Learn all about the nocturnal animals in Gorges State Park! We will be exploring the trail after dark with flashlights to look for animal eye-shine and to listen for sounds in the night. Stay at the Park Visitor Center after the hike for a small campfire and smores. We will be meeting at the Outdoor...
Join a Ranger on a one mile hike around the site of a prescribed burn at Occoneechee Mountain to learn about prescribed fire, how we use it to improve the ecosystem, and how it can make future wildfires less dangerous. Meet at the Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area parking lot. Wear hiking shoes and bring water;...
Mushroom science, or mycology, is a fascinating subject with a dab of mystery, beauty, and… slime? These hardy forest dwellers aren’t animals, plants, or molds—so what are they? Whether you like mushrooms on your pizza or have been spooked by a fairy ring, kids of all ages will enjoy learning more about fungal science at...
Yancey and Mitchell County Landowners: Are you still wondering what to do with your damaged forest? Come learn from agencies, non-profits and businesses about what resources are available to landowners. Topics Include: • Wildfire Mitigation • Debris Removal and Forest Mulching • Forest Restoration • Non-native Invasive Species Control • Stream Restoration • Landslide Seeding...
Join a Ranger on a one and a half mile hike along Pump Station trail to look for some of the mushrooms that may be springing up around the park. We may find a common one, or something you have never seen before, but either way, this hike will make you more of a fungi!...
Learn about the biology and management of the invasive spotted lanternfly, debunk common myths and gain updates on how human-mediated transport is driving its spread. Experts will share the latest findings on cold tolerance thresholds and their role in assessing the risk of northward expansion.
Join a Park Technician on a guided hike around the Piper Cox House and Buckquarter Creek trail during spring bird migration to look for migratory birds and year-round residents of Eno River. Meet at the Piper-Cox House parking lot, second right past the entry gate. Wear hiking shoes and dress for the weather. Spaces are...
The N.C. Tree Farm Program will hold its 2025 Annual Meeting on April 24 at First Fruits Farm in Louisburg. Register by mail or online by April 14. The Annual Meeting includes a field tour focused on agritourism, pond management, bird and wildlife habitat, and sustained yield forest management. The awards ceremony will recognize our...
FIND Outdoors is excited to host a chainsaw safety course, presented by STIHL. Attendees will learn: The operator’s PPE (What to wear, what not to wear, OSHA requirements and further recommendations) Chainsaw features and functions. (Safety features, how to use, when to use, etc) Basic Operation (How to start, how to hold, how to make...
Join a ranger on a hike on Raymond Fisher Pond Trail to find and identify spring ephemeral wildflowers of Gorges State Park. Be prepared for a 1.6 mile hike and dress for the weather. Meet at Rainbow Falls Trailhead.
