Canoe access is only usable during the months of high lake water in the summer. It does require a 100-yard carry to get to the water at that level. There is a cable that will allow the canoe or kayak to be slid instead of carried down to the water that was installed as an eagle scout project. However, the access is limited to the lake being at almost full capacity due to the shallow nature of the cove.
About
Officially opened on June 16th 2001, the Eagle Point Nature Preserve includes 100 acres of deeded land and approximately 100 acres of land on long-term lease from Yadkin Power Generating Incorporated, a division of the Aluminum Company of America. Donated to the citizens of Rowan County by the Land Trust for Central North Carolina, the property was originally purchased with money donated by local Foundations and individuals. The Land Trust administers a conservation easement over the property to insure the perpetual high care given to the natural quality of the property.
Wildlife
The Preserve provides a natural habitat for fauna and flora native to the area including:
Bald eagles who use the waters, especially in Goldeneye Cove, as fishing grounds
Barred owls
Egrets
Great Blue Herons
Kingfishers
Raccoons
White-tailed deer
Wild turkey
Features
The property consists of a variety of forest types that are typical to central North Carolina. Over three miles of trails including observation overlooks will eventually allow the visitor to enjoy the entire 200 acres and its natural features. Currently, a little over three miles of trails including a self-interpretive tree and plant identification loop, canoe access to High Rock Lake, and an additional hiking trail leading to beautiful isolated coves are open to the hiker and nature lover. The trail is adequate for biking with fat-tired bikes. No horses are allowed.
The trail system was designed as three back-to-back loops because it is not difficult to get turned around here. The trails total over 3 miles of walking. The Plant Loop Trail is just under one mile, and the Goldeneye Cove Trail just over 1.5 miles. Eagle Point Loop is about 2 miles. Old home-sites, views of the lake, and solitude are what visitors can expect.
Track Trail
Eagle Point Nature Preserve is home to Rowan County's only Track Trail.
