The mission of the William Nealy Memorial Haw River Trail is to develop a 110 mile land and water-based trail from the headwaters of the Haw River, west of Greensboro, to its confluence with the Deep River, south of Jordan Lake. The establishment of this trail will protect natural habitat and water quality in the Haw River watershed. In doing so, residents of the Triad and Triangle will come to view this valuable resource as a key ecotourism destination in their own backyard, and join in the effort to protect this precious wildspace so close to home.

The Haw River stretches from Forsyth County to Jordan Lake, through the most part of North Carolina. It is the main watercourse of the Central Piedmont. Islands in the river add interest, and it is home to a diversity of wildlife and plant communities. Formerly the power source for textile mills, its course is now mostly through countryside. But the open spaces are filling up as the area develops. To protect the river and its banks from sprawl, the Haw River Trail formed in 1996, and the Trail officially opened in 2000. Currently 40 miles long, when completed it will stretch 110 miles.

We work closely with local state, and national government, businesses and landowners. Private and corporate landowners have granted land and easements. Area businesses donate time and equipment. Municipalities provide public access sites and staff support. The Haw River Trail benefits everybody, and everybody can help.

Thank you for enjoying our natural resources responsibly, and helping us to make the Haw River Trail better for everyone.