Haywood County Recreation & Parks

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Haywood County Recreation & Parks Haywood County Recreation & Parks offers programs and activities for a broad range of interests.

🍂🚲 SEASONAL PARK & BIKE PARK HOURS UPDATE 🌲⏰As we "fall back" and Daylight Saving Time comes to an end this weekend (Sun...
10/28/2026

🍂🚲 SEASONAL PARK & BIKE PARK HOURS UPDATE 🌲⏰

As we "fall back" and Daylight Saving Time comes to an end this weekend (Sunday, November 1st), Haywood County Recreation & Parks will be shifting our operating hours for the Raccoon Creek Bike Park and Allens Creek Park.

Starting this Sunday, both parks will close at dusk for the safety of our riders and visitors.

We know how much everyone loves getting out on the bike park and trails, and we will still be fully open during the day on weekends! However, with early evening darkness rolling in, closing at sundown ensures everyone stays safe on the pump track and pathways.

Thank you for your understanding and continued support—get those weekend rides in, and we'll see you out at the park! 🚵‍♂️🍁

🎣🍁 CAST INTO AUTUMN: EVENING FLY-FISHING THIS WEDNESDAY! 🌊✨Looking to pick up a new outdoor hobby or refine your techniq...
10/26/2026

🎣🍁 CAST INTO AUTUMN: EVENING FLY-FISHING THIS WEDNESDAY! 🌊✨

Looking to pick up a new outdoor hobby or refine your technique on the water? Join experienced angler Ben this Wednesday, October 28th from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM for an immersive late-afternoon fly-fishing clinic along the rushing waters of the West Fork of the Pigeon River!

Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to sharpen your skills, this hands-on workshop set against crisp autumn air and vibrant fall foliage will give you the confidence you need on the water. 🍂

✨ WHAT YOU'LL COVER:
• 🧵 Casting & Line Control: Essential casting mechanics and line management.
• 🪢 Knot Tying & Tackle: Learn how to tie essential knots and select the right flies.
• 🌊 Reading Mountain Currents: Master streamcraft to target local trout in rushing mountain rivers.

🎣 EQUIPMENT: All essential fishing tackle, flies, and gear will be provided!

👟 WHAT TO BRING: River-appropriate footwear and a valid North Carolina fishing license.

⚠️ Registration closes soon! Reserve your spot on the river today! 👇

🔗 Sign up online: https://haywoodrecreation.short.gy/fly-fishing

🍁 FINISH OCTOBER OUTDOORS WITH US! 🎣🦅October is winding down, but we still have an incredible lineup of outdoor adventur...
10/22/2026

🍁 FINISH OCTOBER OUTDOORS WITH US! 🎣🦅

October is winding down, but we still have an incredible lineup of outdoor adventures to round out the season in Haywood County! Whether you want to cast a fly line, spot migratory birds along the lake, or take a spooky night hike, there’s still time to register!

🔥 SPECIAL PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS:
🎣 Cast into Autumn: Evening Fly-Fishing
📅 Wednesday, Oct 28 | 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Spend a crisp autumn evening on the water learning casting techniques, fly selection, and stream reading with our expert angler instruction. Perfect for both beginners looking to get started and intermediate anglers refining their skills!

🦅 Autumn Wingbeats: Lake Junaluska Migratory Bird Walk
📅 Friday, Oct 30 | 8:30 AM – 11:00 AM
Join expert ornithologist Howard for a morning stroll along the flat, paved shoreline of Lake Junaluska! We'll spot traveling waterfowl and migratory songbirds pausing in our mountain valley on their journey south.

🗓️ ALSO HAPPENING THIS WEEK & NEXT:

• 🎃 Spooky Night Hike (Dahlia Ridge): Sunday, Oct 25 | 6:30 PM – A gentle 2-mile nocturnal trek with night vision, wayfinding, hot cocoa, and mountain stories! (Strictly limited to 10 spots).

• 🥾 Waterfall Wander (Cherry Cove to Skinny Dip Falls): Wednesday, Oct 28 | 9:00 AM – A stunning morning mountain hike along scenic fall trails!

Spots fill up quickly as registration deadlines approach—grab your gear and lock in your spot today! 👇

🔗 Fly Fishing: https://haywoodrecreation.short.gy/fly-fishing
🔗 Birding: https://haywoodrecreation.short.gy/birding
🔗 Hiking: https://haywoodrecreation.short.gy/Hiking

State Finals are in full swing! While our golf and pickleball athletes are still out there competing hard, we couldn't w...
10/19/2026

State Finals are in full swing! While our golf and pickleball athletes are still out there competing hard, we couldn't wait to share the incredible results from our swimming, track & field, throwing, billiards, bowling, and running participants!

Let’s give a massive round of applause to our phenomenal Haywood County athletes who competed at the State Finals! You represented our community with incredible talent, determination, and sportsmanship, bringing home top finishes across swimming, track & field, throwing events, disc golf, bowling, billiards, and more! 🏊‍♂️🏃‍♀️🎳

We are so proud of every single one of you for showing us that dedication and an active lifestyle have no age limit. Thank you for making Haywood County shine on the state stage!

✨ Shoutout to our incredible participants & medalists:

• Michelle Allen: 3rd Place – 400 Meter Dash 🏃‍♀️

• Fred Baker: Multiple State Champion! 1st Place in 100 IM & 200 IM, plus 3rd Place in 50 Freestyle 🥇🏊‍♂️

• David Bishop: Dominant in the pool! 1st Place sweeps in 50 Free, 100 Free, 50 Back, 100 Back, 50 Butterfly, and 100 IM 🥇🏊‍♂️

• Rich Gibson: Strong finishes across 6 events, including 2nd Place in 100 Butterfly! 🥈🦋

• Meagan Karvonen: 2nd Place in Discus Throw & top finishes in Shot Put 🥈🥏

• Dan Linker: Double State Champion! 1st Place in both Discus Throw and Shot Put 🥇💪

• Tim Mead: Fantastic showing in the 800 Meter Run! 🏃‍♂️

• Gerald Meyer: State Champion in 200 Breaststroke, plus multiple 2nd and 3rd place finishes in the pool! 🥇🏊‍♂️

• Michael Rowe: Hard-fought performances across 5 swimming events! 🏊‍♂️

• Tom Sheehan: Representing strong in Disc Golf! 🥏

• Herbie Singerman: State Champion in Billiards & strong bowling performance! 🥇🎱🎳

• Robert Tierney: State Champion with an incredible 1st Place finish in the 5K Run! 🥇🏃‍♂️

• Bob Williamson: Golden swims! 1st Place finishes in 100 IM, 50 Breaststroke, and 100 Backstroke, plus 2nd in 50 Back! 🥇🏊‍♂️

• Deb Wilson: Stellar endurance swims, taking home 2nd Place finishes in the 200 Backstroke and 500 Freestyle! 🥈🏊‍♀️

⛳🏓 Stay tuned—golf and pickleball results are coming after the games wrap up on October 28th! Good luck to all our athletes still in action!

Drop some congratulatory emojis in the comments for our inspiring athletes! 👇💙

🥾🌲 BE PREPARED FOR THE UNEXPECTED: HIKER SURVIVAL CLINIC THIS THURSDAY! 🔥🗺️Would you know what to do if you got turned a...
10/13/2026

🥾🌲 BE PREPARED FOR THE UNEXPECTED: HIKER SURVIVAL CLINIC THIS THURSDAY! 🔥🗺️

Would you know what to do if you got turned around on the trail or stuck out in the backcountry after dark?

Join Search and Rescue Trainer Steve Kuni this Thursday at the Dahlia Ridge Trail System for a comprehensive, full-day immersive wilderness survival clinic! Whether you're a seasoned backpacker or a casual day hiker, this hands-on workshop will give you the confidence and skills to handle unexpected emergencies.

📅 When: This Thursday, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
📍 Where: Dahlia Ridge Trail System

🛠️ WHAT YOU'LL LEARN:
• Emergency Shelters: Build effective shelters using natural forest materials and tarps.
• Firecraft: Master fire-starting techniques even in damp autumn conditions.
• Signaling & Rescue: Learn how to effectively signal for help.
• Survival Priorities: Water sourcing, cold-weather exposure management, emergency prioritization, and essential gear you should always carry.

🎒 What to Bring: A packed lunch, plenty of water, appropriate outdoor clothing layers, and sturdy footwear for practical scenario practice!

Spots are limited for this hands-on field workshop—secure your spot today so you can hike with confidence! 👇

🔗 Register now: https://haywoodrecreation.short.gy/hikersurvival

🏀 STILL LOOKING FOR A BASKETBALL LEAGUE FOR YOUR CHILD? WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED! 🏀With other local registration deadlines ...
10/09/2026

🏀 STILL LOOKING FOR A BASKETBALL LEAGUE FOR YOUR CHILD? WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED! 🏀

With other local registration deadlines closing, don't worry if you missed out—Haywood County Recreation’s Youth Basketball Recreation League registration is OPEN NOW!

Our program is all about fundamentals, sportsmanship, and building confidence on the court. Best of all? We guarantee equal playing time for EVERY player—no tryouts required! Every child plays in every game!

Quick League Info:
🧒 Ages 5 to 14 (Divisions: 5–6, 7–8, 9–10, 11–12, 13–14)
💵 $40 per player (includes team jersey)
🏀 Practices begin the week of Nov 9th
⛹️ Games starting Dec 4/5 (5–6 age group plays Friday nights; 7–14 plays Saturdays)
🔒 Registration Closes: October 30th at 5 PM

🌟We also work hard to accommodate family schedules and practice night preferences!

CALL FOR COACHES: Passionate about youth sports? We’re looking for volunteer head and assistant coaches! Head coaches get FREE registration for their player!

Secure your spot today before spaces fill up!
👉 Register here: https://haywoodrecreation.short.gy/YouthBasketball

🦅 AUTUMN BIRDING AT LAKE JUNALUSKA THIS FRIDAY! 🍂🌊Experience the magic of fall migration right along the water! Join our...
10/06/2026

🦅 AUTUMN BIRDING AT LAKE JUNALUSKA THIS FRIDAY! 🍂🌊

Experience the magic of fall migration right along the water! Join our expert birding guides this Friday, October 9th at 8:30 AM for a peaceful morning walk along the shorelines of Lake Junaluska.

Mid-October is prime time for spotting traveling waterfowl and active migratory warblers pausing in our mountain valley on their journey south! 🦆✨

✨ WHAT TO EXPECT:
• A gentle, accessible stroll along flat, paved pathways—perfect for all experience levels!
• Hands-on guidance identifying subtle fall plumage, flight calls, and resident lake wildlife.
• A rewarding morning in nature whether you're building your birding life list or just starting out.

🎒 WHAT TO BRING: Your favorite pair of binoculars and warm layers for those crisp lakeside breezes! ☕🧥

Spots are limited to ensure a great guided experience for everyone—lock in your spot today! 👇

🔗 Register now: https://haywoodrecreation.short.gy/birding

10/02/2026

🚨 THIS WEEKEND! STEP ONTO THE TRAIL FOR THE HAYWOOD HIKE-A-THON! 🥾🌲✨

The Haywood Hike-A-Thon Challenge 2026 is happening THIS WEEKEND (October 3–4), and it’s time to lock in your registration!

Whether you’re taking a casual autumn stroll, tackling a big mountain loop, or joining one of the guided hikes provided by Haywood County Rec & Parks, every single mile supports local forest protection, clean energy, and waste reduction right here in Haywood County!

🎒 REASONS TO JOIN THE CHALLENGE:
• 🏅 Commemorative Event Patch: Earn an official 2026 patch when you complete your hike and turn in pledges!
• 🏆 Awesome Prizes: Compete for Most Miles, Youngest/Oldest Hiker, Biggest Team, Top Fundraisers, and Most Creative Attire!
• 🧭 Guided Hikes Available: Group options for all skill levels led by our Rec & Parks team!
• 🍻 Sunday Closing Party: Celebrate your miles with us at Frog Level Brewing on Oct 4 at 4:30 PM!
Grab a buddy, form a team, and help us break the record for the most hikers on Haywood trails in a single weekend! ⛰️💚

👇 Register and set up your fundraising page today:
🔗 https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/peer-to-peer/eac-hike-a-thon--2026

📬 THE OCTOBER NEWSLETTER HAS ARRIVED! 🍂☕Did you check your inbox this morning? Our October Newsletter is out, packed wit...
09/30/2026

📬 THE OCTOBER NEWSLETTER HAS ARRIVED! 🍂☕

Did you check your inbox this morning? Our October Newsletter is out, packed with everything happening across Haywood County Recreation & Parks this month!

Here’s a sneak peek of what’s inside:
• 🏀 Youth Basketball Registration: Opens TOMORROW, Oct 1st at 8:00 AM! (Coaches' kids play free!)
• 🥾 EAC Hike-A-Thon Challenge (Oct 3–4): Final days to sign up, raise pledges, and earn a 2026 event patch!
• 🍁 Guided Fall Hikes & Outdoor Workshops: Peak foliage treks, survival skills, land navigation, fly-fishing, and birding clinics!

Didn't get the email? Don't worry—you can read the full newsletter online and subscribe so you never miss an update! 👇🔗

Read the October Newsletter & Subscribe: https://mailchi.mp/haywoodcountync/haywood-county-recreation-parks-september-newsletter-18006008

🍂 OCTOBER PROGRAMMING IS LIVE! GET OUTDOORS WITH US THIS FALL! 🌲✨Fall is officially here, and our October programs are n...
09/23/2026

🍂 OCTOBER PROGRAMMING IS LIVE! GET OUTDOORS WITH US THIS FALL! 🌲✨

Fall is officially here, and our October programs are now posted on the website! From scenic autumn trail treks to hands-on skill workshops and winter sports registration, we’ve got something for everyone in Haywood County this month.

🎒 WHAT’S ON THE CALENDAR FOR OCTOBER:

• 🏀 Youth Basketball Registration (Oct 1–30): Registration for our biggest youth sport of the year opens Oct 1st at 8:00 AM!
• 🥾 EAC Haywood Hike-A-Thon Challenge (Oct 3–4): Hit the trails for a great cause—featuring guided group hikes led by our Rec & Parks team!
• ⛰️ Guided Fall Hikes: Take in peak fall colors on scenic routes like Devil’s Courthouse and Strawberry Gap!
• 🛠️ Outdoor Skills Workshops: Build confidence in the woods with specialized survival and knot-tying courses at Allens Creek Park.
• 🦅 Birding & Fly-Fishing Clinics: Enjoy crisp autumn mornings along Lake Junaluska and local mountain streams in the evenings.

Spots for our guided outings and workshops fill up quickly, so don't wait to lock in your plans for October!

👇 Browse the full calendar and sign up today:

🔗 https://haywoodrecreation.short.gy/Catalog

📸:

Address

258 Armory Drive
Clyde, NC
28721

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 5pm
Tuesday 8am - 5pm
Wednesday 8am - 5pm
Thursday 8am - 5pm
Friday 8am - 5pm

Telephone

(828) 452-6789

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