Welcome back to another installment of “Alamance Awaits,” an exploration of some of the beautiful outdoor spaces offered throughout Alamance County, made possible by Alamance Parks. I’m Ali Evans, and in addition to being a member of the 97.9 The Hill & Chapelboro.com team, I’m also a resident of Alamance County, and I’m having the best time exploring all the wonderful spaces!

This month we’re visiting Swepsonville River Park, off of Boywood Road in Swepsonville. Before I tell you all about this lovely little park, there’s an important Alamance Awaits update — Cameron and I have a new hiking buddy! Meet Macaroni, the 3-year-old Jack Russel Terrier mix my husband and I recently adopted from Orange County Animal Services. He’s a delightful little guy and he has brought us so much joy.

Now that introductions are out of the way, let’s chat about the Swepsonville River Park. Don’t tell the other trails and parks I’ve covered, but this place is my favorite so far. It’s probably because it’s the shortest yet, at two miles ‘down and back’ but it’s also right next to the water, offers plenty of shade, and next time I go, I’m bringing my lunch and swimming in the Haw River. (Mom, if you’re reading this, I promise I’ll wait 30 minutes after lunch before I swim.)

There are two spots to enter the trail on the River Park, both off Boywood Road. If you park at the Upper Access, follow the trail to the right. If you park at the Lower Access, follow the trail to the left. If you get that mixed up, you’ll find the trail ends somewhat abruptly and it’s hard to explain that to your dog. If you’re going for a hike & a swim I recommend parking at the Lower access, walking down and back (this trail is a straight line, not a circle.) and then enjoying a swim in the park area. If you need to stop halfway, there are several really nice spots along the way to do so. When you walk under the bridge, it’s almost time to turn around.

I don’t know if you’re aware, but it’s really hot outside. Unfortunately, those pesky rumors about sunshine and fresh air improving your mood and releasing endorphins are all true, so we still have to get outside. Swepsonville River Park offers all the things you love about the outdoors with a bunch of shady spots, safe places to dip your toes in the water, and a flat, easy trail to enjoy.

A few additional highlights I discovered on our hike:

  • In addition to the serotonin boost, this place is very instagrammable. You will want to snap a few pictures to make your social media circle jealous.
  • There are plenty of benches to sit and enjoy the view, read a book, or just relax and enjoy the moment.
  • You can fish at Swepsonville River Park! We stumbled upon a few people fishing under the bridge. (Dad, if you’re reading this, no, I don’t know if they caught anything.)

As I said earlier, I can’t put my finger on why, but this is my favorite stop in Alamance so far. A quick and easy hike await you, so I hope you find time to go visit Swepsonville River Park!

You can learn more about the people, places and events at Alamance Parks by visiting their website, or by following along on their Instagram. The pups and I will see you next month for another stop on our journey through Alamance Parks!

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