MountainTrue

MountainTrue Earth Day River Clean-up and Plastics Audit near Asheville, NC 4/19
2025-04-19 10:00 - 15:00 (America/New_York) | NC
Come help us celebrate Earth Day as we clean our rivers. In the process, we’ll inventory all the types of plastic we find, creating a database of all the types of plastic litter we see.
Please wear closed-toe shoes, long pants, and long sleeves (and waders if you have them), and bring drinking water, lunch/snacks, and perhaps a change of clothes for afterward in case you get wet or dirty. We will have plenty of trash bags, gloves, safety glasses, and buckets for use, along with some hand tools such as shovels, loppers, hand saws, rakes, etc., however, feel free to bring your own if you would like. We will have our dump trailer there for the removal of collected garbage and recyclables.
LOCATION: The exact location will be emailed to participants closer to the date. (We are waiting to find out where the Army Corps has already cleaned). Thank you for your patience. We expect to be close to the Asheville, NC area.

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Invasive Plant Removal Workday at Little Tennessee Greenway, Franklin, NC 4/19
2025-04-19 13:00 - 16:00 | 803 Ulco drive, TASSEE SHELTER 803 Ulco Drive, Franklin, North Carolina, 28734
MountainTrue, in partnership with the Mainspring Conservation Trust and the Friends of the Greenway (FROGs), is hosting a community volunteer workday to control non-native invasive plants and restore native habitats at the Little Tennessee Greenway in Franklin, NC.
We will primarily be pulling up roots and using hand tools to remove invasive plants like Chinese privet, Autumn Olive, Kudzu and Multiflora Rose.
No prior experience is necessary; we will provide tools and training. Please register in advance so that we will have enough tools, gloves, etc. We have large and small tasks available, so you don’t need to be able to do strenuous physical labor in order to participate. Please leave pets at home.
Please bring:
Closed-toed shoes (required)
Long pants
Long-sleeved shirts recommended
Water
Medications you may need
Let’s work together to improve the wildlife habitat and native plant heath of the Little Tennessee Greenway!
Contact western region program associate Kate Bridgers with any questions (wro-wq-habitat@mountaintrue.org).
RAIN DATE: TBD
SIGN-UP HERE

MountainTrue River Clean-up in Buncombe County, NC 4/22
2025-04-22 10:00 - 14:00 | NC
Help the French Broad Riverkeeper celebrate Earth Day as we clean up the trash left behind by Hurricane Helene in Buncombe County. We will be removing trash and debris along the riparian areas. This is a land-based clean-up.
Please wear closed-toe shoes, long pants, and long sleeves (and waders if you have them), and bring drinking water, lunch/snacks, and perhaps a change of clothes for afterward in case you get wet or dirty. We will have plenty of trash bags, gloves, safety glasses, and buckets for use, along with some hand tools such as shovels, loppers, hand saws, rakes, etc., however, feel free to bring your own if you would like. We will have our dump trailer there for the removal of collected garbage and recyclables.
LOCATION:
We will be in Biltmore Village.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/YivdYBVdktAo4ui76?g_st=ac
Coordinates:
35°34’05.7″N 82°32’33.6″W

Everyone can park in front of the (closed) Ichiban resturant.
2 Hendersonville Rd, Asheville, NC 28803

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Earth Day Riverside Cleanup with Thomas Jefferson Academy near Rutherfordton, NC on 4/22
2025-04-22 15:30 - 17:30 | Public Boating Access on the Broad River at Hwy 221A 35.217227, -81.779467, 35.217227, -81.779467, NC
Join your Broad Riverkeeper and students from Thomas Jefferson Academy for a riverside litter sweep at our newest public river access. North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission has added another public boating access to the Broad River Paddle Trail and we want to give it a good spring cleaning.
Please bring: water, any snacks needed, gloves, sturdy close-toed shoes and be prepared to get dirty.
This event is rain or shine. Youth are welcome as long as they are accompanied by a parent or guardian for the entire duration.
Meet-up location: Public Boating Access on the Broad River at Hwy 221A
35.217227, -81.779467
We appreciate you and the time you spend volunteering to protect the places we love and share. To show our gratitude, we’re offering MountainTrue volunteers a complimentary, one-year membership. To become a member of MountainTrue, simply email members@mountaintrue.org and request a complimentary membership. If you wish to donate to support our work, you can do so here. Thank you for all the work that you do to protect our environment!
Sign-up now!

Black Mountain Parks Clean up with MountainTrue and Black Mountain Recreation & Parks 4/23
2025-04-23 09:00 - 12:00 | NC
Come join the French Broad Riverkeeper and the Black Mountain Recreation and Parks team as we clean up the trash left behind by Hurricane Helene in Buncombe County. We will be removing trash and debris along the riparian areas.Please note this will be a land-based clean-up.
Please wear closed-toe shoes, long pants, and long sleeves, and bring drinking water, snacks, and perhaps a change of clothes for afterward in case you get wet or dirty. We will have plenty of trash bags, gloves, safety glasses, and buckets for use, along with some hand tools such as shovels, loppers, hand saws, rakes, etc., however, feel free to bring your own if you would like. We will have our dump trailer there for the removal of collected garbage and recyclables.
LOCATION: Black Mountain, NC
Kids aged 14 and up are welcome to join as long as supervised by a parent or guardian.

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Hickory Springs Clean-up near Micaville, NC with MountainTrue and Partners 4/27
2025-04-27 13:00 - 16:00 | NC
Join the French Broad Riverkeeper team and our partners, The South Toe Conservation Fund, Rural Reach WNC, Beacon Network, and the South Tote Trash Team as we clean up an area near Micaville, NC. We will work to clean up a stretch of Ayles Creak and other small creeks in the area. This community was hit hard by Hurricane Helene and needs our help to remove trash and debris from the creek and riparian areas.
Kids 14 and up are welcome. A parent or legal guardian must sign their waiver. The parent or legal guardian must be onsite with the minor at all times.
Please wear closed-toe shoes, long pants, and long sleeves (and waders if you have them), and bring drinking water, snacks, and perhaps a change of clothes for afterward in case you get wet or dirty. We will have plenty of trash bags, gloves, safety glasses, and buckets for use, along with some hand tools such as shovels, loppers, hand saws, rakes, etc., however, feel free to bring your own if you would like. We will have our dump trailer there for the removal of collected garbage and recyclables.
LOCATION:455 Hickory Springs Rd, Micaville, NC 2875535.879773, -82.222487We will meet in the gravel lot of Hickory Springs Manufacturing.
To extend our appreciation for MountainTrue volunteers, all volunteers are eligible to receive a complimentary annual membership. To accept your membership, please email members@mountaintrue.org
Our Partners:

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Fly Fishing Film Festival in Boone, NC 4-27 benefiting MountainTrue and the Watauga Riverkeeper
2025-04-27 18:00 - 22:00 | Appalachian Theatre of the High Country, 559 West King Street, Boone, NC, 28607, United States
The 2025 International Fly Fishing Film Festival, sponsored by Boone’s Fly Shop and benefiting MountainTrue and the Watauga Riverkeeper, is coming to the Appalachian Theatre of the High Country on Sunday, April 27th.
IF4™ is the world’s leading fly-fishing film event, consisting of films produced by professional filmmakers from all corners of the globe and showcases the passion, lifestyle, and culture of fly fishing. It is the gathering place of the fly-fishing community and a celebration of friendship, fly-fishing stories and stoke.
This year’s event kicks off with a pre-screening concert performance with Mad Tom & The Chubs from 6 to 7 PM. The film festival film screening begins at 7 PM.
Be sure to snag tickets from The Appalachian Theatre ASAP! Please visit MountainTrue in the lobby for raffle tickets prior to the show. Fly fishing gear like rods and Hellbender swag will be raffled during intermission.
Click here for full event information or to buy tickets.

MountainTrue is the featured nonprofit at One World Brewing in Asheville, NC for the month of May 2025
2025-05-01 08:00 - 2025-05-31 17:00 | One World Brewing, 520 Haywood Rd., Asheville, NC, 28806
Feeling thirsty? Stop on by One World Brewing in Asheville, NC and grab a pint of Ashevegas Pale Ale. MountainTrue will receive $.50 per pour of this special beer during the month of May.
Help support a local business that’s supporting their community. It’s a win, win!

Invasive Plant Workday at Rivers Park House near Boone, NC 5/3
2025-05-03 10:00 - 13:00 | Rivers Park House, 150 Clay House Dr, Boone, NC, 28607
To celebrate the Northern Peaks State Trail coming to Boone, join us for an afternoon of eradicating invasive plants on the property! In partnership with The Town of Boone and Blue Ridge Conservancy, this workday focuses on the history, eradication, and uses of some of the plants we’ll see. As the new southern terminus of the Northern Peaks State Trail (NPST) in downtown Boone, we are excited to revitalize the property and allow native flora to begin finding new life at the site! Flora and fauna expert Will Bennett, our friends from Blue Ridge Conservancy, and Town of Boone folks will be joining us for both workdays. Our main focuses will be garlic mustard and oriental bittersweet.
Thanks to High Country sustainability guru, Becca Nenow, volunteers will have the opportunity to enjoy a special invasive plant themed snack during this workday. Did you know some of our most pesky invasive plants are edible and quite delicious?
Please bring snacks and water. It is recommended to wear long pants and sturdy boots for all invasive plant workdays. Some hand tools will be provided, but if you have your own gardening gloves, loppers, or shears, please bring them!
PARKING: Limited parking is available on-site for those needing accessibility. If you are able, it is recommended to find parking downtown and walk to the site.
Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian for the duration of the workday.

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MountainTrue Post Hurricane Helene Big Hungry clean-up near Flat Rock, NC 5/3
2025-05-03 10:00 - 15:00 | NC
Please join your Green Riverkeeper and MountainTrue’s Cleanup Coordinator to clean up Big Hungry at the confluence of Big Hungry and Green River at the put-in of the Narrows. We will work to remove trash and debris from the banks of Big Hungry. Please note this will be a land-based clean-up, and a hike in is required that is about 3/4 of a mile (so meaning 3/4 of a mile out as well). If you are crossing the riverbed at any point to reach trash on smaller islands, please come dressed to get wet. (You are more than welcome to wear waders if you choose.) This cleanup will require hands-on work in unstable areas, so being able to maneuver around downed debris and tough to reach areas is required. This will be a more strenuous cleanup, so please be prepared.
Please wear closed-toe shoes, long pants, and long sleeves (and waders if you have them), and bring drinking water, lunch/snacks, and perhaps a change of clothes for afterward in case you get wet or dirty. We will have plenty of trash bags, gloves, safety glasses, and buckets for use, along with some hand tools such as shovels, loppers, hand saws, rakes, etc., however, feel free to bring your own if you would like. We will have our dump trailer there for the removal of collected garbage and recyclables.
LOCATION:Green River Fund Access Parking Lot957 Gallimore RdFlat Rock, NC 28731

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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.

Trout Fest and Blowing Rock Trout Derby in Blowing Rock, NC 5/3
2025-05-03 10:00 - 18:00 | The Speckled Trout Outfitters, 916 Main Street, Blowing Rock, NC, 28605
Come visit your local Riverkeeper team and celebrate clean water with us in Blowing Rock. Our team will have a booth at The Speckled Trout Outfitters, ready to talk about water quality, native plants, and conservation efforts in the High Country. Troutfest will be all weekend long from Friday, May 2nd-Sunday, May 4th, and we will be celebrating fishing in the High Country with family-friendly activities, giveaways, friendly competition, great food, great drinks, and great company: https://www.thespeckledtroutoutfitters.com/events/troutfest
Saturday, May 3rd also celebrates the 45th Blowing Rock Trout Derby, highlighting the opening of Trout Season with competition and prizes. Fun for all ages, and the whole family!
Due to the effects of Hurricane Helene, the trout derby is being held a month later than usual to allow the trout population to replenish in local streams and at the local fisheries that support the Trout Derby. The adult portion of the Derby will be catch and release only, again for conservation purposes.
More information will be released soon: https://blowingrock.com/troutderby/

Green Drinks: Localization & Food Crisis (Hendersonville, NC) 5/8
2025-05-08 17:30 - 19:00 | The Grove at Trailside Brewing, 873 Lenox Park Dr, Hendersonville, NC, 28739, United States
The post-World War II of the 40’s and 50’s shifted the food paradigm from local to high-yield crops and grocery stores. Steeped in an economy of convenience, this system provides on-demand food, but has shown devastating impacts on the environment, health, and community. Could a shift back to local be the answer to these 3 top issues faced today?
Join us for a discussion entitled, “Localization; the answer to more than just the environmental crisis?” with Tia Wackerhagen, RN, BSN, Food and Agriculture Committee Co-chair, and member of the Alliance of Nurses for Healthy Environments.
Tia is a registered nurse for Roof Above in Charlotte North Carolina, serving individuals who have recently come out of chronic homelessness. She is passionate about equality not only in health care, but in food systems. To further strengthen this passion, Tia is pursuing her doctorate in nursing practice in family nurse practitioner specialty at East Carolina University. She serves as co-chair for the Alliance for Healthy Nurses food and agriculture committee.
5:30 p.m.: Grab and drink and network with like-minded locals.
6:00 p.m.: Enjoy the presentation and learn something new!
Hendersonville Green Drinks is presented by Conserving Carolina, MountainTrue and Trailside Brewing Co. Come to Green Drinks to learn about current environmental issues, discuss relevant, and meet with like-minded people. This is a monthly event and everyone is welcome. You don’t have to drink at Green Drinks; just come and listen. Trailside Brewing Co. offers beer, wine, cider, prosecco and non-alcoholic beverages. A limited food menu will be available.

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.

Earth Day Wildflower Walk and Garlic Mustard Pull near Hot Springs, NC 5/10 (rescheduled from May 3)
2025-05-10 09:00 - 17:00 | Appalachian National Scenic Trailhead Parking, Del Rio, TN, 37727, United States
Join MountainTrue Biologist Josh Kelly for a 4-mile hike where you will learn about wildflowers, songbirds, and other sights and sounds of the Appalachian Spring. Midway through the hike, the group will stop to pull garlic mustard for two hours and help maintain the native herbaceous diversity in a very rich forest. Wildflowers will be peaking above 4,000′ on this scenic section of the Appalachian Trail. Originally scheduled for May 3rd, this event has been rescheduled to May 10 due to high winds and unsafe conditions.
This is a strenuous hike and participants need to be comfortable walking on steep slopes. Keep in mind this hike will occur above 4,000′ in elevation and it will the 5-10 degrees colder than in the surrounding valleys.
Please remember to bring:Two liters of waterLunchSturdy footwearClothing appropriate for colder weather above 4,000′Rain gear
Carpool Location from Asheville:We will meet to carpool at 9 a.m. at Ingles near Exit 44 on I-40 https://maps.app.goo.gl/WmwcnfdauD1TamiE9We will meet at the Trailhead at 10:15 a.m. https://maps.app.goo.gl/9qjEDkzKPJr3VDEi9

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May Days on the First Broad River Paddle Trail, Delight to Lawndale, NC 5/10-CANCELED
2025-05-10 10:00 - 16:00 | NC
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.

2025 CCA Summit: Faith-Based Organizing & Theological Action in the Wake of Helene near Asheville, NC-POSTPONED
2025-05-17 09:00 - 17:00 | Montreat Conference Center-Anderson Auditorium, 303 Lookout Rd., Montreat, NC, 28757
In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, our faith communities showed up in powerful and beautiful ways — providing comfort, aid, and support during a time of immense need. As we look ahead to healing and long-term resilience, we know that organizing and collective action are essential to building a stronger, more sustainable future for our region.
That’s why we had planned to transform our annual Creation Care Alliance Summit into a Faith and Organizing Summit led by Dr. Timothy Conder and Dr. Dan Rhodes of the Black Mountain School of Theology and Community.
While we remain deeply excited about this training, we have decided to postpone the event as we continue the process of hiring two key staff members: an Organizing Director for MountainTrue and an Organizer for the Creation Care Alliance. We believe these roles are essential to fully supporting our covenant partners and making this training as impactful and meaningful as possible.
We now aim to offer the summit in Winter 2025/2026 and look forward to building something deep and lasting together. (If you want to receive an email notification when the new Summit date has been confirmed, please click here.)
If you purchased a ticket, you may choose to: Receive a full refund or have your ticket fee converted to a tax-deductible donation. Please reply to sydney@mountaintrue.org with your preference.
If you or someone you know is interested in helping build a more just, sustainable, and connected region, please consider applying or sharing the open positions linked below: 👉 View Open Positions at MountainTrue 📬 Questions? Reach out at amy@mountaintrue.org
Thank you for your understanding, your support, and your commitment to this work.

MountainTrue Post Hurricane Helene river clean-up in Buncombe County, NC 5/17
2025-05-17 10:00 - 15:00 | Pearson Bridge River Access, 706 Riverside Dr., Asheville, NC, 28801
Come join the French Broad Riverkeeper as we clean up the trash left behind by Hurricane Helene in Buncombe County. We will be removing trash and debris along the riparian areas as we float down the French Broad River. We will bring boats to transport the trash while others paddle near the banks to pick up debris.**Prior experience with boating is required.
Meet-up LOCATION: Pearson Bridge River Access (located behind Frend Broad Outfitters). 706 Riverside Dr.., Asheville, NC 28801The stretch we will float will be water level dependent, and that call will be made that morning based on conditions.
Boat Info: MountainTrue has 8 spots in canoes if you don’t have your own boat. If you intend to borrow a canoe from Mountain True you must have recent canoe experience and you must email cleanup@mountaintrue.org to reserve a spot in a canoe.**If you bring your own boat please ensure it is functional beforehand. All participants must have a personal flotation device. If you are unsure if you have the appropriate experience, please reach out to cleanup@mountaintrue.org
Please wear closed-toe shoes, weather appropriate attire (including things you don’t mind getting wet). Bring drinking water, lunch/snacks, and perhaps a change of clothes for afterward in case you get wet or dirty. We will have plenty of trash bags, gloves, safety glasses, and buckets for use, along with some hand tools such as shovels, loppers, hand saws, rakes, etc.; however, feel free to bring your own if you would like. We will have our dump trailer there for the removal of collected garbage and recyclables.
To thank you for your time, all volunteers are eligible to receive a complimentary annual membership to MountainTrue. Please email members@mountaintrue.org to request yours.

Register Now!

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.

MountainTrue Post Hurricane Helene river clean-up in Buncombe County, NC 5/22
2025-05-22 10:00 - 14:00 | 119 Thompson Street, 119 Thompson St., Asheville, NC, 28803
Come join the French Broad Riverkeeper as we clean up the trash left behind by Hurricane Helene in Buncombe County. We will be removing trash and debris along the riparian areas upstream and downstream. Please note this will be a land-based cleanup.
Please wear closed-toe shoes, long pants, and long sleeves (and waders if you have them), and bring drinking water, lunch/snacks, and perhaps a change of clothes for afterward in case you get wet or dirty. We will have plenty of trash bags, gloves, safety glasses, and buckets for use, along with some hand tools such as shovels, loppers, hand saws, rakes, etc., however, feel free to bring your own if you would like. We will have our dump trailer there for the removal of collected garbage and recyclables.
Meet-up LOCATION: 119 Thompson St, Asheville, NC 28803 This is an empty lot from a destroyed building on the corner of Thompson St. and Glendale Ave.
To thank you for your time, volunteers are eligible to receive a complimentary annual membership to MountainTrue. Please email members@mountaintrue.org to request yours.

Register Now!

Say hi to MountainTrue at the FREE Fly Fishing Film Screening in Hendersonville, NC 5/22
2025-05-22 18:30 - 21:00 | Trailside Brewing, 873 Lennox Park Dr., Hendersonville, NC, 28739
Say hi to MountainTrue at Trailside Brewing Co. at the FREE Fly Fishing Film screening on Thursday, May 22.

Anglers, outdoor enthusiasts, and adventure seekers are invited to join the tour as it visits cities nationwide, showcasing stunning cinematography, unforgettable stories, and the heart-pounding excitement of fly fishing.
This year’s event promises to be the biggest yet, with a diverse film lineup that highlights remote locations, unique challenges, and the passionate anglers who pursue them.
We’re excited to have Hendersonville Outfitters, a local fly fishing company, as our co-host and emcee, and Mountain True as our local non-profit partner.

What to Expect: A curated selection of films about adventure and fly fishing Drinks from Trailside Brewing & food available for purchase FREE & open to all ages!

An Unforgettable NightThe Fly Fishing Film Tour (F3T) is the original and largest fly fishing film event of its kind. Now in its 19th year, F3T has become a beloved annual tradition for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts across the country. The event provides an opportunity for the fly fishing community to come together, share stories, and experience the best of the sport’s cinematic world.

Along with the films, attendees can look forward to exclusive giveaways and plenty of camaraderie. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or someone new to the sport, F3T offers something for everyone.

Mark your calendar, invite your friends, and come celebrate adventure with us! Let us know you’re coming—we can’t wait to see you on May 22! Doors open at 5:45 p.m., film screening begins at 6:30 p.m.

May Days on the First Broad River Paddle Trail, Zion to Shelby, NC 5/24-CANCELED
2025-05-24 10:00 - 16:00 | NC
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.

Conservation Conversations hosted by MountainTrue in Asheville, NC 5/28
2025-05-28 17:30 - 19:00 | The River Arts District Brewing Company, 13 Mystery Street, Asheville, NC, 28801, United States
Come meet some of the organizations in your community working to recover and conserve the places we love and share. We will have time for socializing and sipping from 5:30 to 6 pm, followed by a block of short presentations from each organization, providing information on current conservation initiatives and how YOU can get involved with these efforts. There will be time for questions at the end.
The RAD Brewing Company has graciously provided use of their upstairs taproom for this event. Please come early to find parking and get settled. (Beer, wine and n/a drinks will be available for purchase from the bar). Master BBQ will have their food truck on site. We hope you will consider supporting this local business!
Come on out and bring a friend or two.

Trail Maintenance Workday with MountainTrue & Carolina Mountain Club near Asheville, NC 5/30
2025-05-30 08:00 - 14:00 | NC
Join MountainTrue and Carolina Mountain Club for a day of trail maintenance work!
Please bring plenty of water, lunch, snacks, and any medications you may need. Wear closed-toed shoes and long pants, and bring a hard hat, eye protection, and work gloves if you have them. We will provide these if you do not have them, as well as any tools necessary for the work.
Children that are able to hike in and out to the worksite are welcome as long as they are accompanied by a parent or guardian.
This will be a moderately strenuous workday that includes hiking to a work site and completing trail maintenance work for a few hours.
Location: the exact location will be emailed to participants the week of May 26th. We will be in the Asheville, NC area.

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Naturalist Rally: Beech Mountain Parks and Recreation in Beech Mountain, NC 5/31
2025-05-31 09:00 - 18:00 | Buckeye Recreation Center, 1330 Pine Ridge Rd, Beech Mountain, NC, 28604, United States
“Come join the call to the wild as we gather to explore Beech Mountain. Geared toward local ecology, the rally will feature hikes, talks & programs all day on Beech Mountain. Join for the adventure, stay for the passion!”
Our High Country Clean Water staff will lead a talk at 10 am about “Riverkeeping 101,” covering everything from pollution investigation, sampling programs, debris removal, dam removal, and more! Programs will be ongoing from 9 am-6 pm throughout the day so come join us!
For more information visit townofbeechmountain.com, call 828-387-3003, or email Matt Robinson at mrobinson@townofbeechmountain.com

French Broad River Clean-Up - Pisgah Forest River Access to Penrose Boating Access Area 5/31
2025-05-31 10:00 - 15:00 | Penrose Boating Access Area, Apac Drive, Pisgah Forest, NC, 28768
Volunteers are invited to help clean up trash with French Broad Paddle Trail Manager, Jack Henderson, and other members of MountainTrue’s French Broad Riverkeeper team.
The clean-up will be boat-based and focus on the French Broad River in Transylvania County between Pisgah Forest River Access and Penrose Boating Access Area.
MountainTrue can provide canoes (with paddles and PFDs) to volunteers with previous paddling experience, but attendees are otherwise requested to bring their own boats. MountainTrue will also provide gloves, trash bags, a dumpster for trash removal, and a shuttle to the put-in at Pisgah Forest River Access.
If you need to borrow a boat from MountainTrue, please use the boat request form. (We have a limited number of boats so you must complete this form to borrow a boat).ALL participants, regardless of whether you are borrowing a boat or bringing your own, must sign-up through the “sign-up” link to ensure we can adhere to safety standards for the maximum number of participants.
Please bring:

PFD if bringing your own boat.
Appropriate clothing and footwear for paddling and cleaning up trash (closed-toed shoes recommended).
Drinking water, snacks, lunch.
Change of clothes for after the event.

Kids under the age of 18 are allowed as long as accompanied by a parent/guardian AND are experienced paddlers.
To thank you for your time, volunteers are eligible to receive a complimentary annual membership to MountainTrue. Please email members@mountaintrue.org to request yours.
This event has been generously-sponsored by Explore Brevard through the Transylvania County TDA’s Transylvania Always grant program. Transylvania Always’ mission is to address the impact of users on the county’s public lands, specifically the safe and enjoyable use of natural resources, and we’re fortunate to have received funding to support our work to clean up the French Broad River.

We are also partnering with Conserving Carolina, a Hendersonville-based land trust servicing Polk, Henderson, and Transylvania counties, and parts of Rutherford and other surrounding counties. Their mission is to protect, restore, and inspire appreciation of the natural world, and we are grateful that their work includes bringing staff and volunteer support to clean-ups and other initiatives that overlap with ours.

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May Days on the First Broad River Paddle Trail, Riverhill to Big Bay, SC 5/31-CANCELED
2025-05-31 10:00 - 17:30 | NC
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.

2025 BANFF Premier Adventure Raffle: Kayak/paddle AND Winner's choice of 3 adventure packages. TICKETS ON SALE NOW!
2025-06-01 09:00 - 2025-09-13 23:59 | NC
🎉 Get ready, Asheville! Not only is the BANFF Centre Mountain Film Festival World Tour coming to town, but MountainTrue is cranking up the heat with the BANFF Premier Adventure Raffle — and tickets are ON SALE NOW! 🚨Want to add some serious adventure to your life? One lucky winner will paddle away with a Moken 10 Lite V2 kayak in Green Flash, a sleek Day Tourer 230 cm paddle in Lime Camo, AND get to pick from 3 epic adventure packages of their choice!
Don’t miss your shot at glory — grab your raffle tickets and get ready to ride the wave of adventure!
Scroll to the bottom to read full raffle guidelines or to purchase tickets.
A BIG THANKS to feelfree Kayaks for their generous donation of the kayak and paddle.

Moken 10 Lite V2 in Green Flash:

AND, Winner’s choice of 3 adventure packages:

Prize Package # 1:
Colorado Front Range Adventure Getaway
3-Night Stay in Colorado with Choice of Cog Railway or Rocky Mountain National Park for 2
This Experience Includes:
Adventure Activity for two
3-night stay in a standard guest room in Colorado Springs or Boulder, Colorado
Winspire booking & concierge service
Reservations are subject to availability, blackout dates, and major holidays.
Prize Package # 2:
Grand Canyon Starry Nights
3-Night Stay at in a Sky Dome with Grand Canyon Sunset Tour for 2
This Experience for 2 Includes:
Grand Canyon Sunset Tour
3-night stay at Clear Sky Resorts in a Sky Dome
Winspire booking & concierge service
Blackout Dates: The week of major US holidays and major local events. Additional dates may apply. This package is available late April – November.
Prize Package # 3:
Snowy Slopes of Jackson Hole
Snowy Slopes of Jackson Hole: Lift Tickets with 3-Night Stay for 2
This Experience for 2 Includes:
3-night stay in a Grand King or 2 Queen room at Alpine House
Daily breakfast
$1000 Jackson Hole Gift Card to purchase lift tickets
Winspire concierge & booking service
This package is available for the months of November, December, January, February, and March.
**These packages do NOT include airfare or transportation.
DEADLINE TO ENTER: Online ticket sales end at 11:59 pm on September 11th, 2025. Unless the 150 tickets have already sold out, tickets will be available to purchase at the BANFF Centre Mountain Film Festival World Tour screenings in Asheville, NC on September 12th and 13th.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Winspire Travel packages and experiences must be booked within one year of the purchase date. The actual travel date must occur within two years of the purchase date. Reservations are subject to availability, blackout dates, and major holidays. Reservations must be booked 60 days in advance of travel. Purchases through charity fundraisers are non-refundable.
Certificates cannot be resold or replaced if lost, stolen, or destroyed. Transportation is the responsibility of the winner unless otherwise stated.
SELECTION AND NOTIFICATION OF WINNER: The Winner will be drawn and notified on September 15, 2025 and will be notified by telephone and/or email. If the potential winner cannot be reached after 10 days from the first notification attempt, or if an entrant is found to be ineligible, or a prize notification is returned as undeliverable, such prize will be forfeited, and an alternate winner will be selected by random drawing.
ELIGIBILITY: Present employees and board directors of MountainTrue and any immediate family members residing with the employees are not eligible to participate. Must be 18 years or older to enter. Contest void where prohibited.
Ticket purchases are non-refundable and are not tax-deductible. By entering the raffle, participants agree that MountainTrue, its agents and employees have no liability whatsoever for any injuries, losses, or damages of any kind which result from the date of award. The prize is non-transferable, and cannot be exchanged for cash. MountainTrue may use winner’s name and likeness for publicity purposes without further compensation. MountainTrue is not responsible for any failure of communication or failure of the Internet or its website. MountainTrue reserves the right to modify these rules and will give prompt announcement of any rule changes. All decisions of MountainTrue are final and binding in all matters related to this raffle.

MountainTrue Riverkeeper Beer Series Clean-up with New Belgium 6/7
2025-06-07 13:00 - 17:00 | New Belgium Brewing Company, 21 Craven St, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Our region’s rivers were heavily impacted by Hurricane Helene, and with breweries playing a key role in our tourism economy, MountainTrue, the French Broad Riverkeeper, and New Belgium are teaming up to help restore our waterways.
Join us on June 7 for a river cleanup! We’ll head out for an on-the-water cleanup, then return to the brewery to celebrate with beer and prizes.
MountainTrue can provide a spot in a boat for 20 people but we encourage folks to bring their own boats to clean-up. Please make sure you bring a PFD if you bring your own boat. **To borrow a boat from MountainTrue, please click here).
All participants, regardless of whether you are borrowing a boat or bringing your own, MUST pre-register so we can adhere to safety standards.
Meet-up location and shuttling info will be emailed to participants the week before the event.
All volunteers are eligible to receive a complimentary annual membership to MountainTrue. Please email members@mountaintrue.org to request yours!
Kids under the age of 18 are welcome as long as accompanied by a parent or guardian AND they feel comfortable in a boat for several hours.
A HUGE thank you to New Belgium, Eno and Recover brands for sponsoring this event!

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MountainTrue Riverkeeper Beer Series Clean-up in Hot Springs, NC with Big Pillow Brewing 6/8
2025-06-08 13:00 - 17:00 | Big Pillow Brewing, 25 Andrews Ave N, Hot Springs, NC, 28743
Calling all paddlers! Our region’s rivers were heavily impacted by Hurricane Helene, and with breweries playing a key role in our tourism economy, MountainTrue, the French Broad Riverkeeper, and Big Pillow Brewing are teaming up to help restore our waterways.
Join us on June 8 for a river cleanup! We’ll head out for an on-the-water cleanup on the whitewater section 9 of the French Broad River.
We will meet at NOC and Blue Heron, and shuttle to Barnard, then have a shuttle back from Stackhouse. The after party will be at Big Pillow, with prizes and shirts for the weird and wild trash.
We encourage you to bring your own boat and PFD. (MountainTrue can provide boat spots for only 12 people but we have loads of space for folks bringing their own boats). Please click here to reserve your spot in a MountainTrue boat.
All participants (whether bringing your own boat or borrowing) MUST pre-register to ensure we can adhere to safety standards.
All volunteers are eligible to receive a complimentary annual membership to MountainTrue. Please email members@mountaintrue.org to request yours!
Kids under the age of 18 are welcome as long as they are accompanied by a parent or guardian AND they feel comfortable in a boat for several hours.
A HUGE thank you to Big Pillow Brewing, Eno and Recover brands for sponsoring this event!

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