When: March 8, 2025 @ 10:00 am
Join a Nantahala National Forest Botanist for this special opportunity to see one of our earliest and rarest spring wildflowers
Back by popular demand, a pilgrimage to see the uncommon Harbinger-of-Spring (Erigenia bulbosa) in bloom! Nantahala F.S. Botanist Maria Dunlavey will lead us on an adventure to see this delicate little flower, which has only been recorded in two places in North Carolina and is visible for just a few short weeks before it fades away to await the next spring. Though Harbinger-of-Spring is the star of this show (if our timing is right, we should see blankets of its snowflake-esque blooms!), we’ll admire a variety of other botanical delights along the way including toadshade trilliums, walking ferns, Bishop’s caps, and whatever else we may encounter.
Because of the rarity of Harbinger-of-Spring, participants are asked to refrain from sharing georeferenced photos or otherwise publicizing the location of the plant.
This event is donation-based, suggested donation is $10. No one will be turned away for lack of funds, but please give what you can. Your support allows us to protect the special creatures, plants, landscapes, and heritage of WNC for all to enjoy! Donations can be made online (select “upcoming event” from the dropdown box), or by cash or check at the event.
This hike is approximately 3.6 miles round trip and will take about 4 hours. The first 0.2 miles are on the AT at a moderately intense grade (mostly staircase), with the remainder of the hike on Forest Service roadbeds at gentle grades. Total elevation gain is about 500 feet. We suggest bringing water, warm layers, sturdy hiking shoes, sun protection, a snack and lunch, any anything else you need to be comfortable outside for the duration of this event.
We will meet near the Fontana Marina in Graham County just before 10am. We hope to be back at the trailhead by 2pm. In the days leading up to the event, you will receive an email detailing where to park to meet the hike leaders. Fill out the form below to register, and email Skye with any questions. This event is weather-dependent. Please leave pets at home
Below are some of the beauties we saw during this hike in 2023! Left to right; Harbinger-of-Spring, Dutchman’s Breeches, Red Toadshade Trillium, Bishop’s Cap, Yellow Toadshade Trillium, Wood Anemone
Please treat your registration as a formal ticket. Read this event description thoroughly and ensure that the date, time, and location work for your schedule. We monitor event sign-ups, and restrict group size to provide you with a quality experience out in the woods with us. If you register and can no longer attend, email Skye at [email protected]. Thank you!
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