Nature Walk at Elk Shoals Access

There will be a nature walk at the Elk Shoals Access of the NC New River State Park on Aug. 29 from 8:30-10:30 am. We will identify and enjoy looking at all plants and animals seen. Walk leaders will be Deb Shetterly and Bill Dunson but we will encourage everyone to participate in a group discussion of the ecology of this unique area. The park is in a meander of the S Fork of the New River near W Jefferson and encompasses riparian and ridge habitats. We will hike about two miles along the river and up a paved road with a moderate slope to the ridge top. The road is wide enough for social distancing and everyone MUST wear a mask.

The spectacular Elk Shoals Access is located at 349 Methodist Camp Rd, W Jefferson, NC 28694. From Boone, take US 421 east and turn left on US 221 N in Deep Gap, then turn right on Idlewild Rd and continue to the intersection with NC hwy 163 and turn left. Travel about 5 miles and turn right on Boggs Rd (business on corner) and continue carefully down a very winding road about 1.4 miles to the low water bridge and turn right on Methodist Camp Rd and continue into the park.

From Jefferson take US 221 south to the intersection with NC hwy 163, turn left and continue to Boggs Rd. Turn left on Boggs Rd and continue about 1.4 miles and turn right at the low water bridge.

No reservations are necessary. Rain or shine. No smoking or dogs please. Bring your covid mask and wear it. For further information contact wdunson@comcast.net