West Point on the Eno

West Point on the Eno is a 404-acre natural and historic park located along a 2-mile stretch of the scenic Eno River, approximately 6 miles north of downtown Durham, North Carolina. The park offers visitors a blend of natural beauty and historical significance.

The area has a rich history dating back to the Eno Indians, who used the land for fishing, hunting, and growing crops. In the 1750s, European settlers arrived and began building mills along the river. The West Point Mill, a reconstructed grist mill from the late 18th century, stands as a testament to this era and now serves as a museum where visitors can watch milling demonstrations.

The park features several historic structures that have been preserved. These include the McCown-Mangum House, an 1850s farmhouse, and the Hugh Mangum Museum of Photography, housed in a restored tobacco packhouse. The museum displays photographs and equipment from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

West Point on the Eno offers approximately 5 miles of hiking trails that wind through rocky terrain, showcasing granite bluffs often covered with mountain laurel, rhododendron, and partridgeberry. The trails provide opportunities for visitors to explore the diverse flora and fauna of the area.

The Eno River, which runs through the park, is popular for recreational activities such as fishing and paddling. The river is home to various fish species, including catfish, bream, crappie, chain pickerel, and largemouth bass. It's also one of only two rivers in North Carolina where the rare Red-eye or Roanoke bass can be found.

The park is open daily from 8 a.m. until dusk, providing ample time for visitors to enjoy its natural and historical offerings. While it serves as a recreational space, West Point on the Eno also plays a crucial role in preserving the area's cultural heritage and natural environment.