Due to the current health pandemic, all Conserving Carolina events are cancelled through May 15th.

Where: Florence Nature Preserve

Meet: Columbus, Food Lion parking area, east side, @ 8:30

4.2-miles, moderate; trail type – lollipop

Located on 600 acres protected by Conserving Carolina, this hike begins with a gradual ascent of Little Mount Pisgah, paralleling a stream for part of the way. Hikers will enjoy a pristine creeks and cascades, scenic rock outcrops, the ruins of an old homesite, areas of old growth forest and a short out and back to Rattlesnake Rock which provides a scenic view of the Hickory Nut Gorge area.

This preserve is home to many special plants and wildlife, from pink and yellow ladyslippers to rare salamanders. With any luck, wildflowers and wildlife on this hike as they rejoice the emergence of spring!

Contact [email protected] with additional questions.

Conserving Carolina is sponsoring a Friday hiking series this fall, free, guided, and open to the public. The hikes will meet at various locations (noted for each date) and will leave promptly at 8:45 a.m. Hikers should plan to return to the area in the late afternoon, time varying with group size, distance of hike, and drive time. Car-pooling will be organized at the meeting locations. If you’re coming from an area closer to the trailhead, please contact Pam Torlina (email above and number below) to make other meeting arrangements.

Be sure to wear appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear. Bring a bag lunch and/or snack and plenty of water for yourself. In case of inclement weather, call the Conserving Carolina office, ext. 300, before 8:15 a.m. on the date of the hike, and/or check our Facebook page and calendar. Please also remember to bring any medication that you may need in the event of an emergency (ie: epinephrine, nitroglycerine, insulin, etc.). Hike leaders will carry a first aid kit; however, it may not contain specific medication for your individual needs.

Before each hike, you will be asked to sign a waiver form. For your safety, do not attempt any hike beyond your ability and experience. This schedule is subject to change.

This event is in partnership with WNC for the Planet. To find out more visit WNCforthePlanet.org.

WNC for the Planet is a collective of local environmental organizations that provides access to service, educational, and recreational opportunities in recognition of Earth Month in April. We strive to unify our community to encourage and celebrate environmental stewardship for our planet and the region.