The Birkhead Mountains Wilderness is found at the northern tip of NC’s Uwharrie National Forest. Today’s exploration from the Thornburg trailhead included a 3.4-mile easy to moderate, although a little muddy, hike. The tract also includes what the kiosk eloquently describes as “an excellent example of the evolution of a vernacular farmhouse and outbuildings.”
The temperature reluctantly climbed into the mid-50s today, warm enough to be comfortable moving along, even in the wind. I enjoyed plenty of friendly human and canine company along the way. The most interesting section of the trail looks down a steep hillside with lots of ferns to the stream below.
The Forest Service has preserved the farmhouse unfurnished and in need of some repairs, for visitors to explore. My favorite discoveries were the flowered linoleum patterns in the upstairs hall and bedrooms, as well as little handmade touches like hooks carved from tree branches.
Laurie Apgar Chandler 