Conserving Carolina is co-hosting a hike with Hemlock Restoration Initiative (HRI) 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 Hemlock Restoration Initiative and learn more about their efforts to save and restore our beloved hemlocks.