Join MountainTrue and local naturalists for a day of exploration and discovery in the heart of the Hickory Nut Gorge. The BioBlitz is a fast-paced communal effort to find and identify as many species of plants, animals, and fungi as possible in a specific area. Whether you’re a seasoned biologist or a curious neighbor, your observations help us better understand and protect the incredible biodiversity of Western North Carolina.
A BioBlitz is part social event, part scientific expedition. Armed with the iNaturalist app and guided by experts like Josh Kelly, we’ll head into the field to document the rare and rugged ecosystems near Gerton, NC.
When: Saturday, June 13, 2026
Where: Hickory Nut Gorge (Near Gerton, NC)
Cost: Free
What to Bring: Comfortable hiking boots, plenty of water, a packed lunch, and a smartphone with the iNaturalist app pre-installed.
Ready to become a citizen scientist? Space is limited to ensure a high-quality experience for all participants and to minimize our impact on the land.
Josh is MountainTrue’s resident expert on the old-growth forests and unique ecosystems of the Southern Blue Ridge. He’ll be on hand to help identify tricky species and explain why the Hickory Nut Gorge is such a vital conservation priority.
