There is a place along the West Fork of the Eno River where the landscape gently invites you to slow down. The trail begins at the edge of an open field where native grasses sway in the breeze, wildflowers brighten the path, and sunlight spills across the meadow. Just ahead, the forest rises in quiet contrast – cool, shaded, and alive with birdsong.
This is the Rocky Water Path, a winding trail within the Confluence Natural Area, stewarded by the Eno River Association. Now, thanks to a collaborative partnership between the Association of Nature & Forest Therapy (ANFT), the Eno River Association, and Forest Therapy Guide and Consultant Aimee Vandemark, this beloved path has been recognized as a Certified Forest Therapy Trail.
For the Eno River Association, the designation affirms something many visitors have long felt – that this stretch of land offers a special opportunity for rest, reflection, and connection with nature.
The idea for certification began when Aimee, a longtime supporter of the organization, recognized the trail’s potential. “We were fortunate to have Aimee propose developing our existing Rocky Water Path into a certified forest therapy trail,” says Hillary Harrison of the Eno River Association. “She could see the potential immediately. It’s a lovely walk with many natural opportunities to slow down, notice the surroundings, and practice mindfulness.” What surprised the team most was how little needed to change. “The most surprising thing,” Hillary explains, “was how the trail already had so many of the elements needed for certification. It was essentially a perfect candidate.”
For Aimee, the journey toward certification began during her participation in the North Carolina Master Naturalist program, where participants complete a final “impact project” for the community. “I immediately thought about the impact a certified forest therapy trail could have in our area,” Aimee says. “We are incredibly fortunate to have many wonderful trails, but partnering with the Eno River Association felt like the ideal opportunity.” As the idea developed, Aimee decided to pursue certification as a Trails Consultant through ANFT along with the Master Naturalist certification- “Two certifications leading to one amazing project,” she says.
“The preserve provides respite for so many people,” Hillary says. “It’s well loved and frequently visited. Many community members come here as part of their daily or weekly routine.” The Rocky Water Path offers a short and accessible route into the forest – an invitation to pause beside the river and listen. Along the way, visitors encounter not only natural beauty but also the layered history of the landscape. Historic structures and interpretive elements tell stories of how people have interacted with this land over time.
Expanding Access to Nature’s Benefits
The Eno River Association already incorporates the Rocky Water Path into its guided hike series each spring and fall, and the forest therapy designation opens the door to new programming. A guided forest therapy walk led by Aimee is planned for April 2026, offering participants the opportunity to experience the trail through a practice of sensory awareness and mindful connection.
Looking ahead, the Eno River Association is also pursuing a major accessibility initiative. “We’re currently working on an ambitious plan to develop the Rocky Water Path into a Universally Accessible Trail,” Hillary says. “This will allow even more people to experience the benefits of forest therapy here.”
