Multitudes of Wildflowers on a 2-Part Guided Walk near High Falls with the Oconee Bell Chapter
You are invited to join us for a two part guided walk as we explore a trail and witness a stunning display of North Carolina wildflowers bursting into bloom, with vibrant reds and soft pinks carpeting the landscape. Take your time, soaking in the beauty and capturing photos. Walking sticks are encouraged for added stability.
WHEN: April 13, Monday, 11 am – 3:00 pm. We’re doing this hike on a Monday because this spot is popular for good reason—it’s close to both Cashiers and Western Carolina University, making it a frequent destination for locals and visitors alike.
WHAT: Guided hike in two parts, bring-your-own camera, walking sticks and a picnic lunch.
We’ll meander down a gentle slope among wildflowers, then return to some creekside rocks at the beautiful Shoal Creek bridge below a cascade where we’ll take a break to enjoy lunch in this breathtaking setting. Be sure to pack water and a replenishing lunch snack. Plan for a two-part hike: part 1 starts at 2840 ft altitude and follows a gentle sloping trail for an elevation loss of less than 90 feet over a distance of a quarter mile. Part 2 (after lunch) is a bit more challenging with a trailhead at 3,500 ft altitude and an elevation drop of 260 ft along less than a half mile of trail, but steep portions have stairs and a handrail. We’ll spend about 1 1/2 hours focused on the wildflowers at each of the two places for a leisurely 3-hours of guided meandering. You won’t want to rush this glorious display of nature!
Let’s celebrate spring together with our native wildflowers!
Please REGISTER at the link below so that we will know how many to expect.
Meander among the Trillium with Connie Thompson
DIRECTIONS:
From Cashiers, NC:
Park at the Pines Recreation Area to meet us at 11 am on Monday April 13. The address for parking is 1966 Pine Creek Rd, Cullowee, NC 28723.
Head north on NC-107 from Cashiers for about 7 miles.
Turn left onto Pine Creek Road.
Continue on Pine Creek Road for approximately 2 miles.
The parking lot will be on your right just past the dam.
There are two parts to this outing. Part 1 starts with a car pool to Shoal Creek Mountain Road. Parking is limited to only the right shoulder of the narrow gravel Shoal Creek Mountain Road.
Park and meet us at 11 am in the parking lot for Pine Creek Recreation Area and high falls trail entrance. The address for parking is 1966 Pine Creek Rd, Cullowee, NC 28723
