HRI is co-hosting a hike with Conserving Carolina at the Florence Nature Preserve on February 12, 2022. This 4 mile hike will start at 11 a.m. and should take around 5 hours to complete including a break for lunch. We will meet at the Upper Hickory Nut Gorge Trailhead to start the hike. The hike will be at an easy pace, but there will be significant changes in elevation as we loop around the nature preserve property. Large hemlocks will quickly be visible as we climb alongside a small stream, before eventually making it to the top of a ridge with spectacular views across the valley below.
We will discuss Conserving Carolina’s past treatment efforts at the preserve and participants can expect to learn more general info about the preserve and about hemlocks and their conservation.
Be sure to bring water, a lunch, and any snacks you may want. It is likely to be chilly, so bring warm layers as well as gloves and winter hats. A sturdy pair of hiking shoes or boots is recommended; it’s possible there may still be some snow on the ground in places.
This hike is a great opportunity to engage with Conserving Carolina and learn about the preserve and more of their work. Of course, this jaunt through the woods will also be a surefire way to see many beautiful hemlocks and learn more about these spectacular trees. We hope to see you there!
RSVP is required. Please sign up by visiting the registration page for the hike on Conserving Carolina’s website. Email education@savehemlocksnc.org or call 828-252-4783 if you have any questions.