• Meet: in the parking area west of Home Trust Bank, 651 W. Mills St., Columbus; 8:30 a.m.
• Hiking Distance:8 miles round-trip
• Elevation Gain:250 feet
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trail type: Out and back
• Drive time: 1 hour

Hikers will head to a portion of the Mountains to Sea Trail, which runs across the state of North Carolina, to look for spring wildflowers.  The trail weaves through a hardwood forest with a few creek crossings and to the Tanbark Ridge Overlook off the Parkway.  From the overlook, hikers will see extensive mountain views over the Great Balsams.  From Tanbark Ridge, hikers will take the trail to Bull Gap then turn around and head back to the starting point.

For your safety, do not attempt any hike beyond your ability and experience. Hikers should wear appropriate clothing and footwear; bring a bag lunch and/or snack and plenty of water. Please be sure to bring any personal medication that you may require.

In case of inclement weather, please contact Conserving Carolina’s Southeast (Polk County) office by 8:15 on the day of the hike and/or check the Conserving Carolina Facebook page to see if the hike will take place.