From the intersection of US 64 & NC 49 in Asheboro, follow NC 49 along the geologic area known as the Carolina slate belt southwest toward Concord. Many buildings and fences seen throughout these rolling hills were constructed from this metamorphic rock.

Travel through the Uwharrie National Forest and view the Uwharrie Mountains, formed several hundred million years ago by volcanoes. Crops such as corn and winter wheat can be found along the way.