Things to do in the area this week (July 9 to July 16)

Hike to Russell Gold Mine

The Healthy Communities Hike destination for July is the Russell Gold Mine, part of the area’s rich history of gold mining. 

Until the California gold rush of 1849, North Carolina was the largest producer of gold in the US and Russell Gold Mine was one of the largest mines in the area. 

It is now a part of the Uwharrie National Forest in nearby Montgomery County. 

Date: Sunday, July 13.

Where: Meet at 1:30 at the Farmer’s Market in Downtown Asheboro, 134 S. Church Street, to car caravan to the site of the hike, north of the community of Eldorado. Or meet at the site at 2 p.m.

Length: About 2 miles total.

Degree of Difficulty: This is an easy hike for all ages to enjoy.

Dogs: Welcome but must remain on a leash at all times.

What to wear, bring: Wear comfort-able closed toe shoes, bring water and a walking stick if needed. Dress appropriately for a summer hike; long pants recommended. 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 hike is open to all who can hike this distance unaided.

Questions: Mary Joan Pugh at 336-963-2715 or maryjoan.pugh@randolph-countync.gov.

Market & Music returns Friday in Randleman

RANDLEMAN — Carolina Rhythm Machine will be the guest for Friday night’s Market & Music in Randleman’s downtown Commerce Square area.

This will be the third of four summertime events held at the square. The next one will be on Friday, Aug. 1, when Gipsy Danger will be on stage.

The event runs from 7 to 10 p.m. The event is free. Food trucks will be available. It is an outdoor event so bring your own chair.

Stepping into the Craft continues

SEAGROVE — Every Saturday in July, Seagrove potters welcome visitors for the monthly Stepping into the Craft event.

Each Saturday, potters and studios will have several options for visitors to see or take part in, including kiln openings, demonstrations and some hands-on experience in clay, all to give visitors a first-hand look into making pottery.

Some pottery studios may require a reservation to be included in the activities, so work directly with each site individually. There may be a fee with some activities. Otherwise, it’s free to visit any potter.

For more information, visit discoverseagrove.com/events.

Quiet Day at the NC Zoo

ASHEBORO — Need a quieter day to enjoy the North Carolina Zoo or just want to enjoy one? One Tuesday a month, the Zoo offers that opportunity, and the next one is Tuesday, July 15.

During Quiet Days, no large groups are scheduled, loud speaker music is turned off and even kits sensory bags are available to be checked out at the Guest Services Office or at Kidzone. Quiet kid play experiences are also open from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Kidzone.

Regular admission is charged.