Broad River Fall Float near Shelby, NC
2023-10-21 09:30 - 16:00 (America/New_York) | Broad River Greenway Canoe Access, 126 Broad River Drive, Shelby, NC, 28152, United States
Join Broad Riverkeeper David Caldwell for a fall float along the Broad River. We will be paddling a beautiful and remote stretch of the Broad that few people get to paddle and enjoy! The first half of the trip will have some fun, easy class I and II rapids. The second half of this section is in slow-moving and still water, so we will need to paddle some (not just float) to reach the takeout on time. It is about a 4 to 5-hour trip. If interested we invite you to bring a fishing pole and some binoculars on this trip! There will be opportunities to fish and see wildlife!
The rain date for this event will be October 28th. Please reserve both dates on your calendar to ensure you can attend. If you have any questions about this trip please contact our Broad Riverkeeper via email at david@mountaintrue.org.

Woody Ethnobotany Walk near Weaverville, NC
2023-10-28 12:30 - 17:00 | Herb Mountain Farm
Ethnobiologist Marc Williams has taught hundreds of classes to thousands of people about plants, humans, other life forms and their interface. His training includes a B.A. in Environmental Studies/Sustainable Agriculture from Warren Wilson College with a minor in Business and a M.A. in Appalachian Studies/Sustainable Development from Appalachian State University with a minor in Planning/Geography. He has over 20 years of experiences working at various restaurants, farms, and travels throughout 30 countries in Central/North/South America, Europe and all 50 states in the USA. More information can be found at www.botanyeveryday.com and www.plantsandhealers.org. The elevation change on this hike will be 500 feet or less.
Come learn more about the food, medicine and craft uses of woody plants. We will take a walk and practice ways to systematically identify trees, shrubs and vines by their bark, ecotypes, flowers, fruit and growing conditions. Common and obscure sustainable uses for woody plants that may support overall health, well-being and sustenance will also be discussed. The connection between woody plants and other lifeforms such as birds, butterflies and fungal species will be an additional topic of conversation. The possible use of exotic invasive woodies as one potential means of control will round out our discussion.

Old Growth Forest Hike near Barnardsville, NC
2023-11-11 10:00 - 16:00 | Asheville US Forest Service Office, 160 Zillicoa St # A, Asheville, NC, 28801, United States
This hike will explore an old-growth, high elevation oak forest in the proposed Craggy Mountain National Scenic Area. The hike will be partially off trail, traverse steep, rocky terrain, and be very strenuous. During the hike we will discuss tree identification, forest ecology, and traits of old-growth forests, among other topics. There will be 1,000 to 1,500 vertical feet of elevation change on this hike, please keep that in mind when signing up.
This hike will take place on Coxcombe Mountain but we will meet as a group at the Asheville US Forest Service Office before the hike to carpool. There is very limited parking so carpooling will be essential for this trip.

Hike to Standing Indian Mountain near Hayesville, NC-CANCELLED
2023-12-03 13:00 - 16:00 | Deep Gap Trailhead Parking, Franklin, NC, 28734, United States
Due to the Collett Ridge Fire and the lack of rain in the forecast, the air quality is poor and not expected to improve before the hike. Sadly we are canceling this hike but we hope you can join us for another outing soon!
We’ll use Deep Gap Rd before it closes for the season (Jan 2) to access the Appalachian Trail for a 5-mile round trip out-and-back hike to Standing Indian Mountain, elevation 5,439′. It’s a gentle incline all the way up with only 1,095′ of elevation gain over 2.5 miles. There are gorgeous views from the top, especially in December when all the leaves are off the trees!

First Day Hike in the Brasstown Wilderness near Young Harris, GA
2024-01-01 10:00 - 14:00 | Miller Trek Trailhead, Young Harris, GA, 30582, United States
Join MountainTrue’s Western Regional director on the first day of the New Year for a moderate 6-mile loop hike in the Brasstown Wilderness. The trail climbs at a consistent rate of 500 ft/mile for almost three miles, skirting around Rocky Knob where we’ll take a short spur trail out to some rock outcrops for lunch and amazing views of both Hiawassee and Young Harris. The rest of the hike descends almost at the same rate it ascended, passing through beautiful mature forests on the way back to the trailhead. There is nothing particularly challenging about this hike. It’s rated moderate for the length and elevation gain of about 1,500′.

Winter Tree ID Hike-LOCATION CHANGE
2024-03-07 12:00 - 16:00
We have learned that the Parkway is closed in the stretch where the Flatrock Loop Trail is, so we are making a last-minute location change.

Updated location: Bull Gap on the the Blue Ridge Parkway

Park at the gate. This section of trail is surprisingly diverse and even offers some long-range views. We will meet at noon and return to our vehicles by 4 p.m.

Do you want to improve your ability to identify trees in all seasons? Winter is the time to do that! On this hike we will be treated to an afternoon in an ancient oak forest and views from a granitic outcrop. Along the way, participants will learn both basic and advanced techniques for tree identification. We will also discuss forest ecology, wildlife habitat, and more.
This hike is moderately strenuous and open to all knowledge levels. Children are welcome if they can hike up to 3 miles. All participants under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian for the duration of the outing.
Please bring:
*Sturdy hiking shoes
*Clothes/layers appropriate for the weather
*Snacks
*Rain Gear
*At least 1 liter of water
We love our four-legged friends but pets are not permitted on this hike.

Winter Bird Watch around Lake Chatuge near Hayesville, NC 3/9/2024-CANCELED DUE to WEATHER
2024-03-09 07:30 - 09:30 | Chatuge Dam, 1407 Chatuge Dam Rd, Hayesville, NC, 28904, United States
There is a 90% chance of rain on Saturday, March 9th so we must cancel this event. We hope to reschedule this at a later date.
MountainTrue is hosting the 18th Annual Winter Bird Watch outing around Lake Chatuge! Participants will meet at Chatuge Dam and carpool/caravan to various sites around the lake. Typically 18-25 different species of birds are observed on the outing, ranging from small songbirds to larger birds of prey and wintering waterfowl associated with more northern climes (like loons!).
Retired Young Harris College professor and former Hiwassee River Watershed Coalition board member Brenda Hull will again lead the outing. A spotting scope is provided for up-close views, but participants should still bring binoculars and a favorite bird identification guide, if they have them.
Kids ages 8 & up are welcome but anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times.
What to bring:
Binoculars and bird guides if you have them
Water and snacks if desired
Warm layers (there is usually a breeze by the lake).
**As much as we love our furry friends, pets are not permitted on this outing.
Join us to learn more about our feathered winter visitors!

Additional Resources for your reference:
Birdwatching for Beginners: How to Start Birding

https://www.audubon.org/birding/how-to-start-birding

Green River Cove Wildflower Walk near Saluda, NC with MountainTrue and Hemlock Restoration Initiative
2024-03-17 12:30 - 17:00 | Fishtop Access, 2302 Green River Cove, Saluda, North Carolina, 28773
Enjoy a guided hike with MountainTrue Biologist Josh Kelly and Olivia Hall from The Hemlock Restoration Initiative (HRI) at one of the earliest blooming wildflower sites in Western North Carolina.
The moderate, four-mile hike will include information on wildflower identification, tree identification, and forest ecology. Join us as we discuss the importance of hemlocks and Hemlock Woolley Adelgid Management across the game land, including the Paddlers Hemlock Health Action Taskforce (PHHAT) treatment program, a partnership between HRI and the MountainTrue Green Riverkeeper.
Children are welcome as long as they can walk or be carried up to 4 miles. Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian for the duration of the outing.
Please remember to bring:
Water
Snacks
Raingear
Sturdy footwear
Clothing comfortable for the weather
And a notebook if you wish to document any information
Feeling thirsty after the hike OR can’t attend the hike but want to gather? Join your fellow hikers, supporters and MountainTrue staff at the Green River Brew Depot for a casual hang from 5:30-6:30 pm.
The rain date for this event is March 24th. Please make sure to save both dates in your calendar just in case.

Spring Wildflower Hike near Shelby, NC 4-12
2024-04-12 10:30 - 14:30 | Broad River Greenway Canoe Access, 126 Broad River Drive, Shelby, NC, 28152, United States
Join our MountainTrue Broad Riverkeeper, David Caldwell, as we explore the downstream trail at our Broad River Greenway. David will discuss the value and concerns associated with the Broad River along the way.
Meeting location is the Broad River Greenway main parking lot beside the Ranger Station and bathrooms at 10:30 sharp.
This out and back hike is approximately 5 miles with almost no elevation change, although the terrain is rugged. Children are welcome on this hike if they can hike 5 miles.
Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian for the entire duration of the hike.
While we love our furry friends, please no dogs on this hike.
Please bring:

Appropriate outerwear
Sturdy hiking shoes or boots
Water
Lunch and snacks
Walking stick (if you have one)

The rain date for this event is April 19th. Please hold both dates in your calendar.

Guided River Snorkel near Sugar Grove, NC 4/23 CANCELED
2024-04-23 14:00 - 16:30 | Rominger Gravel Road Pull-off, 36.238482, -81.823214
Due to chilly weather, we unfortunately must cancel our planned snorkel. Please view the calendar for other upcoming snorkel adventures.
Join our High Country Water Team in exploring aquatic wildlife in the Watauga River. We will get up close and personal with many native fish species, such as the tangerine darter. Using view buckets, we can see under the water’s surface and observe the life teeming below.
This is an excellent opportunity to learn about aquatic ecosystems, and what makes the Watauga River truly unique. Our staff will provide viewbuckets, identification books, and a wealth of regional knowledge.
Important: *Option to rent a wetsuit and snorkel for a fully immersive experience at an additional cost*.
If you would like to rent a wetsuit and snorkel gear, be sure to purchase both a ticket and the additional ticket for rental gear ($40).
**Please also indicate what size wetsuit you will need based on the sizing chart linked here.
Children aged 5 and up are welcome to attend if accompanied by a parent or guardian for the entire duration of the outing.
Meet-up Coordinates: Rominger Road Gravel Pull-Off (36.238482, -81.823214)
Please remember to bring: Water, snacks, towel, and change of clothes

Headwaters Fun Float near Lawndale, NC
2024-06-08 10:00 - 15:00 | NC Wildlife Resources Commission boat launch, 4933 Casar Road, Polkville, NC, 28136
We are heading up to the South Mountain foothills for a fun paddle on the cool, shady waters of the First Broad River. Just downstream from the South Mountain Game Lands and one of our few Outstanding Resource Waters, this is some of the cleanest and life-filled water in the Broad River basin. The water is likely to be pretty shallow and “bony”, that is, we will be scraping and dragging over quite a few rocks and gravel beds.
Meet up at the brand new NC Wildlife Resources Commission boat launch (NC 10 PFA, 4933 Casar Road) at 10:00 am sharp! We will unload boats and gear, then take all of the vehicles to the take-out spot and shuttle back to begin paddling.
Please bring:

your boat
paddle
lifejacket (PFD)
water
lunch
sunscreen
sturdy water shoes or sneakers (no flip-flops)
towel
dry change of clothes

We have a limited number of boat rentals available for an add-on fee (4 available) so reserve your spot early.
**If you are renting a boat, please call David at 704-300-5069 to confirm PFD (life jacket) size.
For safety reasons, this event is limited to participants aged 18 and older.
The rain date for this event will be June 22nd so please hold both days on your calendar.

Waterkeepers Carolina Paddle Parade with MountainTrue in Boone, NC
2024-06-22 09:30 - 12:30 | Boone Skate Park, 200 Casey Ln, Boone, NC, 28607
Throughout the last week of June, Waterkeepers Carolina has made a uniform effort to get folks on the water with their Riverkeeper. This FREE float will be featured by Waterkeepers Carolina, MountainTrue, and Conservation Network! Come out and enjoy a beautiful day of celebrating community, clean water, and the beauty of the High Country.
The float should be around 3 hours total, with around a 20-minute shuttle back to the cars.
You can bring your own boat (and lifejacket) or rent a boat from MountainTrue but hurry, we have a limited number of available boats.
Children aged 5 and up are welcome to attend as long as they are with a parent/guardian for the duration of the outing. All skill levels of paddling are welcome.
Please remember to bring: Water, lunch, snacks, sunscreen, towel & change of clothes for after and your life jacket if you are bringing your own boat.
Rain Date: June 29th. Please reserve both dates on your calendar to ensure attendance.

Snorkel the French Broad River's Headwaters in Rosman, NC
2024-06-22 10:00 - 14:00 | Champion’s Park River Access, Champion Park's River Access - 39 Old Turnpike Rd, Rosman, NC, 28772
Join MountainTrue staff and partners for a guided snorkeling experience on the French Broad River’s headwaters at Champion Park in Rosman, NC. Come immerse yourself amongst the vibrant and diverse aquatic life calling the cold, clear, waters of the upper French Broad home. Our guides will be Luke Etchison – Western Region Aquatic Wildlife Diversity Coordinator with the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission and Kevin Merrill – Owner & Biologist with Oxbow River Snorkeling.
Luke and Kevin have intimate knowledge of the fish, reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates on this particular site and within Western North Carolina in general. You’ll learn about what you’re seeing, the conservation and preservation efforts occurring to help protect these species and their habitats, and other regional water quality and outdoor recreation projects happening throughout the watershed.
Masks, snorkels, wetsuits, and booties can be rented through our partnership with Mountains to Seas. If you rent equipment, please make sure to complete ALL of the sizing fields for each ticketed guest to ensure we get the correct size for wetsuits and booties.
Due to the sensitivity of the site and the capacity of our guides, we will be limiting this adventure to two separate two-hour time slots with no more than ten people each.
The first tour starts at 10:00 AM and the second tour at 12:00 PM.
Please Note that snorkeling tours like this one are at the mercy of Mother Nature. High water velocity and poor visibility following a heavy rain event may create conditions unfavorable for this activity to continue as planned. If this occurs for our scheduled date, we will unfortunately need to cancel and refund any expenses.
Register:
**If the ticket type or timeslot that you need are not available please contact amy@mountaintrue.org for assistance or to be put on the waitlist. Registration will close on June 14th.
Register for the 10am tour
Register for the 12pm tour

Guided River Snorkel near Sugar Grove, NC 8/16
2024-08-16 14:00 - 16:30 | Watauga Upper Gorge Access, 2531 Old Watauga River Rd, Sugar Grove, NC, 28679, United States
Join our High Country Water Team in exploring aquatic wildlife in the Watauga River. We will get up close and personal with many native fish species, such as the tangerine darter. Using view buckets, we can see under the water’s surface and observe the life teeming below.
This is an excellent opportunity to learn about aquatic ecosystems, and what makes the Watauga River truly unique. Our staff will provide viewbuckets, identification books, and a wealth of regional knowledge.
Important: *Option to rent a wetsuit and snorkel for a fully immersive experience at an additional cost*.
If you would like to rent a wetsuit and snorkel gear, be sure to purchase both a ticket and the additional ticket for rental gear ($40).
**Please also indicate what size wetsuit you will need based on the sizing chart linked here.
Children aged 5 and up are welcome to attend if accompanied by a parent or guardian for the entire duration of the outing.
Meet-up Coordinates: 321 Upper Gorge Park (36.25481006839172, -81.84969156997231)
Please remember to bring: Water, snacks, towel, and change of clothes

Watauga Tailwaters Guided Paddle near Johnson City, TN 9/20
2024-09-20 11:00 - 15:00 | Blevins Boat Ramp, Blevins, Johnson City, TN, 37601, United States
Join MountainTrue’s Riverkeeper water team staff on a guided tailwater float on the Watauga River. Some of our best MountainTrue river experts have teamed up to spend the Friday afternoon on the water with you!
You can bring your own boat (and lifejacket) or rent a boat from MountainTrue but hurry, we have a limited number of available boats.
Children aged 5 and up are welcome to attend as long as they are with a parent/guardian for the duration of the outing. All skill levels of paddling are welcome.
We will meet at Blevins Boat Ramp and provide a shuttle and boats.
Please remember to bring: Water, lunch, snacks, sunscreen, towel & change of clothes for after and your life jacket if you are bringing your own boat.
Rain Date: October 4th. Please reserve both dates on your calendar to ensure attendance.

**CANCELED**Urban Ebike Tour of Asheville 10/5
2024-10-05 09:00 - 12:00 | The Flying Bike Tours, 1 River Arts Pl, Asheville, NC, 28801
DUE TO THE AFTERMATH OF HURRICANE HELENE, THIS EVENT IS CANCELED FOR OCT 5.
Join MountainTrue as we team up with The Flying Bike to take out a fleet of electric bikes! We’ll start in the River Arts District and make our way downtown, where Chris Joyell, Healthy Communities Director, will share his extensive knowledge about Asheville’s urban core, including stories of how redlining has shaped our city, the infamous Pit of Despair and plans for the I-26 Connector. We will frequently stop to hear from Chris about the history of development in these areas and what the future might look like in these places.
Following the bike tour, attendees are invited to join Chris for a casual member hangout at the nearby RAD Brewing (13 Mystery Street). Those who could not make the bike tour are invited to join us for an adult beverage at noon. (The Rad Brewing Co. will have beer, wine and non-alcoholic beverages for sale).
The bike rental includes a helmet, and the bikes have a basket with a waterproof cover to store your belongings while riding. We encourage folks to bring water and snacks, wear close-toed shoes, and dress appropriately for the weather (sunscreen, raincoat, sunglasses/hat, etc.).
We do recommend that folks have prior experience riding a bike, the transition from a normal bike to an electric one is easy, but they do require some knowledge of how to ride. If you’re not in professional biker shape, don’t worry! Electric bikes are much easier to ride than normal bikes. Uphills are a breeze!
The rain date for this event will be October 12th. Please reserve both dates on your calendar to ensure that you can accommodate any changes in our plans.
Huge thanks to our friends at The Flying Bike for helping make this tour possible.

**CANCELED** Whitewater River Hike in Cashiers, NC
2024-10-05 10:00 - 16:00 | Forest Service Road 88, 35°02'30.1"N 83°03'46.2"W
DUE TO THE AFTERMATH OF HURRICANE HELENE, THIS EVENT IS CANCELED FOR OCT 5.
Visit the Whitewater Special Interest Area which is renowned for it’s unique flora and wildlife. The Forest Service attempted to log 15 acres of the Special Interest Area as part of the Southside Project but MountainTrue and our partners took legal action and won.
The hike will be 4-6 miles and will follow a gated Forest Service road for most of the length. The last portion of the hike will be on steep, uneven ground with no trail. The hike will proceed unless heavy rains or wind are in the forecast.
*Children are welcome if they can hike up to 6 miles without assistance. Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian for the duration of the outing. Well behaved, leashed dogs are welcome on the hike.
Please remember to:
-Wear sturdy hiking shoes and long pants.
-Bring water, lunch, snacks and any medications you may need
Carpooling details will be sent when you register but there will be carpools from Asheville and Cashiers, NC.

**CANCELED** Craggy National Scenic Area Hike near Asheville, NC
2024-10-11 10:00 - 16:00 | Big Butt Trail, 59700 Blue Ridge Parkway, Black Mountain, NC, 28711
DUE TO THE AFTERMATH OF HURRICANE HELENE, THIS EVENT IS CANCELED FOR OCT 11.
Congressman Chuck Edwards has the opportunity to make history by creating North Carolina’s first National Scenic Area, an idea which has broad local support. Come hike the Big Butt Trail with MountainTrue Biologist Josh Kelly and experience the beautiful forests, views, flora, and fauna of the Craggy Mountains.
The hike will be strenuous and will proceed unless heavy rains or wind are in the forecast.
*Children are welcome if they can hike up to 6 strenuous miles. Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian for the duration of the outing.

As much as we love our furry friends, no pets are permitted on this hike.
Please remember to:
-Wear sturdy hiking shoes and clothing appropriate for the weather (including rain gear).
-Bring water, lunch, snacks and any medications you may need
Carpool from Asheville will meet at 9:15 at The Folk Art Center.
Photo courtesy of Steven McBride.

Broad River Fall Float near Shelby, NC 10/12--CANCELED
2024-10-12 10:00 - 16:00 | Broad River Greenway Canoe Access, 126 Broad River Drive, Shelby, NC, 28152, United States
DUE TO THE CATASTROPHIC EVENTS RECENTLY IN WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA, THIS EVENT IS CANCELED. MOUNTAINTRUE IS FOCUSED ON RECOVERY EFFORTS. STAY TUNED FOR HOW YOU CAN HELP. Join Broad Riverkeeper David Caldwell for a fall float along the Broad River. We will be paddling a beautiful and remote stretch of the Broad that few people get to paddle and enjoy! The first half of the trip will have some fun, easy class I and II rapids. The second half of this section is in slow-moving and still water, so we will need to paddle some (not just float) to reach the takeout on time. It is about a 4 to 5-hour trip.
Because of the rapids on this section of the river, all participants must be 18 and older and comfortable in a boat.
Please bring: your boat, paddle, and lifejacket, water, lunch, snacks sunscreen, sturdy water shoes or sneakers (no flip-flops), and a dry change of clothes. If you want to enjoy the scenery, you are encouraged to bring binoculars as well.
If you reserve a boat, please call David at 704-300-5069 to confirm PFD (life jacket) size.
The RAIN DATE is October 19th. Please reserve both dates on your calendar.

First Day Hike to the Wesser Bald Fire Tower via the Appalachian Trail near Nantahala, NC
2025-01-01 13:00 - 15:00 | Tellico Gap Trailhead Parking, Aquone, NC, 28781
Join Western Regional Director Callie Moore for a winter hike on the first day of the new year! This 2.3-mile loop is considered moderately challenging; however, avid hikers would likely consider it easy. There are 748 feet of elevation gain over the first 1.3 miles and then descending the same amount over the last mile of the hike. At the top, we’ll have a stunning 360-degree view across Nantahala National Forest from the platform of a historic fire tower.
Dogs are welcome, but must be kept on leash.
Meet-up location:
Tellico Gap Trailhead Parking, Aquone, NC 28781 35.2770536,-83.5876857
Please bring (if desired): Water, Hiking Stick/Pole, Warm layers, Close-toed shoes, Sunscreen

Winter Tree ID Hike at the Jackson County Greenway in Cullowhee, NC
2025-02-08 13:00 - 16:00 | Jackson County Greenway, 342 Old Cullowhee Rd, Sylva, North Carolina, 28779
Learn how to identify trees in the winter with Western Region Program Coordinator, Tony Ward. The Jackson County Greenway offers a paved, relatively flat walk and features a wide diversity of native trees perfect for identification! During this walk in the woods along the Tuckasegee River, we will discuss the different ways that you can identify trees in your area. This hike is open to all skill levels of tree identifiers. Registration is required.
Although we love our furry friends, please no pets on this outing.
In the event of inclement weather, this outing will be held on Saturday, February 15th at 1pm.

Winter Bird Watch on Lake Chatuge near Hayesville, NC
2025-02-15 08:00 - 10:00 | Chatuge Dam, 1407 Chatuge Dam Rd, Hayesville, NC 28904, 1407 Chatuge Dam Rd,, Hayesville, NC, 28904
Join other MountainTrue folks in our 17th annual caravan around the Lake Chatuge shoreline to view a wide variety of birds. Typically, 18-25 different species are observed on the outing, ranging from small songbirds to larger birds of prey and wintering waterfowl typically associated with more northern climes (e.g. loons!). Retired Young Harris College professor and MountainTrue member, Brenda Hull will lead the bird watch again this year. A spotting scope is provided for up-close views, but participants should still bring binoculars and a favorite bird identification guide, if they have them. Please leave pets at home for this outing.
Registration is required.
In the event of inclement weather, this outing will be held on Saturday, February 22nd.

Help Memorialize the old-growth forest at Brushy Mountain near Cashiers, NC 3/22-CANCELED
2025-03-22 10:00 - 16:00 | The Village Green Playground, 71 US-64, Cashiers, NC, 28717
The top of Brushy Mountain had a very old forest that MountainTrue unsuccessfully tried to protect from a logging project by Nantahala National Forest. The site was logged in the fall of 2024. We are seeking volunteers to help document the age of the trees by counting rings on cut stumps. This information will be compiled in a report that we will use to memorialize the forest and raise awareness of the value of old growth.
Children are welcome if they can hike 4 strenuous miles and are accompanied by a parent or guardian for the duration of the outing. This is a strenuous hike. As much as we love our furry friends, pets are not allowed.
Meet-up location:
We will meet in Cashiers at the Village Green at 10 a.m. https://maps.app.goo.gl/hydHoEXYBMczpwt38 Then we will carpool to Brushy Mountain. We will be back to Cashiers by 4.
This event has regretfully been canceled.
Please bring: Water, Sturdy Hiking Shoes, Hiking Stick/Pole, Warm layers, Snacks/Lunch

MountainTrue Spring Wildflower & Headwaters Hike in Bostic, NC 4/4-CANCELED
2025-04-04 10:00 - 15:00 | Golden Valley Community Club, 127 Jonestown Rd, Bostic, NC, 28018
We regret that this event has been canceled. Join your Broad Riverkeeper, David Caldwell, and MountainTrue’s Resilient Forest Director, Josh Kelly, for a half-day hike up one of the Old CC Roads in the South Mountains. These roads were originally built in the 1930s as Civilian Conservation Corps projects during the Great Depression. They now lie in the 21,000 acre South Mountain Game Lands.
We’ll speak about the importance of maintaining these pristine headwaters of the First Broad River, which is Cleveland County’s drinking water supply. Josh will discuss our Forest programs and help us identify flora and fauna.
Meetup is at 10 am sharp at the Golden Valley Communtiy Center: 35.517449, -81.755543
We will then carpool into the remote Game Lands for our hike.
This is a fairly strenuous hike of about 5 miles and 1000 feet of elevation gain.
While we love our furry friends and kids, please no dogs or children on this hike.
Please bring:

Appropriate outerwear
Sturdy hiking shoes or boots
Water
Lunch and snacks
Walking stick (if you have one)

May Day Floats on the Broad River: Casar to Delight 5/3 (Polkville, NC)-CANCELED
2025-05-03 10:00 - 16:00 | NC Wildlife Resources Commission boat launch, 4933 Casar Road, Polkville, NC, 28136
Broad Riverkeeper is sad to announce that all May Saturdays Guided Outings will have to be postponed indefinitely. We just learned that contractors, hired by Cleveland County to remove Hurricane debris from the First Broad River, will be working in the entire 50 miles of the waterway over the next few months. We scouted and cleared the first three sections that we had planned for outings. But we don’t have a schedule from the contractors to know when and where they will be working. New potentially dangerous obstacles may be created as the work continues. We recommend that paddlers stay off the First Broad River until we know more as the work progresses. Stay safe! Contact David, your Broad Riverkeeper, david@mountaintrue.org if you have questions.
Join your Broad Riverkeeper in the South Mountain Foothills for a fun paddle on the cool shady waters of the First Broad River. Just downstream from the South Mountain Game Lands and one of our few Outstanding Resource Waters, this is some of the cleanest and life-filled water in the Broad River basin.
Meet up at the brand new NC Wildlife Resources Commission boat launch (NC 10 PFA, 4933 Casar Road) at 10:00 am sharp! We will unload boats and gear, then take all the vehicles to the take-out spot and shuttle back to begin paddling. This section is approximately 5 miles. We will be on the water for about 3.5 hours, including a stop for lunch.
Please bring your boat, paddle, and lifejacket (PFD), water, lunch, sunscreen, sturdy water shoes or sneakers (no flip-flops), towel and a dry change of clothes.
* we have some kayaks available to rent, max. 4 rentals
If you reserve a boat, please call David at 704-300-5069 to confirm PFD (life jacket) size.
The RAIN DATE is May 4th. Please reserve both dates on your calendar.

Nature Yoga & Forest Bathing in Highlands, NC 5/9
2025-05-09 13:00 - 16:00 | Dixon Woods Park, Dixon Woods Park, Highlands, NC, 28741
In partnership with Highlands-Cashier Land Trust, join MountainTrue for a rejuvenating experience of nature yoga and forest bathing. Everyone is welcome, regardless of skill level. Immerse yourself in gentle yoga movements surrounded by nature and unwind in the serene forest. It’s a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature, relax, and be in community with others.
Please leave pets at home.
Please Bring:
– Comfortable walking shoes
– Yoga mat (we cannot provide additional mats)
– Water (and snacks for yourself)
– Any medication you might need

Registration is required, limited spots available.

May Days on the First Broad River Paddle Trail, Delight to Lawndale, NC 5/10-CANCELED
2025-05-10 10:00 - 16:00
Broad Riverkeeper is sad to announce that all May Saturdays Guided Outings will have to be postponed indefinitely. We just learned that contractors, hired by Cleveland County to remove Hurricane debris from the First Broad River, will be working in the entire 50 miles of the waterway over the next few months. We scouted and cleared the first three sections that we had planned for outings. But we don’t have a schedule from the contractors to know when and where they will be working. New potentially dangerous obstacles may be created as the work continues. We recommend that paddlers stay off the First Broad River until we know more as the work progresses. Stay safe! Contact David, your Broad Riverkeeper, david@mountaintrue.org if you have questions.
Join your Broad Riverkeeper for another Saturday on the First Broad River. This section of the river is wider and sandier than upstream as the river transitions from the Foothills into the Piedmont.
Meet up at another brand new NC Wildlife Resources Commission boat launch (Delight Road PFA, Polkville, NC) at 10:00 am sharp! We will unload the boats and gear, then take all the vehicles to the take-out spot and shuttle back to begin paddling. This section is approximately 7 miles. We will be on the water for about 4.5 hours, including a stop for lunch. The takeout will be at our new Lawndale Park, part of the Stagecoach Greenway https://stagecoachgreenway.com/
Meetup: NCWRC Public Fishing Access on Delight Road
coordinates: 35.442687, -81.615058
Please bring your boat, paddle, lifejacket (PFD), water, lunch, sunscreen, sturdy water shoes or sneakers (no flip-flops), towel and a dry change of clothes.
* we have some kayaks available to rent, max. 4 rentals
If you reserve a boat, please call David at 704-300-5069 to confirm PFD (life jacket) size.
The RAIN DATE is May 11th. Please reserve both dates on your calendar.
Kids aged 12 and up are welcome as long as they are accompanied by a parent/guardian for the duration of the outing.

May Days on the First Broad River Paddle Trail, Double Shoals to Zion, NC 5/17-CANCELED
2025-05-17 10:00 - 16:00 | Double Shoals Mill, 199 Old Mill Rd., Shelby, NC, 28150, United States
Broad Riverkeeper is sad to announce that all May Saturdays Guided Outings will have to be postponed indefinitely. We just learned that contractors, hired by Cleveland County to remove Hurricane debris from the First Broad River, will be working in the entire 50 miles of the waterway over the next few months. We scouted and cleared the first three sections that we had planned for outings. But we don’t have a schedule from the contractors to know when and where they will be working. New potentially dangerous obstacles may be created as the work continues. We recommend that paddlers stay off the First Broad River until we know more as the work progresses. Stay safe! Contact David, your Broad Riverkeeper, david@mountaintrue.org if you have questions.
The third consecutive Saturday in May on the First Broad River with your Broad Riverkeeper. This section of river has long been a favorite for locals. The owner of Double Shoals Cotton Mill has permitted us for the last 12 years to access the river at the beautiful and historic site. This part of the river has many beautiful rock outcroppings and fun little rapids.
Meet up right behind the mill at 10:00 am sharp! We will unload the boats and gear, then take all the vehicles to the take-out spot and shuttle back to begin paddling. This section is approximately 6 miles. We will be on the water for about 4 hours, including a stop for lunch.
meetup: behind Double Shoals Cotton Mill, 199 Old Mill Rd, Shelby, NC 28150
coordinates: 35.381143, -81.545053
Please bring your boat, paddle, lifejacket (PFD), water, lunch, sunscreen, sturdy water shoes or sneakers (no flip-flops), towel and a dry change of clothes.
* we have some kayaks available to rent, max. 4 rentals
If you reserve a boat, please call David at 704-300-5069 to confirm PFD (life jacket) size.
Kids aged 12 and up are welcome as long as they are accompanied by a parent/guardian for the duration of the outing.

May Days on the First Broad River Paddle Trail, Zion to Shelby, NC 5/24-CANCELED
2025-05-24 10:00 - 16:00
Broad Riverkeeper is sad to announce that all May Saturdays Guided Outings will have to be postponed indefinitely. We just learned that contractors, hired by Cleveland County to remove Hurricane debris from the First Broad River, will be working in the entire 50 miles of the waterway over the next few months. We scouted and cleared the first three sections that we had planned for outings. But we don’t have a schedule from the contractors to know when and where they will be working. New potentially dangerous obstacles may be created as the work continues. We recommend that paddlers stay off the First Broad River until we know more as the work progresses. Stay safe! Contact David, your Broad Riverkeeper, david@mountaintrue.org if you have questions.
Making our way out of the Foothills countryside and into the city. The put in spot is privately owned by the Pentecostal Church. They have been very generous in allowing access for Broad Riverkeeper special outings and events, including 9 years of the annual Sarah Sweep! Shelby folks who see this river from a boat often comment that they had no idea of the river’s beauty here, a real wilderness just outside the city.
Meet in the Church’s lower parking lot at 10:00 am sharp! We will unload boats and gear, then take all the vehicles to the take-out spot and shuttle back to begin paddling. This section is approximately 6.5 miles and includes a difficult portage around Shelby’s water intake dam. We will be on the water for about 5 hours, including a stop for lunch.
Meetup: Pentecostal Apostolic Church, 125 W Zion Church Rd, Shelby, NC 28150
Coordinates: 35.345901, -81.545462
Please bring your boat, paddle, lifejacket (PFD), water, lunch, sunscreen, sturdy water shoes or sneakers (no flip-flops), towel and a dry change of clothes.
* we have some kayaks available to rent, max. 4 rentals
If you reserve a boat, please call David at 704-300-5069 to confirm PFD (life jacket) size.
Please no children on this section of the river.

May Days on the First Broad River Paddle Trail, Riverhill to Big Bay, SC 5/31-CANCELED
2025-05-31 10:00 - 17:30
Broad Riverkeeper is sad to announce that all May Saturdays Guided Outings will have to be postponed indefinitely. We just learned that contractors, hired by Cleveland County to remove Hurricane debris from the First Broad River, will be working in the entire 50 miles of the waterway over the next few months. We scouted and cleared the first three sections that we had planned for outings. But we don’t have a schedule from the contractors to know when and where they will be working. New potentially dangerous obstacles may be created as the work continues. We recommend that paddlers stay off the First Broad River until we know more as the work progresses. Stay safe! Contact David, your Broad Riverkeeper, david@mountaintrue.org if you have questions.
5th Saturday in May, join your Broad Riverkeeper for a special peek at the final section of the First Broad River as it makes its way to the confluence with the “Big” Broad. The put in is on private property. We are accessing with special permission.
Meet beside the bridge on Riverhill Drive at 10:00 am sharp! We will unload boats and gear, then take all the vehicles to the take-out spot and shuttle back to begin paddling. This section is approximately 9.5 miles (3.5 miles on the First Broad and 6 on the Broad). The river slows down as we near Big Bay, so be prepared to paddle for the final 2 miles. We will be on the water for about 6 hours, including a stop for lunch.
Meetup: northwest side of Riverhill Drive bridge 1724 Riverhill Drive, Shelby, NC
Coordinates: 35.218253, -81.608052
Please bring your boat, paddle, lifejacket (PFD), water, lunch, sunscreen, sturdy water shoes or sneakers (no flip-flops), towel and a dry change of clothes.
* we have some kayaks available to rent, max. 4 rentals
If you reserve a boat, please call David at 704-300-5069 to confirm PFD (life jacket) size.
Please no children on this section of the river.
The RAIN DATE for this is June 1st. Please save both dates in your calendar.
