Bear Creek (Rocky R. trib)

This is tributary emptying into the Rocky River below Woody Dam, between Pittsboro and Sanford.    Not to be confused with the much larger 'Bear Creek' in Moore County near Robbins, NC which runs into the Deep River.

As with any small narrow creek there is always the possibilty of bank to bank strainers, be aware especially if level is tending to be high. There are several slopes covered with mountain laurel and it almost feels a if one is much further west. Undisturbed remote feeling to whole run with one residence about midway. Beautiful farmhouse at takeout bridge which is a one lane crossing almost in front of the Woody Dam Hydro-electric facility but get permission before tramping across their backyard. Usually the paddler will choose to go on from here and join the Rocky downstream and either turn to paddle up to the dam base for lunch on the beautiful rocks on river left or follow the river on down to 15/501 highway takeout where there is plenty of parking on river right. A paddlers gage is beneath the 15/501 bridge. Steep takeout but worth it.