news-record.com

ALTAMAHAW (MCT) — Canoeists and kayakers now have yet another spot to access the Haw River.

The Altamahaw Paddle Access, just off N.C. 87 north of Altamahaw-Ossipee Elementary School, opened recently.

Accessible only at elevated water levels, the county's northernmost public paddle access is open every day from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and features areas for picnics and fishing. The Altamahaw site is "one of the most beautiful on the entire river," says Haw River Trail Coordinator Brian Baker.

The county is leasing the spot from Glen Raven Inc. and developed the property with help from the state Department of Transportation and the city of Burlington. Securing the site came through the efforts of the Haw River Trail Partnership, a consortium that includes Alamance County and nine other governments, Baker said.

The partners have conserved more than 1,250 acres and increased the access points from three to eight along the Haw since signing a memorandum of understanding in 2006, and added about 18 miles to the Haw River Trail. Alcohol, firearms, swimming, unleashed pets, and signs are among the items and activities prohibited at the Altamahaw site.