We’re on springtime mission: We’re looking for wildflowers and birds that put on their seasonal show in May. A few miles east of Asheville, just above the Blue Ridge Parkway, we will follow the Mountains-to-Sea Trail (MST) from Bull Gap up to the historic Rattlesnake Lodge.

More than thirty varieties of flowers are known to live here, including dwarf larkspur, Jack-in-the-pulpit, and blue cohosh to name a few. We’ll also likely encounter, by sight or sound, a number of warblers, vireos, and other birds which have migrated up from central and South America to nest in our mountains.

The hike will take us to the Rattlesnake lodge site, which was built in 1903 as a summer home for Dr. Chase P. Ambler. The Parkway gained the right-of-way in the 1930’s, making it easy for passersby to explore the remains. Learn more by visiting this website: www.rattlesnakelodge.com

This is a moderate 5.2-mile hike on a well-maintained trail which has some climbs, goes through a series of switchbacks and follows an old wagon route.

Hiking (and resting time): approximately 5.5 hours. Moderate level of difficulty with a 550 foot elevation gain. We will go slowly on the climbs, taking in the surroundings, and will take frequent breaks as needed. Bob Gale, MountainTrue’s Ecologist and Public Lands Director, will lead this hike.

Date: Saturday, May 9 2015
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Location: Meet at the Visitor’s Center on the Blue Ridge Parkway, milemarker 384
Cost: Free
Registration Deadline: Friday, May 8 at NOON. All participants must register (Sorry — no dogs allowed, so please leave your furry kids at home!)

Click HERE to Register

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