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Midland
Pan for gold, pick strawberries and enjoy the great outdoors along the Rocky River in this one-of-a-kind small town.
Midland is the place to head when you’re looking for some adventure — or some fascinating history. Here’s what you can’t miss when you visit.
Reed Gold Mine
The first documented discovery of gold in the United States happened right here in Cabarrus County. In 1799, 12-year-old Conrad Reed discovered a 17-pound gold nugget in Little Meadow Creek. The Reed family used it as a doorstop for years before Conrad’s father sold it for $3.50 to a jeweler in Fayetteville. The discovery and sale marked the start of the nation’s first gold rush, and North Carolina led the nation in gold production until 1848, just before California’s gold rush.
These days, Reed Gold Mine State Historic Site is the only underground gold mine in North Carolina that’s open to the public. Guided tours give guests the opportunity to explore restored portions of underground tunnels and view exhibits of gold and historic mining equipment. You can try your luck panning for gold and Reed Gold Mine also offers walking trails and underground tunnels to explore.
Outdoor Activities
Midland boasts a wealth of outdoor fun thanks to its prime location along the sparkling waters of the Rocky River Blueway. Perfect for long-distance flat-water kayaking, canoeing and stand up paddle boarding, the blueway begins at Pharr Family Preserve Trail, meanders down to Midland’s Riverbend Farm Trail, and continues for about 49 miles. Along with these connecting trail segments, the Rocky River Blueway is part of the Carolina Thread Trail, a regional network that offers hiking trails, bike paths and places to observe wildlife. So, if you prefer land over water, there’s plenty of terrain to cover.
At nearby Rob Wallace Park, you’ll find 143 acres to roam complete with a boardwalk, fishing pond, biking trails, a playground and picnic areas. It’s the perfect place to bring a meal to share before you enjoy the activities.
Family Fun on the Farm
If you’re visiting in the spring, you’re in luck: Picking your own strawberries at Deer Run Farm is a sweet seasonal event that’s not to be missed. And no matter what time of year, you can always visit Midland Farms to pick up specialty farm-fresh products, including its very own goat’s milk soap and beeswax lotion bars.
Stay a While
Make your trip to Midland — and to the rest of Cabarrus County — a vacation worth remembering. Our guide to places to stay gives you everything you need to know to make it a special memory.
There’s More
Exciting experiences are waiting for you in each of Cabarrus County’s five communities.
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