When: April 16, 2025 @ 5:00 pm
Discover the hidden world of lichens
Join our new Conservation Outreach Associate Alina on a spring lichen hike at Yellow Creek Falls in Robbinsville, where we will explore the abundance and diversity of lichens that can be found along this short but adventurous trail. We will discuss the science behind these fascinating critters including what kind of creatures they are, what they eat, how they reproduce, and what they contribute to our forests. Participants will learn some beginner identification tips, as well as how to take close-up photos of lichens using a smartphone and magnifying device! This event is geared towards beginner lichen-likers or those who are looking for a place to start, but is open to nature lovers, hikers, and people all knowledge and skill levels who enjoy moving slowly through the landscape.
We will meet at the trailhead of the Yellow Creek Falls Trail off Tapoco Rd in Robbinsville (11346 Tapoco Rd, Robbinsville, NC 28771) just before 5:00pm on Wednesday, April 16th. See the map below for exact location. This event will run until around 7:00pm, and we will be back at our cars before sunset. The Yellow Creek Falls trail is a fairly short, 0.6 mile out and back trail. It is steep in places, with roots in the trail and large rocks and boulders to traverse, and we will descend down a very steep portion to reach the falls at the end of the trail. We suggest bringing water, a snack, layers, sturdy hiking shoes, hiking poles, a camera phone, and any naturalist tools you may want such as a notebook or a hand lens. Magnifying tools will be available for those without their own. As time allows, we will enjoy a moment at the falls at the end of the hike, including soaking our feet in the water for those courageous enough to brave the cold temperature!
This event is donation-based, with a suggested donation of $15. Donations can be made online (select “Upcoming Event” from the drop-down menu), or through cash or check at the event. Please give what you can; your support allows us to protect the special creatures, plants, landscapes, and heritage of WNC for all to enjoy!
Space is limited, so fill out the form below to register then grab your notebook and prepare for a fun evening of learning about the lichen biodiversity that can be found here in the mountains! This event is weather dependent. Please leave pets at home. Email Alina at [email protected] with any questions.
Meet your teacher
As Mainspring’s Conservation Outreach Associate, Alina Martin aims to encourage the protection and appreciation of land by connecting communities to the birds, plants, mammals, amphibians, and reptiles that share our home here in the Southern Blue Ridge. Her adventures up and down the east coast have introduced her to a wide variety of habitats, and those experiences inspire her to continue nurturing her understanding of wildlife and plant ecology. Armed with her identification knowledge and ever-increasing wonder, Alina leads a variety of educational programs here at Mainspring, and finds something curious and new each time. She is a life-long birder, all-around naturalist, and avid user of eBird and iNaturalist.
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