Photo by Julie JarvisOcconeechee Mountain State Natural Area is located in Hillsborough, NC.  With 190 acres of land and nearly three miles of trails, visitors can enjoy hiking and lovely scenic views overlooking the historic town and the Eno River.  Occoneechee Mountain also is home to a unique habitat that researchers believe has remained relatively unchanged since the last Ice Age evidenced by the presence of brown elfin, a rare butterfly, as well as several unique plant species.

At its peak, Occoneechee Mountain is the highest point in Orange County, NC at 867 feet and is believed to be the highest point in the state between Hillsborough and the coast.  The mountain is also home to an abandoned pyrophyllite quarry that offers a nice view from the top.

The park has hiking trails, restroom facility (no running water), picnic tables, and ponds/Eno River access for fishing (North Carolina fishing license is required for people age 16 and over).

Link to a hiking trail map of Occoneechee Mountain:  http://www.ncparks.gov/Visit/parks/ocmo/pics/parkmap.pdf

Photo by Julie JarvisPhoto by Julie JarvisPhoto by Julie Jarvis

Directions: 

Take I-85 to exit 164. Coming from Durham turn right/from Greensboro turn left at the bottom of the ramp, traveling north on Churton Street. At the first light left onto Mayo Street. At the next stop sign, turn left onto Orange Grove Road. Turn at the second right on to Virginia Cates Road, and follow the signs to the parking area.