The cliffs, towering 90 feet above the Neuse River, show
the magnificently chiseled results of the mighty force or erosion. The multicolored
cliff face reveals layers of sand, clay, seashells, shale, and gravel. The cliffs
were formed when a fault in the earth’s crust shifted millions of years ago. The
Neuse River followed this fault line cutting its course over time, through layers
of sediment deposited by shallow seas that once covered the coastal plain. A portion
of the Neuse took a bend against its bank and resulted in the erosion that eventually
carved the Cliffs of the Neuse.
Now a newly approved site on the
NC Birding Trail, this North Carolina State Park
offers hiking trails, paddling, picnicking, and river fishing. Organized group camping
(reservations required), seasonal family camping, and a seasonal swimming lake
are available for a modest fee. The museum is open daily from March 15th until November
30th and on weekends during the winter months. |
Goldsboro’s oldest and most popular park is in the center
of town on Park Avenue. The park was donated to the City in 1890 by Solomon and
Henry Weil in memory of their brother, Herman. The family also built a latticed
pavilion, or park house, which is one of the few nineteenth century park houses
surviving in the state.
In 1916, a bronze fountain sculpted by Danish artist Bertel
Thorwaldsen was added. The City raised approximately $50,000 in 2003 to replicate
the now named “Lady in the Park.” The original statue is housed in the Wayne County
Museum. Herman Park is open year-round until 11:00 pm.
Herman Park’s facilities
include 10 lighted tennis courts, three picnic shelters,
the historic park house and fountain, a gazebo, a goldfish pond,
a children’s playground
and a miniature train. Operated by the Goldsboro Kiwanis Club, the miniature train
celebrated its 50th year of operation in 2005. Visitors can enjoy a train ride on
weekends from 1 - 5 p.m., April - September. Herman Park is open year-round until
11:00 pm. |