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New River/Mount Jefferson Tour
New River/Mount Jefferson Tour
Submitted by Lee Davis of
Flow Mini
This "Best Drive" begins on Hwy. 18, North of Wilkesboro. Be sure to try "Old
421" to Wilkesboro. The first turn off Hwy. 18 is a left at the Laurel Springs
Post Office onto NC 88. After approximately 4 miles, you will see a historical
marker for Ore Knob Mine. Turn right onto Little Peak Creek Road and you can still
see the remains of the old mine on the left. The shafts of the old copper mine
are overgrown and fenced off since closing, but you can grab a glimpse of the
mound of earth still there.
Continue for about 3 miles to a bridge, then turn right onto Fulton Reeves Road,
where you'll parallel the New River. At times you might feel as if you should
be in a small boat as the road often blends with the riverbank. When the road
dead-ends, make a hard turn on to what resembles a pontoon bridge. Don't worry,
the bridge is safe and once you've crossed, you will continue to drive directly
beside the New River. Turn left onto US 221 for about a mile to a small bridge.
Turn right onto East Shatley Springs Road for about 2 miles, then right to NC
16 heading North.
Shatley Springs Inn will be on your left. The resort opened at the turn of this
century, and its "healing waters" are still bubbling and being carried away by
countless believers.
Return to NC 16 and head south about 4 miles to NC 88. You will soon see a huge
mountain on the left. Take bypass 221 around Jefferson's business area and signs
will point to Mount Jefferson State Park. The sprint to the summit recalls memories
of the Chimney Rock Hill Climb Races. Return to US 221 and turn right heading
to NC 16/88. When you cross the north fork of the New River, turn right onto NC
16. You will see a sign for Wagoner Road Access Area. It's a short 3 mile scenic
detour along the New River and well worth the drive if time allows. Continue on
NC 16 for another 6 miles to the historic Glendale Springs Inn and pick up "Old
Hwy. 16" back to Wilkesboro.
Allow 4-5 hours, depending on stops, for this tour. This is one of those drives
where the going is more important that the destination. It's a perfect "Sunday
afternoon drive" for enjoying some breathtaking landscapes, uncrowded backroads,
and your ultimate driving machine!
© 2007 Triad Z Club
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