The annual event attracts outdoors lovers from across the region. Friday has a series of three guided hikes, while Saturday’s lineup features nature experts and their live animals, from wolves to owls to reptiles.
Hikes on Friday, July 16
• Granny Burrell Falls in Panthertown Valley. 3-mile hike led by Friends of Panthertown.
• Whiteside Mountain. Learn about the Cherokee history of the region when over 50 Cherokee towns and settlements were connected by a system of trails used for local trade and long-distance travel. Steep but rewarding climb involved to reach a rock outcrop overlooking the Cashiers Valley and headwaters region of the Chattooga River.
• Green Salamander Adventure. Join Wild South ecologists in search of the elusive, beautiful and endangered Green Salamander during a short exploration at Pleasant Grove and Heady Mountain.
All hikes depart at 10 a.m. from the Sapphire Valley Community Center. Bring lunch and water.
Programs on Saturday, July 17
• Get up close and personal with wolves. Meet the wolves of mountain man Rob Gudger and gain compassion and awareness for the plight of this misunderstood predator.
• Learn how to coexist with black bears with a program by the Appalachian Bear Rescue.
• Take flight with birds of prey. Eagles, hawks, owls and a variety of other birds will be shared by a ranger from Tennessee State Parks.
• Wildlife Warrior Steve O’Neil will have snakes, turtles and other reptiles on hand for his up-close presentation.
For more information, please click here.
Jeff
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