Start new year with Jan. 1 hike to Faith Rock over new Bush Creek bridge

ASHEBORO — Again this year, the public is invited to a First Day Out hike to begin the new year on the right foot.

On Thursday, Jan. 1, all are invited to celebrate the arrival of 2026 by participating in the Fourth Annual First Day Outdoors Hike. This year the target is the Franklinville Rail Trail section of the Deep River State Trail.

It’s a combination of two trails linked by a new bridge, the recently completed Bush Creek Bridge on the Franklinville to Sapona Rail Trail section and Faith Rock Trail.

Hikers can meet up at West Riverside Park (Faith Rock) at 1306 Andrew Hunter Rd., Franklinville.

The hike will begin at 2 p.m.

The hike length is approximately 1 mile round trip to the Bush Creek Bridge and .75 mile on the Faith Rock Trail.

The trail to Bush Creek Bridge is flat but unfinished so the path is like an old road with some gravel, roots and ruts. So not difficult, but be careful.

The continuing hike on the Faith Rock Trail is steep and rocky in places.

Dogs are welcome but must remain on a leash at all times.

Dress appropriately for the weather, and wear comfortable closed toe shoes. If it is raining at the time of the hike, it will be canceled. 

There is no cost to participate, and no pre-registration is needed. This event is open to all who can hike this distance unaided.

Questions? Contact Mary Joan Pugh at maryjoan.pugh@randolphcountync.gov or 336-963-2715.

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