do it. It's right here in our backyard," said Peter Schubert, a geologist, naturalist, volunteer and former Board Member of the Eno River Association.
In every flower, plant, or butterfly identified, you can feel his excitement about nature in the Triangle.
"It's actually got a yellow flower that came up about a month ago," he said. "They kind of look like grass when they come up."
Schubert says peaceful spaces outdoors are needed now more than ever.
"You can get engaged at any level," he said. "Whether it's listening to the birds, looking at the wildflowers, or it's just taking a walk and taking in the beautiful scenery and seeing the river flowing."
Stewardship Associate Tom Davis has volunteered with the association for about four years, creating the trails foot-by-foot.
"It was a lot of fun, and it was really gratifying to be able to work with so many people that volunteered their time and effort, because it was a lot of work," said Davis.
After hundreds of hours of work, he's ready for the public to enjoy the beauty.
"The overlook of the Eno River is fabulous, and Panther Branch is really nice as well," he said.
The association obtained grants from Orange County, the City of Raleigh Watershed Protection Program, and the North Carolina Land & Water Fund.
Executive Director Will Summer emphasized the importance of the Eno River for all Triangle residents.
"It protects and provides drinking water for those of us living downstream, including those of us who are up from Raleigh," said Summer.
It took about $60,000 to get this site ready for the public. Dominion Energy, the Duke Doing Good Community Fund, Mountain Dew, and private donors made all of this possible. If you'd like to visit the trails, their website has more information.
