Crystal Cockman with the land Trust for Central North Carolina led this short hike along the former Uwharrie Trail. Leaving from the USFS parking area on Flint Hill Road, we took a short .3 mile road walk to access an old two track alongside Poison Branch. About 10 minutes into the woods, there is a side trail leading to a solitary grave.
We continued following Poison Branch, but on the opposite side, before heading up and away from the creek, finally making the short climb up Little long Mountain.
The top of the mountain affords the only 360 degree view in the Uwharrie National Forest. The top is covered with broom sedge, salt bush and sumac. It appears the view will be mostly gone within a year as the vegetation heightens.
It is unclear if this trail will become a continuation of the Uwharrie Trail. The current status of the land Little Long Mountain resides on is owned by the land trust with owner financing. The owner has retained hunting privileges for an unspecified period. It may be the best interest of the land trust to continue this arrangement as hunting clubs maintain a property and keep vehicles out. With limited resources, the land trust may not be able to adequately manage that responsibility. So I can't envision a viable hiking trail until year round access is available. The potential for confrontations is too great with the two interests.
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