While the newest addition to the trail system at Hanging Rock State Park isn’t a long trail (1.3 miles), it does add an entirely new river experience for hikers. Branching off of the Indian Creek Trail, just a few hundred feet from the park’s Dan River access, the trail makes a loop that features about a half-mile stretch along the river. (Turn right and you’ll be at the Dan in less than five minutes.) The river section is especially scenic because of the rock bluffs that are visible on the opposite shore. It’s a rugged and picturesque area. Near the end of the trail’s river section, a rapids runs just beneath the cliffs. Take the side-trail here down to a sizable beach for a closer look at the rockface, the rapids and the colorful river rocks. This is a great spot for a picnic.
–Mark Caskie
lineofcedars 